Experiences in fragment-based lead discovery
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Updated: Jun 3, 2026

Nano-Differential Scanning Fluorimetry for Screening in Fragment-based Lead Discovery
Published on: May 16, 2021
Roderick E Hubbard1, James B Murray
1Vernalis (R&D) Ltd., Granta Park, Cambridge, United Kingdom; YSBL & HYMS, University of York, Heslington, York, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
This chapter summarizes the experience at Vernalis over the past decade in developing and applying fragment-based discovery methods across a range of different targets. The emphasis will be on the practical aspects of the different biophysical techniques (surface plasmon resonance (SPR), differential scanning fluorimetry (DSF), isothermal titration calorimetry, nuclear magnetic resonance, and X-ray crystallography) that can be used to identify fragments that bind to targets and a discussion of the criteria and strategies for selecting and evolving fragments to lead compounds.
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