Health Podcast Library
Season 5Episode 3

Part 3 — Getting Attached to Molecular Glues

Nov 11, 2025
40:07

Episode Description

Protein-protein interactions facilitate numerous bodily processes – everything from the basics of how our muscles contract to the more complex ways cancer can spread through the body. So, what if there was a way to alter some of these interactions? Or even create new ones?

In this episode, we’re diving into the fascinating field of molecular glues, a revolutionary modality on the precipice of changing the treatment landscape for certain cancers and potentially other diseases and conditions. 

Featured Guests:
– Joyann Donaldson, Principal Scientist, Synthesis Group Lead, Pfizer
– Jennifer LaFontaine, Head of Oncology Medicinal Chemistry, Pfizer
– Neal Sach, Research Fellow, Pfizer
– Jillian Spangler, Associate Research Fellow, Pfizer

Dive into the episode here:
0:50 - A metaphor to explain molecular glues
2:36 - How do molecular glues work in the body?
5:57 - A new frontier for cancer treatment 
13:05 - The history behind molecular glues
16:59 - How do scientists design molecular glues?
19:05 - A visit to Pfizer’s La Jolla labs
32:42 - How can molecular glues change the patient experience?
36:42 - Molecular glues beyond cancer treatment

Season 5 of Science Will Win is created by Pfizer and hosted by Dr. Raven Baxter and Dr. Ronald Gamble. It’s produced by Acast Creative Studios.

Check out our social media platforms to take a deeper look into the labs and stories we discuss during the episodes: Instagram (@pfizerinc), TikTok (@pfizer)


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