Laurence Hurley (Reglagene)
Overview
Laurence Hurley, Ph.D., is a renowned scientist in the field of medicinal chemistry, particularly recognized for his work on G-quadruplexes and other secondary DNA structures. Born in Birmingham, England, Hurley holds the Howard J. Schaeffer Endowed Chair in Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Arizona and serves as co-director of the Molecular Therapeutics Program at the university's Cancer Center. He is the Chief Scientific Officer and a founder of Reglagene, a biotech company focusing on the discovery and development of therapeutic agents for brain diseases and cancer. Known for pioneering research that explores the potential of DNA structures in drug design, Hurley's work has influenced the development of several anticancer drugs.
Recent Developments
Over the past couple of years, Laurence Hurley and his associated enterprise, Reglagene, have marked significant advancements:
- 2024: Reglagene received FDA Fast Track designation for Pidnarulex, a DNA quadruplex-targeting therapy, advancing Hurley's research into clinical contexts.
- 2024: Reglagene was awarded a place in the Texas Medical Center's Accelerator for Cancer Therapeutics program, signaling a decisive move in the commercialization and regulatory preparedness of its brain-penetrant cancer therapies.
- 2023: Reglagene secured $5.4 million in Series A funding to further its research into brain cancer therapies, focusing on therapies that cross the blood-brain barrier effectively.
- 2023: Dr. Laurence Hurley’s contributions to medicinal chemistry were celebrated in a special issue of Medicinal Chemistry Research, highlighting his exploration of DNA structures in drug development.
- 2023: The University of Arizona technology licensing office recognized Reglagene for innovations in transforming brain cancer treatment, asserting the company's growing influence in biotechnological advancements relating to oncology.
Personal Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Laurence Hurley |
| Born | 1944, Birmingham, England |
| Nationality | British |
| Occupation | Professor, Chief Scientific Officer |
| Known For | G-quadruplex research and drug discovery |
| Education | B.Pharm, Bath University; Ph.D., Purdue University |
Early Life and Education
Laurence Hurley was born in Birmingham, England, in 1944. His early education was marked by challenges as he initially failed his Eleven-plus exam, a critical determinant in the British educational system. However, with guidance and support from his father, who valued education, Hurley gained admission to Bordesley Green Technical School. Excelling in subjects like chemistry, he later attended Bath University, earning a Bachelor of Pharmacy in 1967. Hurley pursued his doctoral studies at Purdue University, focusing on natural products chemistry, which set the foundation for his future in drug discovery. His postdoctoral research at the University of British Columbia further honed his expertise in medicinal chemistry.
Career and Notable Achievements
- University Tenures: Laurence Hurley has served at various prestigious institutions, including the University of Maryland, University of Kentucky, University of Texas at Austin, and University of Arizona.
- Research Contributions: Hurley is acclaimed for his research into DNA structures like G-quadruplexes, which involve innovative approaches to modulating gene expression for cancer treatment.
- Drug Development: His work led to the development of Quarfloxin, a pioneering G-quadruplex-interactive molecule that reached phase II clinical trials.
- Awards: Hurley has been honored with multiple awards, such as the 2007 Innovator of the Year by the University of Arizona and the 2005 George and Christine Sosnovsky Award in Cancer Therapy from the Royal Society of Chemistry.
Current Work and Impact
Currently, Laurence Hurley is deeply involved in advancing Reglagene's pipeline of therapies aimed at treating brain cancers. His leadership in the development of small-molecule drugs demonstrates significant potential for impacting drug-resistant cancers by targeting secondary DNA structures. His pioneering approaches in drug discovery continue to pave the way for future oncological treatments.
Conclusion
Laurence Hurley’s career is characterized by groundbreaking contributions to the field of medicinal chemistry, specifically through his exploration of DNA structures for therapeutic applications. His impactful research and entrepreneurial initiatives with Reglagene represent a pivotal movement in cancer therapy, particularly in brain disease treatment. As new therapies reach clinical trials, Hurley's legacy is poised to shape future innovations in drug development, potentially offering hope to patients facing formidable diseases.