CellCentric featured in Nature Biotechnology

A new review of second generation epigenetic targets highlights CellCentric as a key leader in a field which is becoming a strategic research and development imperative for many pharmaceutical companies.

CellCentric, the biotechnology company unlocking epigenetic control mechanisms, has a differentiated approach to identifying unexploited epigenetic targets, prioritising them and accelerating associated drug discovery programmes. This arises from privileged access and interactions with over 30 leading research labs working in the field.

Initial drug discovery interest relating to epigenetics has been focused on DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) and histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors. A new review in Nature Biotechnology summarises the progress that has been made on identifying and developing second generation targets, that hold the promise of enhanced specificity and improved therapeutic utility. CellCentric is highlighted as a key player in this space.

To selectivity and beyond
George S. Mack
Nature Biotechnology, Volume: 28, Pages: 1259–1266, year 2010
DOI: doi:10.1038/nbt.1724, Published online 07 Dec 2010
Link: www.nature.com/nbt/journal/v28/n12/full/nbt.1724.h… (subscription required)

For further information contact:
Nessa Carey, Scientific Director, CellCentric Tel: + 44 (0) 1799 531 130

Epigenetics

Epigenetics concerns the processes that help govern chromatin structure and function, by which cell fate is controlled. This is an emerging field that is leading to a series of novel approaches to intractable diseases, including cancer. DNA methyltransferase and histone deacetylase inhibitors have pioneered the therapeutic potential of the space, but it is clear that there are many other targets associated with epigenetics that could have real clinical impact.

About CellCentric

CellCentric is an innovation company focused on epigenetics. The company’s business model, based on a global network of tied leading researchers, gives CellCentric the greatest chance of success in delivering the next wave of epigenetic opportunities. The company identifies novel targets that it prioritises and takes into early drug discovery, as well as novel tools for analysing epigenetic candidates.

Currently CellCentric is running small molecule discovery programmes on multiple novel targets that have been prioritised from a wide pool of candidates identified through disclosures from Principal Investigators in its network. Targets include histone methyltransferases and demethylases, and epigenetic enzymes that act via ubiquitin. Each programme benefits from on-going input from the leading researchers in the field.

CellCentric was founded in 2004 with Prof Azim Surani of the University of Cambridge.