Metabolic Disease Drug Discovery— “Hitting the Target” Is Easier Said Than Done

Despite the advent of new drug classes, the global epidemic of cardiometabolic disease has not abated. Continuing unmet medical needs remain a major driver for new research. Drug discovery approaches in this field have mirrored industry trends, leading to a recent increase in the number of molecules entering development. However, worrisome trends and newer hurdles are also apparent. The history of two newer drug classes—glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors—illustrates both progress and challenges. Future success requires that researchers learn from these experiences and continue to explore and apply new technology platforms and research paradigms.