EuroscreenFast
Advancing GPCR Drug Discovery with Expertise and Innovation

Decades of research has led to G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) becoming leading targets for therapeutic drugs, driving ground-breaking advancements in patient care. With a three-decade legacy in this dynamic field, EuroscreenFast has garnered long-term trust from its clients through consistent support of successful drug discovery programs.

The origins of EuroscreenFast trace back to the Université Libre de Bruxelles (Belgium), a renowned leader in GPCR science. This strong academic foundation facilitated EuroscreenFast’s rapid evolution into a provider of high-throughput screening (HTS) services, a crucial field not typically covered at the academic level. As the company’s growth continued, it expanded beyond HTS to include lead optimisation support, target discovery, and perhaps most interestingly, GPCR deorphanisation.

“Our goal always has been to ensure clients feel secure, knowing we will deliver exceptional service and care for their projects as though they were our own internal R&D programs, with the highest data quality in the shortest time. This is unmatched customer service,” says Dr. Laurent Meeus, chief scientist and general manager.

EuroscreenFast always starts with in-depth discussions to truly understand the client’s project. Thorough consultation ensures that the chosen assays perfectly suit clients’ needs, fostering strong and lasting partnerships. More than just a catalogue-based vendor, EuroscreenFast has the expertise to propose alternative strategies that clients might not have considered, leading to more meaningful and usable results.

Strong project management is key: examination of compounds upon receipt and efficient communication between its lab and the client allows for swift accommodation of any last-minute changes or requests, such as adding extra compounds to the assay or changing parameters. Even after data analysis and delivery of results, EuroscreenFast supports follow-up questions and offers guidance to interpret findings.

EuroscreenFast’s clients may be well versed in biological assays, but few have the 30-year track record that makes EuroscreenFast unrivalled GPCR experts.

To enhance value, EuroscreenFast’s scientists
review and interpret outputs before sharing them with clients rather than just offering a raw dataset. The result is a close, collaborative and engaging experience that is not often seen from other more transactional CROs. Dr. Meeus himself also works closely with the operating scientists while serving as the main point of contact for ongoing projects. This direct line of communication ensures quick responses at all stages throughout the project.

“Our cell lines are expertly validated, and we use a specific expression vector to ensure high-quality GPCR expression that is highly representative of the wild-type receptor. Beyond the screening itself, we excel in bespoke cell line and assay development. Where possible, we also include orthologue receptor cell lines for non-human species like mice, rats, monkeys and dogs. We also have the appropriate permits to screen controlled substances, which not many people realise,” says Brett Whitecross, Commercial Director.

This has ultimately concluded in the establishment of a comprehensive, ever-growing catalogue, which currently includes over 1,000 individual assays across over 530 GPCRs.

Beyond these core competencies, EuroscreenFast has an enviable track record when it comes to GPCR deorphanisation. Using its unique platform which includes access to a crucial library of tissue samples, the company has identified the natural binding ligand for 17 orphan GPCR receptors. With a number of ongoing deorphanisation programs, this this legacy will only be further solidified.

EuroscreenFast supports anyone developing GPCR targeting assets throughout the preclinical drug discovery process, from initial target identification to the optimisation and final selection of clinical candidates. With expertise and innovation, EuroscreenFast builds on its 30-year history and continues to be a pioneer in GPCR science.