Blacksmith Medicines has developed a specialized platform aimed at discovering and developing small molecule inhibitors that target metalloenzymes, which are enzymes that require metal ions for their activity. This platform leverages a focused fragment library of metal-binding pharmacophores (MBPs) to screen against various metalloenzyme targets, allowing for the identification of selective inhibitors. The company has created a comprehensive database that catalogs the metalloenzyme genome, detailing their functions and associated metal cofactors, which aids in understanding their roles in diseases. Additionally, Blacksmith employs a unique metallo-CRISPR library to facilitate efficient phenotypic screens, enabling the exploration of new therapeutic targets and the validation of existing ones.

The company’s approach is further enhanced by its expertise in computational modeling and docking, which integrates bio-inorganic principles with traditional medicinal chemistry. This combination supports both fragment-based and structure-based drug discovery methodologies. Blacksmith Medicines has also established a robust intellectual property portfolio, including patents on its innovative chemistry scaffolds and in-licensed technologies, which collectively bolster its capabilities in metalloenzyme-targeted medicine development. Through these technologies, Blacksmith aims to address significant challenges in drug development, particularly for oncology and infectious diseases, by creating effective therapeutics that have previously been hindered by chemistry limitations.

United States

Blacksmith Medicines is a biotechnology company focused on creating medicines targeting metalloenzymes. They have announced a merger with Forge Therapeutics to further their mission.

Blacksmith Medicines

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