DNA-Encoded Libraries technology (DELt) is a recent screening technique used in early discovery for target validation and hit identification. The technology, based on the linkage of a small molecule to an identifier DNA code, allows the screening of billions of compounds simultaneously.
DEL include large collections of small molecules, individually coupled to DNA fragments, serving as amplifiable identification barcodes.
Typically, a core scaffold serves as a centerpiece and has 2 to 4 exit vectors for coupling capping agents (one of them being used to link the DNA fragment).
This means that around each core scaffold, small focused libraries of hundreds of compounds become available and are screened at the same time. The result is a direct read out of an early SAR (Structure-Activity Relationship), which is not possible in a standard HTS. It therefore generates hits that are already very advanced and hopefully require less follow-up chemistry.