 |
Oncology
The goal of the oncology group is to build a broad portfolio of small molecule and biologics approaches to the treatment of various human cancers. The research targets critical cell proliferation and signaling pathways. Specific projects are focused on the family of protein kinases, including cell surface, signal transduction and cell cycle kinases, and on other critical pathways that are activated or inhibited in tumor cells.
Infectious Diseases
The virology group is focused primarily on HIV and on hepatitis C, with research programs centered on several critical viral and cellular protein targets for these diseases. Structure-based drug design plays an important role in the discovery of small molecules for the hepatitis C viral proteases and polymerases. Other viral diseases are in earlier stages of exploratory research. The group is also working on novel antibacterial and antifungal targets.
Inflammatory Diseases
The inflammation research group is working in the areas of both biologics and small molecules to build a balanced portfolio of anti-inflammatory approaches. The research efforts target the activation and migration of specific inflammatory cell types that are important for the initiation and maintenance of inflammatory response. The group also has a strong expertise in cytokine biology, chemokines and immune cell biology, which guides exploratory target identification studies.
Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases
The cardiovascular group is focused on various therapeutic approaches to treating the underlying causes of atherothrombosis. Building on the expertise developed during the discovery of ZETIA, various approaches to treating the dyslipidemia and obesity associated with metabolic syndrome are under investigation. Our exploratory research in this area is also directed at cardiovascular syndromes such as thrombosis and atherosclerosis.
Respiratory Diseases
Our traditional strength in the respiratory area builds on a cross-functional collaboration between scientists with expertise in inflammatory diseases and those with expertise in neuronal activation. This approach supports the exploration of novel molecular targets throughout the entire airway, leading to programs in the areas of congestion, cough, allergy, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Central Nervous System (CNS)
The focus of the CNS group is on the discovery of novel treatments for neurodegenerative diseases and pain. Some programs focus on both Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, and there is exploratory research to understand the underlying causes of neuronal degeneration. The group also has expertise in the areas of neuropathic and inflammatory pain, where several programs are under way. More research is directed toward the areas of psychiatry and drug addiction.
|
|
