Cambridge Healthtech Institute’s 8th Annual
RNA-Targeted Small Molecule Drug Discovery
Novel Strategies Using Small Molecules to Target RNA Structure, Binding, Interactions, and Function
April 19, 2027
RNA molecules have complex, dynamic structures which make them challenging drug targets. However, advances in elucidating RNA structure, function, and interactions have led to finding small molecules to target RNA for therapeutic intervention. AI models and machine learning algorithms have also helped predict RNA-ligand interactions and optimize compounds with enhanced stability, oral bioavailability, and better drug-like properties. However, identifying the right disease-causing RNA and evaluating the downstream physiological responses after small molecule binding can be quite challenging. Cambridge Healthtech Institute’s symposium on RNA-Targeted Small Molecule Drug Discovery will highlight some of the early discovery and preclinical work being done to target mRNA, non-coding RNA, microRNA, and other modalities for cardiometabolic, infectious, and neurologic disorders, oncology, and other genetic indications.
Coverage will likely include:
- Identifying and targeting the right RNA structural motifs and binding sites for therapeutic intervention
- Screening tools for characterization and optimization of the RNA modulators, binders, and degraders
- Tools for validating RNA structural accessibility, functional modulation, and disease association
- Developing new RNA splicing modulators, covalent inhibitors, RNA degraders, and proximity inducers
- Targeting RNA-protein binding interactions
- Using AI and machine learning to design and predict RNA-ligand binding and modulation
The deadline for priority consideration is October 5, 2026.
All proposals are subject to review by session chairpersons and/or the Scientific Advisory Committee to ensure the overall quality of the conference program. Additionally, as per Cambridge Healthtech Institute’s policy, a select number of vendors and consultants who provide products and services will be offered opportunities for podium presentation slots based on a variety of Corporate Sponsorships.
Opportunities for Participation:
- To submit a podium presentation, please click here.
- To become a sponsor, click here.
- To present a poster, click here.