Chemical and biological dynamics of natural pterins

Pteridine compounds are heterocyclic compounds that contribute to various processes in living organisms. Pterin is a representative derivative, and its analogs are widely used in biological systems. The two imine bonds within the pteridine ring confer electron donor-acceptor properties, and the oxidized form exhibits fluorescence because of its π-conjugated system. Owing to these structural and electronic features, pterins perform a variety of physiological functions, including serving as cofactors, pigments, and signaling molecules. To date, studies on the dynamics of pterins have been conducted independently from chemical and biochemical perspectives; thus, the resulting knowledge has not been sufficiently systematized. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the dynamics of naturally occurring pterins by systematically integrating existing chemical and biochemical data.