Prioritization of Molecular Targets for Antimalarial Drug Discovery
Barbara Forte, Sabine Ottilie, Andrew Plater, Brice Campo, Koen J. Dechering, Francisco‐Javier Gamo, Daniel E. Goldberg, Eva S. Istvan, Lee M, Amanda K. Lukens, Case W. McNamara, Jacquin C. Niles, John Okombo, Charisse Flerida A. Pasaje, Miles G. Siegel, Dyann F. Wirth, Susan Wyllie, David A. Fidock, Beatriz Baragaña, Elizabeth A. Winzeler, Ian H. Gilbert
Abstract
species. Given the high attrition rate and high cost of drug discovery, it is important to select the targets most likely to deliver progressible drug candidates. In this paper, we describe the criteria that we consider important for selecting targets for antimalarial drug discovery. We describe the analysis of a number of drug targets in the Malaria Drug Accelerator (MalDA) pipeline, which has allowed us to prioritize targets that are ready to enter the drug discovery process. This selection process has also highlighted where additional data are required to inform target progression or deprioritization of other targets. Finally, we comment on how additional drug targets may be identified.