Calici’s AI-based drug discovery platform, Pharmaco‑Net®, has contributed to its first customer joint research paper, now published in PNAS. The study demonstrates Calici’s approach of “result-driven AI drug discovery” by producing meaningful outcomes in real drug development.
The research focused on neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC), targeting the transcription factor ETV5. Key findings include:
- ETV5 drives NEPC progression by suppressing androgen receptor (AR) expression and promoting neurostem-like traits.
- Obeticholic Acid (OCA), an FDA-approved drug, was identified via computational screening as a strong ETV5 inhibitor.
- Drug repositioning strategy: OCA disrupts ETV5-DNA binding, reduces NEPC markers, and restores AR expression, suggesting potential therapeutic repurposing.
This study highlights how AI platforms like Pharmaco‑Net® can generate actionable, clinically relevant insights, demonstrating the scientific value of collaborations with Calici’s customers.