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Updated: May 1, 2026

Using Human Differentially Expressed Gene Lists to Perform Downstream Pathway Enrichment Analysis and Target Prioritization
Published on: October 3, 2025
DrugPath: a database for academic investigators to match oncology molecular targets with drugs in development
Eric D Shah1, Brandon M A Fisch, Robert J Arceci
1Cancer Center and Departments of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Pediatrics, and Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th St, STOP 9445, Lubbock, TX, 79430, USA.
Purpose:
Academic laboratories are developing increasingly large amounts of data that describe the genomic landscape and gene expression patterns of various types of cancers. Such data can potentially identify novel oncology molecular targets in cancer types that may not be the primary focus of a drug sponsor's initial research for an investigational new drug. Obtaining preclinical data that point toward the potential for a given molecularly targeted agent, or a novel combination of agents requires knowledge of drugs currently in development in both the academic and commercial sectors.
Methods:
We have developed the DrugPath database ( http://www.drugpath.org ) as a comprehensive, free-of-charge resource for academic investigators to identify agents being developed in academics or industry that may act against molecular targets of interest. DrugPath data on molecular targets overlay the Michigan Molecular Interactions ( http://mimi.ncibi.org ) gene-gene interaction map to facilitate identification of related agents in the same pathway.
Results:
The database catalogs 2,081 drug development programs representing 751 drug sponsors and 722 molecular and genetic targets.
Conclusions:
DrugPath should assist investigators in identifying and obtaining drugs acting on specific molecular targets for biological and preclinical therapeutic studies.
Insights
The DrugPath database helps researchers find cancer drugs in development by cataloging 2,081 programs targeting 722 molecular and genetic markers. This resource aids in identifying potential oncology treatments for preclinical studies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genomics
- Drug Discovery
Background:
- Academic research generates vast cancer genomic and gene expression data.
- This data can reveal novel molecular targets for cancer therapies.
- Identifying investigational drugs requires knowledge of both academic and commercial development pipelines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce DrugPath, a free database for academic researchers.
- To facilitate the identification of potential drug candidates targeting specific molecular targets.
- To support preclinical research by connecting academic labs with drugs in development.
Main Methods:
- Developed the DrugPath database (http://www.drugpath.org).
- Integrated DrugPath data with the Michigan Molecular Interactions (http://mimi.ncibi.org) gene-gene interaction map.
- Enabled identification of agents targeting molecular pathways of interest.
Main Results:
- The database contains 2,081 drug development programs.
- It covers 751 drug sponsors and 722 molecular and genetic targets.
- DrugPath links molecular targets with drugs in development.
Conclusions:
- DrugPath serves as a valuable resource for academic investigators.
- It aids in identifying and acquiring drugs for specific molecular targets.
- Facilitates biological and preclinical therapeutic studies in oncology.
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