HitGen and Nested Therapeutics Sign Research Service Agreement for DNA-Encoded Library

China-based HitGen, a drug discovery technology platform company, announced on Aug. 10, 2023 that it has entered into a research service agreement with Nested Therapeutics (Nested), a US-based biotechnology company specializing in a next-generation precision medicine platform for hard-to-treat cancers. Under the agreement, HitGen will use its DNA-encoded library (DEL) technology platform to identify hits against targets in which Nested is interested.

HitGen’s technology platform is centered around the design, synthesis, and screening of DELs. The company applies its technology to early stage small-molecule drug discovery. Its platform includes more than 1.2 trillion small molecules generated by its DEL technology, which streamlines the screening process.

“We look forward to working with the research teams at Nested to generate novel starting points for their research programs to help address the unmet needs of patients with cancer. As one of HitGen’s four core technology platforms, our … DEL platform is an efficient ‘engine’ to advance drug discovery and has enabled hit identification and lead generation for many innovative discovery programs by our customers and partners. We look forward to delivering useful outcome[s ]for Nested’s research programs,” said Jin Li, chairman of the board and CEO of HitGen, in the press release.