Delta4

Author: Kurt Herpel

  • Advancing Healthcare Through Drug Discovery Services: Unleashing the Power of Innovation

    Advancing Healthcare Through Drug Discovery Services: Unleashing the Power of Innovation

    In the realm of healthcare, the journey from a promising drug idea to an effective therapy is not a straightforward one. The process of drug discovery is highly complex and generally takes years from the initial idea to – in an ideal scenario – the final approval. It requires experts from different fields, therefore making it often crucial to use drug discovery services providing special skills, experience, and in-depth knowledge.

    Let’s delve into the world of drug discovery services (which can be quite helpful in the initial phase) by exploring popular methods used to uncover potential drug candidates. Additionally, we’ll examine the challenges of drug discovery and the advantages of leveraging the biotech companies that are shaping the landscape and making an impact on global healthcare.

    What is it? – Understanding Drug Discovery

    Drug discovery is a multifaceted process that spans several stages, each demanding precise expertise and coordinated teamwork. This collaborative endeavor brings together scientific disciplines like medicinal chemistry, medicine, pharmacology, biology, and computational technologies to identify potential drug candidates that can target specific diseases, conditions, and syndromes.

    Drug discovery services offered by specialized companies can provide crucial support in each phase, leveraging their expertise to expedite the search for life-saving therapies.

    How Does It Happen – Popular Drug Discovery Methods

    Molecular Modeling

    Molecular modeling, a highly relevant technique in computer-driven drug discovery services, employs computational algorithms to simulate drug-target interactions in silico. This can be based on interactive networks of all genes relevant to a certain disease or affected by a given drug or chemical compound. With the insight gained from molecular modeling, scientists can predict the behavior of drug molecules within biological systems better. This allows for informed decisions on potential drug candidates before laboratory testing, reducing time and resources spent on less promising compounds. Delta4 has long-standing experience in generating and optimizing such molecular mechanism of action (MoA) networks.

    High-Throughput Screening (HTS)

    High-throughput screening is a powerful method used by drug discovery service providers to test vast libraries of chemical compounds in vitro quickly. By employing sophisticated screening platforms, HTS identifies potential drug candidates that exhibit desired pharmacological properties as seen by a simple, automatized read-out in vitro, like inducing apoptosis in a cancer cell while sparing normal cells. The efficiency in evaluating thousands of compounds accelerates the early-stage drug discovery process, making it an important tool in pharmaceutical research.

    Target-Based Screening

    Target-based screening focuses on specific biological targets central for disease progression and the drugs directly regulating these targets. Drug discovery service providers utilize assays and specialized technologies to evaluate the activity of potential drug candidates against these targets. This approach is particularly effective in diseases with well-defined underlying biological targets, such as certain types of cancer or genetic diseases.

    Phenotypic Screening

    Phenotypic screening evaluates the observable change within an entire biological system, making it an ideal approach for complex diseases with less understood mechanisms. Drug discovery services use phenotypic screening to identify compounds that induce desirable changes in the disease phenotype, opening new avenues for therapeutic intervention.

    Integrated Drug Discovery

    Integrated drug discovery services adopt a comprehensive approach, merging various techniques and expertise to streamline the drug development process. By combining medicinal chemistry, medicine, biology, and computational methods, integrated drug discovery offers a holistic view of potential drug candidates. This collaborative effort maximizes the chances of identifying promising compounds and expedites the journey to clinical trials.

    Challenges Faced by Drug Discovery Service Providers

    Stringent Regulations

    One of the foremost challenges in drug discovery and development is navigating the complex regulatory landscape. Drug discovery service providers must be well-versed in compliance standards and safety protocols to adhere to regulatory guidelines. Therefore, CROs are often contracted to assist. Contract Research Organizations (CROs) are organizations that take the lead in managing a company’s trials and complex medical testing responsibilities.

    Regulatory authorities are responsible to ensure the safety and efficacy of new drugs before they can be approved and reach patients.

    Throughout the drug discovery process, meticulous attention to detail is essential to meet regulatory expectations. From conducting preclinical studies to evaluating potential drug candidates, every step must be thoroughly documented and scrutinized. By ensuring compliance with stringent regulations, drug discovery service providers contribute to the reliability and credibility of their clients’ drug development programs.

