Center for Drug Discovery

The Center for Drug Discovery (CDD) is a specialized research division within RTI International, a leading independent, nonprofit research institute based in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. The center focuses on the design, synthesis, and development of novel small molecule therapeutic agents, particularly for central nervous system (CNS) disorders, addiction, and pain management. CDD is globally recognized for its pioneering work in medicinal chemistry and pharmacology, maintaining a robust pipeline of candidates targeting the dopamine transporter and various opioid and cannabinoid receptors. Their lead clinical program, RTI-336, is a selective dopamine transporter inhibitor currently being evaluated in Phase 1 trials for the treatment of cocaine use disorder. The center operates through a combination of federal grants, primarily from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), and strategic collaborations with pharmaceutical and biotechnology partners.