The specific implementation of this technology is to identify and develop small molecule activators of AMP activated protein kinase to treat type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
The technology employed is in an interrelated series of in-vitro and cell-based protein kinase and cell metabolism assays that allow for the rapid filtering of the numerous hits that are routinely identified in most types of high throughput screening campaigns, particularly those seeking to develop activators of protein kinases.
Through its proprietary screening platform, Mercury Therapeutics (MTI) has identified multiple small molecule chemotypes that potently activate AMP activated protein kinase (AMPK) directly in vitro as well as in cultured cells. MTI is in the process of applying for patent protection on these novel core structures and simultaneously initiating preclinical studies on these lead series.
Joseph Avruch, chairman of the MTI scientific advisory board, said: “MTI’s focus on developing a direct orally available AMPK activator to treat T2DM and insulin resistance represents a novel and important new approach that could substantially improve the effective management of blood glucose levels without the need for insulin injections, with an added crucial benefit of improving blood lipid profiles.”