Drug Discovery and Development
The global rise in obesity and its associated metabolic complications, including type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease, and cardiovascular risk, continues to drive the urgent need for novel, mechanism-based therapies. Despite multiple available treatments, there remains no single drug that safely and effectively addresses the full spectrum of obesity-related metabolic dysfunction. This therapeutic gap underscores the need for new pharmacological strategies that target the underlying pathophysiology rather than just symptomatic control.
At the Tam Laboratory, we translate mechanistic insights into first-in-class and best-in-class therapeutic candidates. Our drug discovery program is rooted in our long-standing expertise in the endocannabinoid system, especially in developing peripherally restricted CB1R antagonists and endocannabinoid-like molecules with multi-organ metabolic benefits and reduced central nervous system side effects.
From Molecule to IND-Readiness
We have established a full translational pipeline to advance novel compounds from early discovery through preclinical proof-of-concept, pharmacokinetics, toxicology, and IND-enabling studies. Several of our proprietary compounds are currently under advanced preclinical and clinical evaluation for the treatment of metabolic diseases.
Our infrastructure supports:
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In-house compound design and screening, including structure-activity relationship (SAR) optimization
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Mechanistic testing across cellular systems, organoid models, and mouse models of obesity, MASLD, CKD, and osteoporosis
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Pharmacokinetic profiling, toxicity evaluation, and efficacy studies in collaboration with leading CROs
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Partnerships with biotech companies, which license and co-develop our technologies
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Formation of new ventures (newCOs) to accelerate clinical translation and de-risk early-stage innovation
Targeted Drug Delivery and Next-Generation Platforms
In parallel, we are developing tissue- and organelle-specific drug delivery systems using biocompatible polymeric nanoparticles and targeting ligands to encapsulate cannabinoid-based compounds. These delivery systems enhance bioavailability, protect unstable molecules, and enable precision targeting to diseased tissues, including liver, kidney, adipose tissue, and bone. This innovative delivery strategy complements our medicinal chemistry efforts and further supports our vision of delivering safe, tissue-selective metabolic interventions.
