Rethinking the Receptor Landscape for CNS Drug Delivery: Exploring Alternative Targets Beyond Transferrin for Receptor-Mediated Transport
Time: 9:00 am
day: Workshop A
Details:
Instead of relying solely on well-known receptor pathways, a new wave of research is uncovering alternative BBB targets with the potential to transform CNS drug delivery. By mapping receptor expression, engineering ligands for precision engagement, and harnessing receptor recycling, scientists are expanding the range of shuttle systems beyond transferrin. This workshop will examine the translational potential and validation challenges of these targets, and how they can synergize with biologics, gene therapies, and nanoparticle systems – giving you a practical framework to evaluate novel RMT strategies, improve biodistribution, and design safer, more effective CNS therapeutics.
This workshop will gather experts to discuss:
- Reassess the focus on transferrin. While transferrin-based strategies have known pros and cons, continued emphasis on justifying its use may hinder exploration of alternative targets
- Learn what makes emerging receptors potentially more selective for the BBB – and why specificity without peripheral expression is the holy grail for CNS delivery
- Discuss how having an array of shuttle-receptor pairs opens the door to modular, indication-specific strategies and reduces toxicity risk by optimizing biodistribution
