Sygnature formalises drug discovery collaboration with X-Chem
pharmafile | September 22, 2026 | News story | | DNA-encoded library screening, Sygnature Discovery, X-Chem, drug discovery collaboration
Sygnature Discovery has established a formal collaboration with drug discovery company X-Chem to integrate DNA-encoded library (DEL) screening into its drug discovery programmes.
The Nottingham-based contract research organisation (CRO) has used DEL screening as part of its hit-finding strategy, but the collaboration formalises access to X-Chem’s DEL platform, selection science and data analysis capabilities.
DEL screening allows billions of DNA-tagged small molecules to be screened simultaneously against a biological target. Compounds retained during the selection process are identified by sequencing their DNA tags, generating data that can help researchers identify chemical starting points for further investigation.
Under the collaboration, which formally began in August 2026, X-Chem will provide DEL screening, screening expertise and data analysis within Sygnature-led projects, which can span target protein production, screening, hit validation and optimisation.
The approach will sit alongside Sygnature’s other hit-finding capabilities, including affinity selection mass spectrometry (ASMS), fragment screening and traditional high-throughput screening (HTS). The company said the choice of technology will depend on the scientific requirements of individual programmes.
Rick Davies, Director of Protein Sciences and Structural Biology at Sygnature Discovery, said the collaboration would give project teams greater flexibility in selecting hit-finding approaches.
“DEL screening has been an important option within our hit-finding strategy for many years,” he said. “Formalising our relationship with [X-Chem] allows us to provide an even more streamlined and integrated experience for customers.”
Matt Clark, Co-Founder and Chief Scientific Officer at X-Chem, said the collaboration would allow DEL data to inform subsequent validation and chemistry work within Sygnature-led programmes.
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