Identification of novel chemokine receptor inhibitors for anti-cancer therapy

Activation of human CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) and 7 (CXCR7) is a key signaling axis regulating growth, tumor-related angiogenesis and metastasis of many types of cancer. In consequence, these receptors are currently very attractive targets for cancer therapy. In addition, CXCR4 is a major receptor mediating HIV infection and AIDS pathogenesis. We possess a unique set of ~500 structurally diverse and novel compounds (small molecules) designed to target CXCR4 and/or CXCR7. We want to evaluate their capacity to specifically inhibit chemokine-induced signaling pathways by using our portfolio of drug discovery cellular assays that includes G-protein dependent functional assays and integrative assays (e.g. impedance, cell migration). Our aim is to deliver lead compounds for further pre-clinical development that will have significant impact on future therapy in various disease areas with special focus on immuno-oncology.

Keywords:chemokine

Disciplines:Microbiology, Systems biology, Laboratory medicine