Drug Targets

This article highlights the properties of an attractive drug target, outlines the approaches used to identify targets, and discusses the key steps involved in target validation and the benefits and challenges of using siRNA to validate targets.

Being able to accurately predict drug–target interactions (DTIs) and drug–target binding affinity (DTBA) is crucial in early drug development and during drug repurposing endeavors. Here, we look at some recent research developments in this space.

In the development of a therapeutic pharmaceutical agent, it is crucial to understand the on- and off-target effects the molecule may have within the body. Cyclica's Ligand Express® is a cloud-based platform that screens small-molecule drugs against structurally-characterized proteins, or "proteomes" to determine polypharmacological profiles. We spoke with Naheed Kurji, President & CEO, and Andreas Windemuth, Chief Science Officer, from Cyclica to find out more.

This article highlights some of the different screening strategies used during drug discovery. Key advances and challenges associated with the techniques are also discussed.