Drug discovery for neglected diseases: molecular target-based and phenotypic approaches.

ABSTRACT: Drug discovery for neglected tropical diseases is carried out using both target-based and phenotypic approaches. In this paper, target-based approaches are discussed, with a particular focus on human African trypanosomiasis. Target-based drug discovery can be successful, but careful selection of targets is required. There are still very few fully validated drug targets in neglected diseases, and there is a high attrition rate in target-based drug discovery for these diseases. Phenotypic screening is a powerful method in both neglected and non-neglected diseases and has been very successfully used. Identification of molecular targets from phenotypic approaches can be a way to identify potential new drug targets.

SUBMITTER: Gilbert IH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3954685 | biostudies-other | 2013 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-other