An analysis of recent prodrugs reported in the literature is discussed. The range of strategies includes ProTide technologies, esters, phosphates, cell-targeting approaches, pH-dependent approaches, and newer technologies such as photo- and radiation-activated prodrugs. Many successful prodrug approaches have been a result of the first three examples, which appear to be well established. One area of significant impact for prodrug technology has been with anti-infectives. This area is discussed in detail with learnings and innovations that can be applied to other disease areas. Finally, the prodrug strategy is discussed in the context of both reactive and proactive applications. If used as a rescue strategy for a failed clinical candidate, it can be potentially costly and time-consuming. Proactive prodrug strategies should be considered in the early phase of drug discovery programs, especially in cases in which chemotype properties or target-based risks may compromise the desired route of administration.

The Department of Chemistry in the School of Arts & Sciences at the University of Richmond invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track position in Biochemistry at the rank of Assistant Prof...

The Department of Chemistry in the School of Arts & Sciences at the University of Richmond invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track position in Physical Chemistry at the rank of Assistan...

More than 900 research grants worth $2.6 billion are in jeopardy. So is the 80-year-old model of American science.

A federal judge ruled that some of the grant terminations by the National Institutes of Health on DEI grounds are “void and illegal.”

In a typical undergraduate biochemistry course, two main educational objectives include (1) understanding and applying how genetic mutations can influence protein structure and function, and (2) exami...