**Background**
Transketolase is a key enzyme involved in the non-oxidative phase of the pentose phosphate pathway, playing a critical role in carbon metabolism and the synthesis of precursors for nucleic acids and amino acids in plants. Because of its essential role in plant growth and development, transketolase has become a significant target for the development of novel herbicides. Effective weed control is vital for maximizing the yield of staple crops, such as maize and wheat, which often suffer from competition with invasive weed species. Developing inhibitors that can selectively target weed transketolase while remaining safe for crop plants is a primary goal in agricultural science. In this context, we will introduce a potent transketolase inhibitor – Transketolase-IN-1.
**Definition**
Transketolase-IN-1 is a thioether-containing 1,2,4-triazole Schiff base that acts as a transketolase inhibitor and herbicide. According to the Transketolase-IN-1 description, this compound is designed to inhibit weed growth while exhibiting safety for maize and wheat at specified application rates.
**In Vitro Studies**
The Transketolase-IN-1 biological activity has been demonstrated through targeted molecular docking and growth inhibition assays. In terms of molecular interaction, Transketolase-IN-1 binds to Arabidopsis thaliana transketolase (At TK) with a binding free energy of 9.5 kcal/mol, forming favorable short-distance interactions within the enzyme’s active cavity that contribute to its potent inhibitory activity. Regarding Transketolase-IN-1 in vitro performance, the compound (100 mg/L; 7 days) exhibits >90% growth inhibition against the roots of Digitaria sanguinalis and Amaranthus retroflexus. Furthermore, strong inhibition of stem growth was observed at both concentrations in these species. These results indicate that the compound can effectively suppress the proliferation of common weeds. In conclusion, Transketolase-IN-1 is a potent transketolase inhibitor that holds promise for the research of weed control in wheat and maize fields.
Keywords
Transketolase-IN-1, 2763650-87-7, Transketolase, Inhibitor, inhibitor, inhibit
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