FULL CONFERENCE PROGRAM
8:55 am Opening Remarks
Maximising Biophysical Techniques & Applications to Overcome Complex Systems & Drug the Undruggable
With the so-called low hanging fruit and easy to reach targets being successfully drugged, only vastly complex targets remain posing an intricate array of challenges to biophysicists looking to propel the industry forward.
Synopsis
This section provides context on how industry peers are utilizing biophysical techniques to solve new and novel problems for so-called hard-to-reach targets.
9:00 am Using Biophysics to Answer Key Questions in a Neuroscience Specific Discovery Organization
Synopsis
- Navigating the use of the right biophysics assay to answer specific questions at different stages in preclinical pipeline
- How mechanism of action information about a small molecule can improve our ability to prosecute hits
- Uncovering the additional constraints and considerations involved in small molecule drug discovery for brain-penetrant neurotherapeutics
9:30 am Discovery of Reversible Inhibitors of RNA-Modifying Enzymes
Synopsis
- Explore the identification and characterization of modulators of exonuclease XRN1, where surface plasmon resonance (SPR) played a critical role in validating and progressing an initial small molecule hit into optimization
- Learn about the Hit ID and optimization of small molecule inhibitors of DExH-Box
- Helicase DHX9, where a toolbox of biochemical and biophysical assays progressed an initial hit with partial ATPase inhibition to a Development Candidate
10:00 am Biophysical Strategies for Precise RNA Targeting in Drug Discovery
Synopsis
- Unraveling the inherent complexities of RNA structures, addressing the distinct challenges posed by the limited structural motifs compared to proteins
- Delving into strategies to achieve heightened specificity in RNA targeting, mitigating the risk of false positives and off-target effects in drug discovery campaigns
- Dissecting RNA interactions with precision for strategic hit identification, navigating the less varied target landscape presented by RNA
10:30 am Breakfast & Networking
11:00 am Unravelling the Biophysical Toolkit & Maximizing Techniques for Challenging Proteins
Synopsis
- Exploring the additional complexities involved in studying dynamic protein degraders in controlled in vitro environments
- Maximal applications of biophysical techniques to understand complex interactions and strategies to enhance predictive ability of assays
- Specific methods employed to tease apart molecular and target interactions in MOA and target validation studies
11:30 am Biochemical & Biophysical Characterization of Transcription Factor- BAF Interaction
Synopsis
- Transcription Factors have been compelling targets but historically very hard to drug.
- Many Transcription Factors work with BAF remodeling complexes to modulate gene expression
- Insights into Biochemical and Biophysical methods for identification and validation of TF:BAF interactions.
12:00 pm Panel Discussion: Biophysical Insights Across Diverse Modalities in Drug Discovery
Synopsis
This engaging panel discussion aims to translate key learnings from the prior talks into actionable strategies for drug discovery professionals regardless of the targets being worked on. Industry experts converge to share cross disciplinary insights, drawing parallels between different target classes and modalities. Explore the common challenges and innovative solutions, fostering a collaborative environment for enhanced biophysical approaches in diverse drug development scenarios
12:45 pm Lunch Break
Future Directions & Emerging Technologies: Shaping Biophysics in Early Drug Discovery
Engage in a comprehensive glimpse into the future of biophysics in early drug discovery.
Synopsis
This forward-looking theme propels us into the next frontier of drug development, where the marriage of biophysics and cuttingedge technologies promises groundbreaking advances. Delve into the realm of AI advances and machine learning reshaping in silico screening, and the transformative applications of single-cell biophysics
1:30 pm Leveraging Computational Design, Miniaturization, & Microfluidics to Accelerate the Discovery of Therapeutic Proteins
Synopsis
Integration of physical and digital automations to advance lead discovery process, a case study highlighting the impact of these will be presented:
- Leveraging ML/sequence clustering, Next-Gen sequencing to maximize in vitro and in vivo discovery campaigns
- Discovery of de novo binders to complex receptor complexes
- uHT production and characterization approaches to accelerating lead selection
2:00 pm Revolutionizing Hit Discovery: Integrating Ultra-Large Affinity Screening with AI-Driven Lead Prediction
Synopsis
- Exploring how AI algorithms can predict potential leads by analysing vast datasets enhancing efficiency and increasing the probability of success
- Exploring the role of deep learning and neural networks in unravelling complex relationships within biological data
- Delving into the specific machine learning and deep learning techniques driving AI advancements in lead discovery
2:30 pm Streamlining Data Analysis with the Integration of Biophysical Data into Machine Learning Algorithms
Synopsis
- Addressing the challenges of analyzing complex biophysical data in drug discovery
- Exploring specific applications of machine learning algorithms in handling biophysical data
- Discussing pre-processing techniques to prepare biophysical data for machine learning analysis
3:00 pm Panel Discussion: What Advances are Needed in Biophysical Techniques to Revolutionize the Drug Discovery Process to Maximum Efficiency
Synopsis
This panel discussion brings together thought leaders, experts, and innovators in biophysics to collectively envision the future of biophysical techniques in drug discovery. By addressing current challenges and identifying areas where improvements are crucial, the panel seeks to chart a course for maximizing efficiency in the drug discovery process. Expect coverage of the emerging techniques and how the role of automated high-throughput methods and how advancements in robotics can accelerate biophysical workflows.