The latest start-up company from the school of life sciences is at the forefront of international research into identifying drug targets in human cells - which could ultimately result in new treatments for life-threatening diseases.
Kinasource Ltd is using a powerful new biochemical technology called KESTRELŪ to identify key controller proteins in human cells that have fundamental roles in processes such as cell growth, division and death. One particular class of these proteins called kinase substrates has become increasingly important as drug targets. Identifying these proteins and how they can malfunction will enable scientists to develop new drugs to control cancer and other diseases.
So far, scientists understand the role of only around 20% of the 500 different kinase substrates in the human genome, so the potential for new discoveries which could help combat serious illnesses remains massive. Currently some 30% of all research spending on drug development is focused on kinases, especially in research to combat cancer, immune diseases and diabetes.
Using KESTREL, which was developed in the laboratory of Professor Philip Cohen, Kinasource Ltd works to identify the role of kinase substrates for international companies within the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.
Kinasource is headed by Dr Axel Knebel, managing director. Other key staff include Dr Mairead Murnion, who has been awarded a prestigious Scottish Enterprise/Royal Society of Edinburgh enterprise fellowship and David Evans, company secretary. Professor David Lane and Dr Dario Alessi, will be acting as scientific advisors to the company.
The company start-up has been financed by the founders. Kinasource receives development funding from Scottish Enterprise Tayside and is now preparing to enter discussions with private investors to accelerate growth.