PROTAC

PROTACs (Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras) are a groundbreaking class of therapeutic agents that harness the body's own protein degradation system to selectively eliminate disease-causing proteins. Unlike traditional inhibitors that merely block protein function, PROTACs direct specific proteins for degradation by linking them to E3 ubiquitin ligases, which tag them for destruction by the proteasome. This technology allows for the targeting of previously "undruggable" proteins, offering potential treatments for a wide range of diseases including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and viral infections. PROTACs are versatile and efficient, as they can repeatedly catalyze the degradation process, potentially leading to more sustained and effective treatments compared to conventional drugs. Their development represents a significant advancement in the field of drug design and targeted therapy.