Discovery of a novel series of potent S1P1 agonists.

The discovery of a novel series of S1P1 agonists is described. Starting from a micromolar HTS positive, iterative optimization gave rise to several single-digit nanomolar S1P1 agonists. The compounds were able to induce internalization of the S1P1 receptor, and a selected compound was shown to be able to induce lymphopenia in mice after oral dosing.

Creating and testing the concept of an academic NGO for enhancing health equity: a new mode of knowledge production?

Context: Collaborative action is required to address persistent and systematic health inequities which exist for most diseases in most countries of the world.

Objectives: The Academic NGO initiative (ACANGO) described in this paper was set up as a focused network giving priority to twinned partnerships between Academic research centres and community-based NGOs. ACANGO aims to capture the strengths of both in order to build consensus among stakeholders, engage the community, focus on leadership training, shared management and resource development and deployment.