Professor Zhang Ge, together with Professor Lei Jinping from Sun Yat-sen University, applied for the Guangdong-Hong Kong Technology Cooperation Funding Scheme (TCFS) titled "Development of Small-molecule Inhibitors Targeting Sclerostin Loop3 for Reversing Established Osteoporosis". After multiple rounds of competition, Professor Zhang’s project was successfully funded by the Innovation and Technology Fund (ITF), with a grant amount of HK$1,999,850, for a duration of 2 years (Figure 1).

Abstract:

The monoclonal antibody romosozumab has shown a high cardiovascular risk in clinical trials for treating postmenopausal osteoporosis, leading to compliance issues for patients preferring oral therapy. Our in vitro and in vivo studies have revealed that specifically targeting sclerostin loop 3 could promote bone formation without elevating cardiovascular risk. Consequently, the hit compound, targeting loop 3, was designed through virtual screening, structural modification, and in vitro binding experiments. Building upon our previous research, we will employ artificial intelligence-guided de novo design and screening, organic synthesis, structure optimization, in vitro studies, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and more to develop a new generation of oral small-molecule inhibitors targeting sclerostin loop 3 without increasing cardiovascular risk.

Figure 1 Screenshot of the grant E-mail