Clypse-Open – Core Unit for Degrader-Molecules
Clypse-Open is a core unit of the CAU Innovation GmbH and part of the Tumor-Biochemistry Working Group at the Biochemical Institute of Kiel University. Clypse-Open aims to promote the academic development of novel degrader molecules to enhance their pharmaceutical potential to the fullest.
Degrader molecules – an innovative approach
While classic inhibitors aim to inhibit the function of a target protein, degrader molecules enable the targeted and complete degradation of cellular proteins. This allows for effective inhibition of non-enzymatic proteins such as structural proteins or transcription factors. A distinction is made between small-molecule bivalent degraders (known as proteolysis targeting chimeras) and molecular adhesives, as well as bivalent antibody-based degraders. Common to all strategies is the targeted delivery of target proteins to cellular degradation systems such as the ubiquitin-proteasome system or the lysosomal system.
Services provided by Clypse-Open
As part of scientific collaborations, Clypse-Open offers systems that enable the rational development of degrader molecules. In addition to the targeted development of user-specific tools, we support the entire development process by providing scientific advice and validated positive controls. Results obtained using a cell line produced by us may be freely published. The prerequisite for this is the inclusion of the participating Clypse-Open scientists as co-authors (see Material Transfer Agreement).
Reporter cell lines determining the efficiency of degrader molecules
We produce reporter cell lines that express fusion proteins consisting of the target protein and luciferases. After degrader treatment, target protein degradation can be determined precisely and reproducibly based on the luciferase signal. Functional lysine-free luciferases or split luciferase systems are used.