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                Clinical DevelopmentTranslational Research: Lead Optimization
    Lead optimization is the process of generating a pre-therapeutic lead candidate by improving the properties of small molecules or non-viral biologics for which positive and negative attributes have been identified and candidates are tractable to modification. Examples of properties to be improved may be potency, efficacy, selectivity, or bioavailability. This process typically involves the generation and testing of multiple new agents in order to gain a scientific understanding of how variations in lead candidates effect these properties. It is expected that lead optimization will involve assessment of efficacy in animal models and/or ex vivo human samples.

    
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NIH Funding Opportunities
PAR-22-111, Early-Stage Preclinical Validation of Therapeutic Leads for Diseases of Interest to the NIDDK (R01 Clinical Trial Not Allowed) has expired. The NIDDK is still interested in supporting this type of translational science and another potential option is to apply to the Parent R01 NOFO (PA-20-185) and consider requesting review assignment to any of CSR’s Drug Synthesis, Discovery, Disposition, and Xenobiotics study sections, or another relevant review panel. Applicants should consult the NIH/CSR study section descriptions before requesting a specific review panel.Related Resources
Academic Drug Discovery Consortium
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**Division of Kidney, Urologic, and Hematologic Diseases**Dr. Anna Sadusky
**Division of Digestive Diseases and Nutrition**Dr. Bonnie Burgess-Beusse
**Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolic Diseases**Dr. Yan Li        Last Reviewed October 2023 Contact Us
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