Discovery on Target 2017 - PROTACs: The Chemical Equivalent of CRISPR

CHI interviews Dr. Craig Crews, Professor of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Chemistry and Pharmacology at Yale University. Dr. Crews tells the story of the birth and evolution of PROTACs, provides commentary on preclinical challenges, and provides his outlook for continued development. Discussion and Questions Include: • The ability to target components of the Ubiquitin Proteasome System with bifunctional PROTACs molecules has recently generated significant interest within the drug discovery community. Can you share with us a bit about the history and progression of this new mode of drug action? • There are several commercial entities currently working on a new generation of bifunctional molecules, including Arvinas, a biotech you’ve founded. Can you discuss some of the current challenges surrounding this approach during pre-clinical development? • You are chairing a session and giving a keynote address during the upcoming Targeting the Ubiquitin Proteasome System conference, September 26-27 in Boston. Can you share with us a bit on what you hope to convey during the session and keynote lecture? • We would like your opinion on the future of PROTACs – which appears to be very promising. We’ve talked about some of the current challenges, but can you share with us how you are working to address and overcome these challenges for continued development? For more information, please visit http://www.DiscoveryOnTarget.com/Ubiquitin-Proteasome/