    Intellectual Contribution and Property Rights

    Intellectual property rights and ownership of discoveries are crucial aspects of drug discovery services. Addressing issues related to intellectual property and data ownership requires careful negotiation and legal expertise. Drug discovery service providers must safeguard their intellectual contributions while respecting the rights of their clients.

    In a highly competitive industry, protecting proprietary technologies and solutions is essential. By implementing robust confidentiality agreements and maintaining meticulous records, drug discovery service providers can preserve the innovations they bring to the drug development process.

    Timely Delivery and Market Pressures

    The drug discovery timeline is a delicate balance between delivering high-quality research and meeting market pressures. Pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies aim to bring drugs to market as quickly as possible to address critical healthcare needs and stay competitive. However, rushing the drug discovery process may compromise the quality of research and ultimately the safety of potential therapies and therefore success of the whole drug discovery project.

    Drug discovery service providers face the challenge to shorten the time span and costs of the whole developmental process without compromising accuracy and quality. By employing efficient, novel research methodologies, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and data mining, and optimizing workflows, they can contribute to more time- and cost-efficient and even more successful drug development.

    Adverse Effects and Safety Concerns

    Patient safety is paramount in drug development, and addressing adverse effects is a critical challenge of the highest importance. Rigorous safety assessments and risk management strategies are integral to identifying and minimizing potential safety concerns.

    In silico modeling and comprehensive preclinical testing, including in vitro and in vivo studies help detect any potential adverse effects early in the drug discovery process before the start of clinical trials. By collaborating closely with clients and regulatory authorities, drug discovery service providers can prevent costly setbacks, mitigate safety risks and contribute to the development of safer therapeutic options.

    Collaboration and Data Sharing

    In the age of collaborative science, sharing sensitive information while protecting intellectual property can be challenging.

    By leveraging secure data-sharing platforms and establishing transparent collaboration practices, biotech companies can help foster an environment of innovation and knowledge exchange. Collaboration among experts from different domains often leads to breakthroughs that shape the future of drug discovery.

    The Drug Discovery Services Market

    The market for drug discovery services is witnessing significant growth, with North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America holding substantial market shares. Leading companies specializing in drug discovery services are driving innovation and advancements in the pharmaceutical industry. These providers offer a diverse range of service offerings, backed by scientific expertise, strong track records, and timely delivery, enabling pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies to make informed decisions in drug development.

    Advantages of Drug Discovery Services

    Outsourcing drug discovery activities to specialized service providers offers several advantages to pharmaceutical companies. Drug discovery services enable cost-effective and efficient drug development, potentially outsourcing certain risks and responsibilities, and optimizing resources while leveraging expert teams with strong track records in drug discovery. By partnering with drug discovery service providers that have specialized skills, knowledge, and experience, pharmaceutical companies gain a competitive edge in the fast-paced biopharmaceutical industry.

    There are multiple players in this space each offering a variety of different drug discovery methods and approaches. Here at Delta4, we focus on indication expansion (i.e. finding new diseases that could be targeted by an already approved drug) and drug repurposing (i.e. finding new mechanistic drug-disease interactions for the establishment of novel therapies) esp. based on network interference leveraging various services and repositioning approaches.

    The Pioneers of Global Healthcare

    Drug discovery services are the vanguards in the pursuit of transformative medicines. By utilizing cutting-edge technologies and collaborating across disciplines, these services play an integral role in the modern drug discovery process. By identifying new drug candidates, developing or optimizing new concepts, navigating stringent regulations, safeguarding intellectual property, and prioritizing patient safety, drug discovery service providers play a critical role in drug development. Embracing collaboration and data sharing, they create a dynamic ecosystem that accelerates innovation and improves the lives of countless patients worldwide. With determination, expertise, and a commitment to excellence, drug discovery service providers continue to push the boundaries of medical science and shape the future of healthcare.

    To learn more about Delta4 and the latest news in the space, be sure to check out our latest news and updates.

  • What is Drug Discovery? Unveiling the Process, Challenges, and Future

    What is Drug Discovery? Unveiling the Process, Challenges, and Future

    In the intricate world of healthcare, the journey of a drug from a basic idea to a therapy that can change lives is a challenging one. This process, known as drug discovery, is a rigorous, meticulous, and elaborate journey that requires a high level of expertise in various fields such as biology, chemistry, computer science, and medicine.

