A new study of both computer-created and natural proteins suggests that the number of unique pockets – sites where small molecule pharmaceutical compounds can bind to proteins – is surprisingly small, meaning drug side effects may be impossible to avoid. The study also found that the fundamental biochemical processes needed for life could have been enabled by the simple physics of protein folding.
21 May, 2013
Scientists at the Texas Biomedical Research Institute have identified four genes in baboons that influence levels of “bad” cholesterol. This discovery could lead to the development of new drugs to reduce the risk of heart disease.
17 May, 2013
In a landmark cancer study published online in Nature, researchers at NYU School of Medicine have unraveled a longstanding mystery about how pancreatic tumor cells feed themselves, opening up new therapeutic possibilities for a notoriously lethal disease with few treatment options. Pancreatic cancer kills nearly 38,000 Americans annually, making it a leading cause of cancer death. The life expectancy for most people diagnosed with it is less than a year.
15 May, 2013
Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are remarkably versatile protein molecules with numerous applications in human health. More than 30 mAb therapeutics have been approved for marketing and approximately 360 mAbs are currently in clinical studies, with 30 in pivotal trials. The indications of these studies are diverse and include autoimmune disorders, solid and hematological cancers, and infectious diseases. In the preclinical arena, understanding mAb interactions with their targets is also vital to vaccine design. This Drug Discovery Today Editor’s Choice newsletter provides timely reviews on the utility of antibodies as therapeutics and approaches to mAb/antigen interaction studies that aid in vaccine development.
14 May, 2013
The latest issue of Drug Discovery Today is packed full of industry focused research articles, new developments in drug discovery, and expert comment and opinion.
13 May, 2013
You know that summer is here when juicy red strawberries start to appear on the shelves. In Germany, this seasonal fruit has never been more popular: on average 3.5 kilos per head were consumed in 2012 – a full kilogram more than ten years ago. Scientists from the Technische Universität München (TUM) decided to find out what gives strawberries their characteristic flavor.
13 May, 2013
How do researchers know whether new molecules will have a positive or negative effect? How much does the technique for moving a liquid affect the results? What about testing compounds for their environmental or health impacts: Is one liquid handling process better than another when it comes to accuracy of the data?
04 May, 2013
10% upper limit of bodyweight loss sufficient to determine maximum-tolerated dose
03 May, 2013
A new genetic profiling laboratory that will pioneer a quick and cost-effective new tumour test will give doctors a better chance of identifying the right treatment for UK cancer patients and increase access to clinical trials for the latest therapies.
02 May, 2013
Candidates will benefit from MRC Technology’s technology transfer knowledge and experience
01 May, 2013