Efficient algorithm for conformational search of macrocyclic molecules

A new algorithm, complementarity, is developed for conformational search of macrocyclic molecules. The algorithm scans a large number of candidate conformations and energy-minimizes only the promising ones. These candidates can be generated by two operators that construct new conformations from known minima. The candidates have similar bonded-interaction energy as the known minima and possibly lower nonbonded interaction energy. This algorithm is 9 to 11 times faster than the existing methods when tested on two large rings, cycloheptadecane and rifamycin SV. (C) 1997 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.