Nexentis Subsidiary MitoCareX Identifies New SLC Targets for Drug Discovery
NXTS•Nexentis’ subsidiary MitoCareX completed a broad structural analysis of human SLC transport proteins, identifying multiple non-mitochondrial SLC targets compatible with its MITOLINE® modeling ruleset. The company plans to integrate MITOLINE®-derived 3D models into virtual screening workflows to expand its small-molecule discovery into cancer and metabolic disease targets.
1. Broad Structural Analysis Completed
MitoCareX Bio Ltd. has finalized a comprehensive structural analysis of human SLC transport proteins using its proprietary MITOLINE® sequence alignment algorithm. This study extended beyond the mitochondrial SLC25 family, identifying multiple non-mitochondrial SLC proteins whose amino acid sequences match MITOLINE® compatibility rules. The findings broaden the scope of targets available for structure-based drug design against hard-to-treat cancers and inflammatory metabolic diseases.
2. MITOLINE® Platform Application
The MITOLINE® platform enables reliable 3D modeling of compatible transporters by applying sequence-based rules to predict structural conformations. MitoCareX plans to leverage these MITOLINE®-derived models in its virtual screening workflows to uncover novel small-molecule candidates. This approach maintains a computationally driven discovery pipeline that can rapidly iterate on target structures and screening results.
3. Strategic Expansion of Discovery Pipeline
By integrating additional SLC transporters into its discovery engine, Nexentis aims to diversify its oncology and metabolic disease pipeline while maximizing resource efficiency. The company’s next steps include virtual screening of newly modeled targets, with the potential to identify first-in-class small molecules for challenging disease pathways. Expanded target coverage could enhance Nexentis’ valuation by accelerating preclinical candidate nomination and attracting strategic partnerships.