    The Basics of Drug Discovery

    Drug discovery is a comprehensive process that involves identifying active compounds, known as drugs, which have the potential to alter the course of a disease or condition. These therapeutic agents can stem from numerous sources, including biologicals, synthetic chemicals, natural products, or even repurposing existing drugs for new indications.

    The field of drug discovery is continually evolving. Modern drug discovery incorporates a wide range of techniques, from traditional experimental approaches to the increasingly prominent role of computational approaches, such as computer-aided drug design, AI-driven drug repurposing, and virtual screening. The primary goal remains the same: to identify chemical compounds that can modulate a biological target or signaling pathway associated with a disease to produce a desired therapeutic effect.

    The Drug Discovery Process

    The process of drug discovery begins with the identification of a suitable biological target, a molecule or pathway in the human body that can be influenced by a drug to alter the progression of a disease. This target could be a protein involved in cell proliferation in cancer or a receptor that contributes to cardiovascular diseases.

    Once a biological target is identified, a chemical library – an extensive collection of diverse chemical compounds – is used for screening. High-Throughput Screening (HTS) is a method often employed to test these chemical compounds rapidly. The aim is to identify active compounds, often called “hits”, which show a desired biological activity against the selected target.

    Candidate compounds, or hits, are then subjected to further testing. Medicinal chemistry plays a critical role in this phase. It is the job of medicinal chemists to modify the chemical structures of these hits to improve their activity, selectivity, and drug-like properties.

    Drug Development: Taking the Leap from Lab to Clinic

    When a drug candidate is selected, it moves from the drug discovery phase to the drug development process. This stage includes preclinical testing, where the drug is studied in vitro (in test tubes or Petri dishes) and in vivo (in animal models) to evaluate its safety and effectiveness.

    The preclinical phase also involves testing for any potential adverse events and determining appropriate administration routes and dosage. It is crucial to ascertain the drug’s safety profile before moving to clinical studies involving humans.

    After successful preclinical testing, the drug candidate enters the clinical application stage. This involves a series of clinical trials, conducted in several phases, to further evaluate the drug’s safety, dosage, efficacy, and potential side effects in humans.

    Check out this blog post to learn more about the drug discovery pipeline or view Delta4’s pipeline for an example of the process.

    Challenges and Innovation in Drug Discovery

    Despite the precise and rigorous nature of the process, drug discovery and development come with their share of challenges. The attrition rate, or failure rate, is high. Many compounds that start the journey do not make it to the end. This is due to various reasons, including failure in efficacy, unexpected side effects, or commercial considerations.

    Therefore, computational approaches such as computer-aided drug discovery are also gaining traction. These methods use advanced algorithms and machine learning techniques to predict how a drug candidate might behave, thus reducing the reliance on trial and error.

    Drug Repurposing and Modern Drug Discovery

    In addition to the traditional drug discovery process, drug repurposing is a modern approach gaining increasing attention. This involves exploring new uses for existing drugs, an approach that leads to a faster, higher success rate while at the same time being cost-effective.

    For instance, Delta4 uses a sophisticated algorithmic intelligence platform called Hyper-C to identify undetected relationships between existing drugs with known safety profiles and diseases at a molecular level. The platform integrates data from various sources, including scientific literature, clinical trials, and dedicated biomedical databases, accelerating the discovery process.

    This approach can significantly reduce the time and cost associated with bringing a drug to market.

    Looking to the Future of Drug Discovery

    As we venture further into the 21st century, the field of drug discovery is expected to undergo significant changes, driven by advancements in technology and computational sciences. These advancements will not only streamline the drug discovery process but also make it more efficient and cost-effective. The following are some of the technologies and techniques that are predicted to shape the future.

    Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are playing an increasingly important role in drug discovery. AI-powered platforms are already demonstrating how these technologies can significantly expedite the drug discovery process by identifying potential drug-disease relationships that would otherwise remain undetected.

    In the future, we can expect AI and ML to be even more heavily leveraged. They will enable the analysis of vast datasets, leading to more accurate predictions of drug effectiveness and safety profiles. AI and ML will also be used to model complex biological systems and predict how potential drugs will interact with these systems.

