“Genetic code reprogramming that Revolutionizes the discovery processes of peptide drug leads”

Hiroaki Suga, PhD
Professor, Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science
The University of Tokyo, Japan

ZOOM

REGISTRATION REQUIRED: https://umich.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_PBHPayAvR8WobaSf3z0AUA

ABSTRACT: Macrocyclic peptides possess a number of pharmacological characteristics distinct from other well-established therapeutic molecular classes, resulting in a versatile drug modality with a unique profile of advantages. Macrocyclic peptides are accessible by not only chemical synthesis but also ribosomal synthesis. Particularly, recent inventions of the genetic code reprogramming integrated with an in vitro display format, referred to as RaPID (Random non-standard Peptides Integrated Discovery) system, have enabled us to screen mass libraries (>1 trillion members) of non-standard peptides containing multiple non-proteinogenic amino acids, giving unique properties of peptides distinct from conventional peptides, e.g. greater proteolytic stability, higher affinity (low nM to sub nM dissociation constants similar to antibodies), and superior pharmacokinetics. The field is rapidly growing evidenced by increasing interests from industrial sectors, including small start-ups as well as mega-pharmas, toward drug development efforts on macrocyclic peptides, which has led to several de novo discovered peptides entering clinical trials. This lecture discusses the aforementioned screening technology involving the method of “genetic code reprogramming” powered by flexizymes, and several showcases of therapeutic potentials of macrocyclic peptides

Join us for a Journal club to prepare for Dr Suga’s seminar
September 24 @ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
ZOOM LINK: https://umich.zoom.us/j/93910966695
Publication to review:“Ribosomal Formation of Thioamide Bonds in Polypeptide Synthesis” Rumit Maini, Hiroyuki Kimura, Ryo Takatsuji, Takayuki Katoh, Yuki Goto, and Hiroaki Suga https://pubs.acs.org/doi/pdf/10.1021/jacs.9b11097

RESEARCH INTERESTS: In the Suga lab, our aim is to utilize organic chemistry techniques in combination with biology to tackle yet unresolved questions. In our inclusive research, we procure scientific knowledge leading to new concepts and develop novel technologies with broad applicability, which can extend to drug discovery. We provide a diligent and cooperative research environment with a goal of nurturing individuals so they are brimming with innovation and global-mindedness.