Drug Discovery Platforms Cooperation Division

Outline

The increased availability of genomic sequence information has already allowed the identification of numerous novel drug targets. The next challenge lies in developing new technology and assays, to further expand and exploit available genomic information obtained from basic research, and begin translational programs that will lead towards actual application and patient treatment. Academic drug discovery has become a world-wide movement at universities and research institutions, in response to which the RIKEN launched the Drug Discovery and Medical Technology Platforms (DMP). Capitalizing on RIKEN’s excellent track record in basic science and technology, including a vast library of bioactive natural products, state of the art equipment for high throughput screening (HTS), and medicinal chemistry for hit-to-lead and lead optimization, our division aims at making innovative contributions to the academic drug discovery effort.