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.
Over the past couple of years, Laurence Hurley and his associated enterprise, Reglagene, have marked significant advancements:
Attribute | Information |
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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 |
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.
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.
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.