

Drug Discovery Phases
Excellerate offers expertise in molecular and cellular pharmacology techniques throughout the preclinical drug discovery process.
With a proven track record of success, we provide scientific support across diverse therapeutic areas, working collaboratively to drive your research forward.

At Excellerate, we develop comprehensive packages to assess the biological relevance and druggability of novel targets.
Our expertise spans multiple target classes and therapeutic areas, leveraging our technologies to provide data-driven insights for drug discovery programs. By integrating molecular, cellular, and functional assays, we support target ID and validation from early discovery through preclinical development.
Expression Profiling: mRNA and protein-level analysis using qPCR, flow cytometry, Western blot, and immunofluorescence imaging
Functional Phenotypic Assays: Assessment of target activity in primary cells and disease-relevant models
Compound Library Screening: Profiling against known pathway modulators and approved drugs
Recombinant Target Generation: Production of engineered cell lines and recombinant proteins for validation studies
siRNA/Nucleofection Studies: Gene knockdown approaches for target validation in relevant cell lines
Biomarker ID & Validation: Characterization of predictive and pharmacodynamic biomarkers
Binding Assays: High-throughput target engagement studies e.g. HTRF, TR-FRET, and BRET platforms

Excellerate provides the expertise and support needed for efficient hit-to-lead projects, ensuring timely progression to a lead series.
Our assay development spans diverse targets and screening formats, integrating orthogonal validation and mechanism of action studies to refine compound selection.
High-Throughput & Focused Screening: MTS/HTS library screening for rapid identification of hits
Orthogonal Assays: Elimination of false positives through secondary confirmation and counter-screening
Mechanism of Action & SAR Studies – Detailed structure-activity relationship (SAR) profiling and target engagement validation
Compound Library Management: Proficiency in handling third-party and custom libraries for streamlined screening cascades and data management (e.g. Dotmatics)
Comprehensive Profiling: Screening cascades ranging from large-scale HTS (100k+ compounds) down to single-molecule mechanistic studies
Phenotypic Screening: Single-molecule and synergistic studies, selectivity panels, and cytotoxicity assays
Functional & Kinetic Analysis: Cellular and biochemical assays measuring binding kinetics, association/dissociation rates

Excellerate provides expert lead optimization support, refining lead molecules into preclinical candidates.
Through close collaboration with our clients, our senior scientific team develops tailored screening strategies, selecting assays suited to the drug class, target, and therapeutic indication.
Comprehensive Compound Profiling: Robust assay validation to refine lead series and optimize potency, selectivity, and pharmacological properties
Automated Workflows: Use of liquid handling systems and robotics to improve efficiency and assay reproducibility
Iterative Screening & Reporting: Rapid data turnaround to minimize iterative screening cycle time
Data Integration & Management: Seamless alignment with client data platforms for informed decision-making
Compound Management: Coordination with third-party providers for compound handling and logistics
Strategic Project Support: Active participation in project meetings, providing expert guidance on in vitro pharmacology to support client milestones

Excellerate specialize in detailed mechanistic characterization of drug candidates, enabling data-driven decision making in late preclinical candidate studies.
Utilizing a tailored approach to our clients requirements, we perform phenotypic screening, matrix studies, and advanced cell-based assays to provide insights into candidate efficacy and mechanism of action, to support in regulatory submissions and publications.
Mechanism of Action Studies: Detailed biochemical and cellular approaches, including binding kinetics, cell pathway modulation, and specific target engagement studies
Competitor Compound Comparison: Direct side-by-side analysis to differentiate candidates and highlight unique pharmacological attributes
Toxicology/Cytotoxicity Assays: Comprehensive cell health assessments, including apoptosis, necrosis, and metabolic viability measurements
Phenotypic Screening Strategies: High-content imaging and functional assays to assess compound effects on cellular morphology, viability, and signaling pathways
Scientific Data Packages: Development of robust data packages to support scientific publications and regulatory submissions