Clovertex’s November Target of the Month is Ninjurin 1 (NINJ1), selected in light of a recent...
Clovertex’s August 2025 Target of the Month is MC4R (melanocortin‑4 receptor). MC4R is a GPCR that plays a central role in appetite regulation and energy balance; genetic variants in this receptor are among the most common inherited contributors to obesity, including rare conditions like hypothalamic obesity and Bardet‑Biedl Syndrome. This month’s focus comes on the heels of Superluminal Medicines announcing that its selective, biased small‑molecule MC4R agonist is advancing into IND‑enabling studies. Designed to sidestep common off-target effects like changes in skin pigmentation and blood pressure, the candidate highlights how modern structural biology and AI‑guided design are making it possible to revisit previously difficult targets.
A recent Endpoints News article further reflects renewed momentum across the industry for MC4R as a validated but underutilized mechanism. Multiple biopharma players are now exploring its potential not only in rare genetic obesity, but also in broader applications like appetite loss and combination strategies with GLP‑1s. Success in this area could meaningfully expand treatment options for patients who’ve long faced limited choices, while also creating opportunities in one of the most dynamic therapeutic markets today.
The Protein Imager rendering displays the cryo-EM structure of the unliganded human melanocortin receptor 4 (MC4R)-Gs complex (PDB entry 9K3K).
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. Biopharma returns to MC4R for drugs targeting genetic obesity as well as appetite loss
2. Clovertex website
