Work

Advances in computational methods for PROTAC drug discovery

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) represent a transformative strategy in drug discovery, enabling the selective degradation of target proteins rather than merely inhibiting their activity. However, their structural complexity and deviation from conventional drug-like properties present major challenges for traditional design and optimization methods. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of recent computational advances that facilitate PROTAC development, encompassing chemoinformatics, structural bioinformatics, molecular modeling and machine learning resources. We highlight computational tools for warhead and linker design, ternary complex modeling and the prediction of degradation efficiency and ADMET profiles. Finally, we discuss current limitations and future perspectives, emphasizing strategies to enhance design effectiveness and accelerate clinical translation.

Source: Drug Discovery Today

DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2026.104627

Authors: Massyel S. Martinez-Cortés, Carlos A. Velázquez-Martínez, José L. Medina-Franco

Institutions: Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, University of Alberta

Language: English

Topic: Protein Degradation and Inhibitors

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,720

Funders: Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología, Canadian Institutes of Health Research