Explore the Agenda
8:00 am Morning Coffee & Workshop Check-In
Workshop A
9:00 am From Identification to Translation: Harnessing AI & ML in GPCR Drug Discovery
Despite GPCRs accounting for a significant proportion of all approved drugs, it is estimated that 60–85% of potentially therapeutic GPCRs remain untargeted, leaving substantial untapped opportunity within this receptor class. Historically, limited structural data has posed a major challenge to advancing GPCR-targeted drug discovery. However, recent breakthroughs in AI-driven modelling and machine learning are beginning to transform this landscape. From predicting receptor structures with greater precision to enhancing target identification and streamlining drug design, these technologies are rapidly accelerating discovery and enabling access to previously unreachable targets. This workshop will explore how the latest advancements in AI and ML are driving innovation in GPCR drug discovery, bridging the gap from target identification to clinical translation.
Key Takeaways:
- Utilise computer-based drug design to overcome structural gaps by supporting structure prediction, binding-site identification and functional conformation modelling, particularly for orphan and lipid-sensing receptors
- Enhance virtual screening and hit prioritisation by leveraging AI for molecular docking, chemical space exploration, and machine learning-driven scoring, ranking, and selection of tractable compounds
- Predict functional states and downstream signalling using AI models to gain deeper insights into receptor behaviour and distinguish between agonist and antagonist responses
12:00 pm Lunch & Networking
Workshop B
1:00 pm What’s Next Beyond GLP-1? Exploring Emerging GPCR Targets & Modalities for Metabolic & Obesity Therapies
GLP-1 therapies have transformed metabolic and obesity treatment, but limitations such as limited durability, gastrointestinal side effects, variable patient response, and gaps in addressing broader metabolic pathways highlight the need for fresh approaches. This workshop shines a spotlight on the next wave of GPCR targets poised to expand treatment options and precision care. From tackling tough class B receptors to pioneering novel therapeutic modalities, we’ll explore the cutting-edge strategies reshaping how we approach metabolic diseases and obesity. Join us to discover the future beyond GLP-1, bridging the gap between innovation and unmet patient needs.
Key Takeaways:
- Discuss the limitations of GLP-1 therapies in precision medicine and expand therapeutic reach beyond GLP-1 by exploring emerging GPCR targets like amylin, GRP, and orphan receptors to better serve underserved patient subgroups
- Share approaches to identify ligands for challenging class B GPCRs with large or poorly defined binding pockets, using orthosteric/allosteric strategies, PAM/NAM sensitisation, and advanced virtual or high-throughput screening tools
- Advance next-gen GPCR therapeutics through peptide, antibody, or bispecific engineering, optimising half-life, pharmacokinetics, and combination strategies with mechanisms like immune checkpoint modulation