Optimization of a lead drug candidate often takes a few years, as companies assess hundreds and sometimes thousands of compounds, seeking just one with the best overall pharmacological profile. By contrast, Dynamix Pharmaceuticals Ltd. says its structure-based discovery approach dubbed DynamixFit has let the firm select lead molecules with less than 100 compounds synthesized in under two years. Dynamix aims to apply its techniques on two main tracks: first, to discover drug candidates that intervene with the metabolism of cancer cells; and second, to selectively target specific cellular signaling pathways mediated by Type II kinase inhibitors.

As reseachers uncover linkages between tumor formation and cellular metabolism, start-ups and their venture backers see an opportunity to create a new class of cancer medicines. In this issue, we profile Advanced Cancer Therapeutics, Cornerstone Pharmaceuticals and Dynamix Pharmaceuticals.

A preview of the emerging health care companies profiled in the current issue of Start-Up. This month's profile group, "Biotechs Target Cancer Metabolism," features profiles of Advanced Cancer Therapeutics, Cornerstone Pharmaceuticals and Dynamix Pharmaceuticals. Plus these Start-Ups Across Health Care: AlloCure, ArisGen, HistoSonics and NeuraviBiotechnology.

Our monthly update on technology transfer deals--licensing agreements between companies and universities or other research institutions--in the fields of life sciences, including pharmaceuticals, medical devices, in vitro diagnostics and research/analytical instrumentation and reagents.