#Japan #Tokyo #Zeureka #Protein Degrader #RealizeEdge

Collaboration for Drug Discovery in Protein Degradation

In a significant advancement in pharmaceutical research, RealizeEdge Partners, located in Chuo-ku, Tokyo, has entered into a collaborative contract with Zeureka Co., Ltd., based in Minato-ku, Tokyo. This partnership aims to create candidates for targeted protein degraders (TPD) and a pioneering novel modality known as Degrader-Antibody Conjugate (DAC). The collaboration also involves Axcelead Drug Discovery Partners, based in Fujisawa, Kanagawa, which has been appointed by RealizeEdge to support these research efforts.

RealizeEdge Partners is keen on establishing a drug discovery venture that leverages TPD/DAC technology. The company is focusing on the development of new pharmaceutical agents with the help of Zeureka’s expertise in computational drug discovery. Specifically, Zeureka will utilize advanced computational techniques, including predictive calculations of ternary complex structures through TPD and its proprietary Free Energy Perturbation (FEP) program, to facilitate the creation of groundbreaking drug candidates.

This newly signed contract implies that Zeureka will gain rights to utilize the computational techniques and insights acquired throughout the collaboration for future internal projects. On the other hand, Axcelead Drug Discovery Partners is expected to contribute its strong capabilities in synthesizing candidate compounds and conducting in vitro evaluations, significantly enhancing the research process.

Zeureka harnesses the power of its large-scale supercomputer alongside its sophisticated computational drug discovery technologies to provide extensive drug development support services. With a focus on a range of computational methods, from AI applications to large-scale molecular dynamics simulations, the company addresses varied needs in drug discovery, including high-accuracy activity predictions and virtual screenings across vast chemical libraries. Beyond its strengths in small molecules, Zeureka is poised to dramatically improve the efficiency and success rates of research in emerging drug discovery modalities such as the TPD domain.

Understanding the TPD and DAC Technologies

TPD stands for Targeted Protein Degrader, a crucial technology aimed at enhancing the specificity and efficacy of drug interactions. The Degrader-Antibody Conjugate, or DAC, represents a novel approach that combines the targeted selection features of antibodies with the powerful activity of protein degrading agents. This innovative fusion is anticipated to lead to the emergence of new types of pharmaceutical interventions that can address previously difficult-to-treat conditions.

About Zeureka Co., Ltd.

Founded in November 2021 and wholly owned by Mitsui & Co., Zeureka specializes in offering AI-based drug discovery support services, computational environments, and collaborative research development aimed at breakthroughs in the pharmaceutical industry. With a keen interest in protein degradation and computational techniques, the company is rapidly becoming a pivotal player in the drug discovery landscape.

About RealizeEdge Partners

Launched in April 2025, RealizeEdge Partners functions as a startup studio focused on drug development. It aspires to assist researchers and entrepreneurs throughout the journey from conceptualization to implementation, ensuring that effective medications reach the market, thereby fulfilling crucial healthcare needs.

About Axcelead Drug Discovery Partners

Established in July 2017, Axcelead specializes in advisory services and executing drug discovery-related projects. With a focus on tailored support throughout the drug development process, Axcelead is recognized for its high capabilities in the realm of protein degradation research.

Conclusion

The alliance between RealizeEdge Partners, Zeureka, and Axcelead signifies a transformative step forward in the development of targeted therapies. This contract not only enhances the capability to create innovative medicines but also adheres to the collaborative spirit of the modern pharmaceutical industry, where shared expertise and technology pave the way for groundbreaking discoveries.