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News

This figure illustrates the multiscale platform used for the discovery and validation of PAK1 kinase activators. The approach begins with PAK1-activating peptide as a guide to identify potential binding sites for virtual screening of small-molecule activators. Hits are then validated using mass spectrometry-based assays to confirm PAK1 activation, and further characterised through biophysical and structural studies to elucidate the mechanism of action. Finally, the therapeutic potential of the PAK1 activators is evaluated in both in vitro and in vivo models of cardiac hypertrophy.

Oxford-led study reveals new way to activate protein kinases, opening new therapeutic possibilities

16 April 2026

Diagram showing how genetic instability in normal cells leads to tumour formation through acquired mutations. It illustrates two outcomes: mutations activating cancer-driving pathways, and cancer cells becoming dependent on specific signalling pathways, both of which can be targeted by precision medicines.

Oxford University spinout Dark Blue Therapeutics acquired to advance leukaemia treatment

31 March 2026

Schematic showing how the CBH-002 probe detects different types of PRMT5 inhibitors and senses changes in cellular metabolic state of SAM. Credit: Rothweiler et al., Nat Comm 2025

Oxford researchers develop first live-cell assay linking cancer tumour metabolism to drug effectiveness

9 December 2025

Discovery reveals 'handbrake' that controls cancer drug response

10 November 2025

More news

Publications

The changing face of UK academic drug screening in the past decade

Baronio R. and Ebner D., (2026), Nature Reviews Drug Discovery

AI-assisted fragment-based drug discovery of SARS-CoV-2 macrodomain binders validated by NMR and X-ray crystallography.

Aledavood E. et al, (2026), Commun Chem

Functional role of a structural water in the elevator domain of dicarboxylate transporter VcINDY

Daab A. et al, (2026), PNAS Nexus