Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 23, 2026

Development of a Backbone Cyclic Peptide Library as Potential Antiparasitic Therapeutics Using Microwave Irradiation
Published on: January 26, 2016
From Transient to Stable: Incorporating Electrophiles in Genetically-Encoded and DNA-Encoded Libraries of
James H Walker1, Kejia Yan1, Ratmir Derda1
1Department of Chemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2G2, Canada.
Covalent genetically encoded libraries (cGELs) enable discovery of peptide-derived macrocycles targeting previously undruggable proteins. These advanced platforms utilize persistent electrophilic warheads for selective covalent inhibition, expanding therapeutic possibilities.
Area of Science:
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Drug Discovery
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Peptide-derived macrocycles are a promising therapeutic class targeting protein-protein interactions.
- Genetically encoded library (GEL) platforms accelerate discovery but have limitations in chemical space expansion.
- Electrophiles can be incorporated into GELs to create covalent ligands or facilitate cyclization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review advances in covalent genetically encoded libraries (cGELs).
- To highlight strategies for embedding persistent electrophilic warheads in GELs.
- To discuss opportunities for discovering ligands against undruggable targets.
Main Methods:
- Phage and mRNA display platforms for GEL construction.
- Incorporation of electrophiles for covalent ligand generation.
- Development of strategies for persistent electrophilic warheads.
Main Results:
- Persistent electrophilic warheads enable selective covalent inhibition of proteins.
- Approaches yield both reversible and irreversible covalent inhibitors.
- Challenges include balancing electrophile reactivity and library integrity.
Conclusions:
- cGELs represent a significant advancement in drug discovery.
- These platforms offer new avenues for targeting historically undruggable proteins.
- Future opportunities lie in optimizing cGELs for diverse therapeutic applications.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Conservative Site-specific Recombination and Phase Variation
The recognition sites for Cre recombinase called LoxP...
ATP and Macromolecule Synthesis
Most macromolecules are composed of single subunits, or building blocks, called monomers. The monomers combine with each other using covalent bonds to form larger molecules known as polymers.
Conversion of...
Transformation

