Clovertex Target of the Month (06/23): Endothelin A Receptor

For June 2023, we draw your attention to the Endothelin A Receptor (ETAR) as the 'Clovertex Drug Target of the Month'. ETAR, integral to the regulation of kidney function, is the primary target of atrasentan, a late-stage drug candidate in the realm of chronic kidney diseases.

Atrasentan, an oral ETAR antagonist, once suspended during Phase III trials, has found resurgence under Chinook Therapeutics. The hypothesis that the pathological activation of the endothelin system in IgA nephropathy could be interrupted with receptor antagonism, thereby improving patient outcomes, provides new hope for the management of this progressive disease.

In a significant acquisition, Novartis has taken Chinook Therapeutics under its wing, infusing a substantial $3.2 billion upfront, with an additional $300 million contingent on certain regulatory milestones. This move underscores the increasing confidence in ETAR as a promising therapeutic target. The protein model rendering features the AlphaFold structure prediction of ETAR.

About Clovertex

Clovertex is an industry leader specializing in meeting the scientific IT needs of pharmaceutical companies, with a robust focus on cloud-based or on-premises cryo-EM processing. As an Advanced Tier Services Partner with Amazon Web Services (AWS), Clovertex leverages its comprehensive expertise to architect, build, automate, and manage software applications designed to meet specific research needs. Our all-encompassing solutions are meticulously tailored to streamline the complex processes associated with pharmaceutical research, underscoring our commitment to innovation, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. By integrating state-of-the-art technology with deep scientific understanding, Clovertex paves the way in optimizing the intersection of information technology and pharmaceutical development.

Useful links

1. Fierce Biotech: Novartis inks $3.2B Chinook buyout to lift kidney disease plans

2. Clovertex website