New MCL1 protein construct solves previously intractable structural biology problem

As one of the most commonly altered genes in cancer, MCL1 has been the focus of widespread drug development efforts — but the gene, which encodes a protein that helps keep cells alive, remains an elusive target. A new finding published this week by Broad researchers is expected to catalyze the development of effective MCL1 inhibitors. The team, led by senior author Michael Serrano-Wu, designed a new MCL1 protein construct that provides a robust solution to a previously intractable structural biology problem. Their paper is published online in PLoS One.