New research published in Nature Chemical Biology reveals that the widely used KDM4 chemical probe QC6352 is also a potent DHODH inhibitor, with DHODH inhibition driving its antiproliferative effects in the glioblastoma models studied. The findings, which also extend to the clinical analogue zavondemstat, highlight the importance of orthogonal chemical probes and continuous reassessment of chemical-tool selectivity as new evidence emerges.

Twenty-nine students and six expert mentors gathered at Newcastle University’s Department of Chemistry for the 11th Chemical Probes Portal Hackathon. Focusing on the challenging area of covalent inhibitors, participants critically evaluated the literature, contributed to the Chemical Probes Portal, and gained hands-on experience in research quality and scientific collaboration, with support from the MoSMed Centre for Doctoral Training.

From 9 am to 1 pm, twenty PhD students and postdoctoral researchers worked alongside seven expert reviewers at the 10th Chemical Probes Hackathon in Naples. Together they produced 16 new reviews for the Chemical Probes Portal, helping researchers worldwide identify high-quality chemical probes. Hosted by EUFEPS and SITELF, the event combined hands-on learning, scientific discussion, networking, and even authentic Italian espresso—earning enthusiastic feedback from participants.