Application note: Novel screening tools for TMEM175 drug discovery

Successful ion channel drug discovery relies on high-quality reagents and assays to drive informed decisions and meet critical deadlines. SB Drug Discovery, with over 20 years of experience, offers cutting-edge ion channel drug discovery solutions. Our portfolio includes TMEM175, a novel ion channel with therapeutic potential. 

TMEM175, also known as transmembrane protein 175, is a constitutively active ion channel involved in regulating lysosomal pH and autophagy. Mutations in the gene encoding TMEM175 impair normal lysosomal function, leading to protein aggregation and the degenerative symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease (PD).

In our high-throughput electrophysiology screening assay, TMEM175 currents are monitored using a voltage protocol, enabling the identification of active small molecules. This assay consistently yields high success rates and confirmed hit rates, supporting efficient drug discovery processes.

Also included in this application note is an article on biomarkers as key tools for advancing Alzheimer’s drug development. The use of biomarkers in Alzheimer’s drug development will address many of the challenges currently encountered in Alzheimer’s clinical trials and treatment. Work taking place to validate blood biomarkers for the disease is poised to be a game changing development in a field already experiencing rapid progress.