Targeted Protein Degraders: Transforming Oral Therapeutics

Targeted protein degraders (TPDs) are transforming modern drug discovery. Unlike traditional drugs that just block proteins, TPDs harness the body's natural processes to completely eliminate disease-causing proteins. This approach is opening up new treatment possibilities for conditions that were once considered untreatable, especially in oncology, neurodegenerative disorders, and immune-related diseases.

The potential of TPDs has attracted significant investment, with venture financing soaring from $33 million in 2017 to $707 million in 2022—an increase of over 2,000%. The global market, valued at around $544.4 million in 2024, is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20.8% from 2025 to 2030. However, despite their promise, TPDs still face major challenges related to formulation, bioavailability, and manufacturing scalability.