GPCR Programme

Oxagen has focussed on GPCRs as a target class and has used its heritage in human genetics to focus down the large number of GPCRs in the human genome to a subset which show a clear and strong genetic association in man with one or more inflammatory or autoimmune conditions. To date we have identified 60 associations across five diseases, namely, asthma, autoimmune disease, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis), psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis. Many GPCRs show genetic association to multiple diseases.

The GPCR targets we have prioritised by relevance to disease pathogenesis in man through clinical genetics range from orphan receptors, where the natural ligand is still unknown to well known and studied receptors against which there has been significant activity within pharma and biotech. In a number of cases the activity has been focussed on prosecution of these targets in therapeutic areas other than those in which we have demonstrated relevance and thus represent opportunities for indication switches (see partnering interests).

Click here for further information on Oxagen's GPCR programme