Oncology Drug Discovery: Novel Approaches To Drug Discovery

The human genome contains approximately 30,000 genes. Of these, 6,000+ sites are estimated to have potential pharmacological targets. Of these, less than 400 proteins have been confirmed as drug targets (some of which are deemed “undruggable”). When you consider polygenic diseases, there is an infinite number of permutations of genes that could contribute to the pathogenesis of these diseases. Furthermore, a series of high-profile publications over the last 2 years have shown that mutations in the Dark Genome (non-coding region of genomic DNA) have an epigenetic effect that can drive oncogenesis. Therefore, we have only just begun to map the universe of possible drug targets. Here, we seek to go beyond traditional methods by engaging with industry leaders to discuss their past and present approaches to target identification and drug discovery in the Oncology space.