In collaboration with Professor Qiuling Song's group from the College of Chemistry at Fuzhou University, We has developed a metal-free, alkynyl boron platform for the modular synthesis of stereodefined allylamines. Published in Nature Synthesis, this innovative method leverages a 1,2-migration strategy to expand nitrogen-containing chemical space, empowering late-stage drug functionalization and enriching the VAST™ Virtual Compound Library.
ERAP1 plays a critical role in immune evasion by trimming antigenic peptides. Learn about the mechanism of action of ERAP1 in antigen processing and the structural optimization steps behind GSK’s breakthrough allosteric inhibitor, GSK235.
While STAT3 has long been considered a challenging therapeutic target, it remains an exceptionally attractive one for drug discovery. In this article, we examine the rational design and optimization of SD-2301, a potent VHL-recruiting STAT3 PROTAC degrader developed by Prof. Shaomeng Wang’s group. Discover how linker tuning, E3 ligand and STAT3 ligand optimization yielded a highly selective degrader capable of driving complete, long-lasting in vivo tumor regression with a single intravenous dose.
The tert-butyl group is a commonly employed lipophilic substituent in drug design, yet its susceptibility to cytochrome P450-mediated oxidative metabolism represents a significant pharmacokinetic liability. This article reviews practical bioisosteric strategies for replacing the tert-butyl group to improve metabolic stability while retaining target binding affinity. Two approaches are discussed in detail: (1) the Cp-CF₃ group, a cyclopropane-based bioisostere that eliminates all sp³ C–H bonds and has been validated across multiple scaffolds, including a finasteride analog with a near-doubled HLM half-life; and (2) selective CH₃-to-CF₃ substitution, exemplified by the lead optimization campaign that transformed a PI3Kα inhibitor into Alpelisib, an approved anticancer agent with markedly improved in vivo clearance and oral bioavailability. Together, these case studies illustrate how rational modification of the tert-butyl group can effectively address metabolic liabilities in small-molecule drug candidates.
Novel visible-light radical C-SuFEx ligation constructs C-S bonds from S(VI)-F, enrich sulfur building block library & expand VAST virtual compound library for drug discovery.
This article explores the rise of the oxetane ring - a tiny four-membered heterocycle that has transitioned from a synthetic avoided zone to an indispensable powerhouse tool for lead optimization.
In June 2025, Arvinas and Pfizer submitted the NDA for Vepdegestrant (ARV-471) — the world’s first PROTAC drug to reach this milestone. Targeted Protein Degradation (TPD) is no longer just a promising concept; it has officially entered the commercialization phase. This article breaks down the science behind PROTACs, explains the three critical molecular modules (E3 ligase ligand + Linker + Warhead), and reveals how AiFChem’s 200,000+ in-stock building blocks — including CRBN/VHL ligands, quinazoline-2,4-dione warheads, and diverse linker precursors — can dramatically accelerate your PROTAC discovery pipeline. Read on to discover ready-to-use catalog numbers and practical R&D tips for your next degrader program.
While extracellular checkpoints have transformed oncology, diacylglycerol kinases (DGKα/ζ) represent the next frontier as critical "intracellular brakes." This article traces DGK R&D from its 1980s origins to modern medicinal chemistry breakthroughs by leaders like Incyte and BMS. We examine the optimization of 2-purinone-based inhibitors—using "magic methyls" and scaffold hopping—to develop lead compounds like INCB191358. A central focus is the pivotal challenge of contemporary DGK development: balancing robust T-cell activation with the transient pharmacokinetic exposure necessary to prevent systemic autoimmunity.
Discover 5 core classes of building blocks in drug discovery, including Boronic Acids, Click Chemistry Reagents, and BCP. AiFChem offers 1.3M+ in-stock compounds to accelerate your R&D.
Explore the breakthrough discovery and clinical success of daraxonrasib (RMC-6236), a first-in-class, oral RAS(ON) multi-selective inhibitor. This technical deep-dive covers the medicinal chemistry journey from macrocyclic scaffolds to the landmark RASolute 302 Phase 3 results in metastatic PDAC. Learn how the shift from "off-state" targeting to active-state tri-complex inhibition is transforming the treatment landscape for RAS-addicted cancers.
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