The ubiquitin-proteasome, lysosome and autophagy systems are all well-controlled, selective degradation pathways that are key cellular regulators in cancer, CNS and other diseases. A new generation of hetero bi-functional chimeras and small molecule monovalent degraders are being developed to hijack these systems for targeted protein degradation or stabilization. These molecules that include Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) and molecular glues are being used to seek out previously “undruggable” targets for therapeutic intervention. However, challenges do exist in terms of specificity, stability, biodistribution and penetration of these degrader molecules.

The 2nd Annual conference on Next-Generation Degraders & Glues brings together experts in the field to discuss these new therapeutic modalities, as well as issues underlying the use of targeted degradation as a new therapeutic approach.