Maria Staikopoulou, Haitham Hassan

Drug Discovery Today

DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2026.104658

Highlight

• A comprehensive review of kinase inhibitors discovered via DNA-encoded libraries (DELs) from 2009 to 2025.
• Analysis of chemical diversity, binding interactions and optimisation strategies driving DEL-based kinase inhibitor discovery.
• Mapping of 22 kinase targets across 17 families, including CMGC, tyrosine kinase, TKL and STE superfamilies.
• Strategic design recommendations for DEL scaffolds, heterocycles and covalent warheads to enhance selectivity and druglike properties.
• Future directions integrating DELs with artificial intelligence/machine learning and hybrid screening approaches to accelerate the development of selective kinase inhibitors.

Abstract

In this review, we summarise and analyse the structures and key characteristics of kinase inhibitors identified through DNA-encoded libraries (DELs) from 2009 to 2025. We focus on their chemical diversity, binding interactions and optimisation strategies that have driven progress in DEL-based kinase inhibitor discovery. Representative case studies highlight innovative approaches and successes in addressing therapeutic challenges associated with kinases. We also examine the general physicochemical properties of the identified compounds and map the kinase families most frequently targeted by DELs. Overall, 47 initial hits and 17 leads were evaluated for 24 kinase targets across 19 families. Our aim is to inspire further advancements in DEL technology and promote its application in the selective and efficient discovery of kinase inhibitors to accelerate drug development.