    Quantum Computing

    Quantum computing, still in its nascent stage, holds tremendous potential for the future of drug discovery. Traditional computers are limited in their capacity to model large, complex molecules. Quantum computers, on the other hand, can process and analyze these complex molecular structures with higher accuracy and speed.

    This will enable researchers to better understand the properties of potential drugs and how they interact with biological targets. By reducing the complexity and time needed to model molecular interactions, quantum computing could drastically shorten the drug discovery timeline.

    Genomics and Personalized Medicine

    The future will also be influenced by advancements in genomics. As our understanding of the human genome improves, it will become increasingly easier to select drugs based on an individual’s unique genetic makeup.

    This approach, known as personalized medicine, aims to increase the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions by tailoring them to individual patients. Personalized medicine could lead to the development of drugs that are highly effective in treating specific genetic disorders, thereby revolutionizing the field of drug discovery. 

    Closing Thoughts

    Despite the challenges, the pharmaceutical industry is committed to improving global health. But it’s the tireless efforts, innovation, and resilience displayed by the people in this field that reflect the indomitable human spirit to overcome adversities and secure a healthier future for all.

    As we continue to navigate this exciting landscape, we, at Delta4, remain hopeful for what lies ahead in the field of drug discovery. The journey may be long, but it is one worth embarking upon for the sake of humanity’s well-being.

  • Delta4 Identifies a Potential New Therapeutic Option for Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) using computational Hyper-C Drug Discovery Platform

    Delta4 Identifies a Potential New Therapeutic Option for Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) using computational Hyper-C Drug Discovery Platform

    Delta4, a digital drug discovery company, identified a potential therapeutic option for Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) using their Hyper-C AI software platform.

    The anti-platelet drug clopidogrel was among the top predictions and was shown to alleviate disease progression in an accepted FSGS animal model, suggesting it is a promising candidate for clinical trials.

    May 24, 2023 – Delta4, a pioneering digital drug discovery company specializing in identifying new therapeutic indications for drugs with established safety profiles, has made a promising breakthrough in the search for novel treatments for Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS).

    FSGS is a severe glomerular lesion typically associated with nephrotic syndrome and carries a high risk of kidney disease progression. The current therapeutic landscape for FSGS is inadequate, highlighting an urgent need for targeted therapies that focus on specific molecular pathways.

    clopi_graph

    Delta4, leveraging its state-of-the-art proprietary AI platform, Hyper-C, combined with the expertise of its computational biologists, has generated a network-based molecular model of FSGS pathophysiology. This unique approach allowed the comprehensive evaluation of compounds for their potential interference with the molecular processes underlying FSGS.

    Through its advanced computational screening, Delta4 has identified clopidogrel, an anti-platelet drug, as a promising therapeutic candidate for FSGS. Clopidogrel demonstrated noteworthy potential in improving key FSGS outcome parameters and reducing histopathological damage, as evidenced in the Adriamycin FSGS mouse model.

    clopi_leadcompound

    “Clopidogrel’s favorable safety profile and its efficacy in the mouse model position it as a promising candidate for clinical trials in FSGS,” said Dr. Paul Perco, Delta4’s Computational Biology Lead and author of the manuscript recently published in Translational Research. “Our innovative use of AI and computational biology opens up a new pathway to quickly identify safe and effective treatments for complex diseases like FSGS,” said Kurt Herpel, CEO of Delta4. 

    This is an important breakthrough and a glimpse into the future of the industry because AI was leveraged to analyze enormous amounts of data to help identify this novel therapeutic option. Delta4 is committed to using its AI capabilities and deep scientific understanding to revolutionize drug discovery and provide new therapeutic solutions for rare diseases with underserved medical needs.

    clopi_leadcompound2

    To delve deeper into the research and its significant findings, the full paper is now available on Translational Research. To discover more about Delta4, its pioneering work, and its promising research and development pipeline, please visit delta4.ai.

    “Our innovative use of AI and computational biology opens up a new pathway to quickly identify safe and effective treatments for complex diseases like FSGS.”

    Kurt Herpel

    About Delta4:

    Delta4 is a digital drug discovery company focused on identifying new indications for drugs with known safety profiles. They achieve this by utilizing the best in AI technology, combined with the expertise of their exceptional computational biologists. Delta4 was founded in 2019. The company is based in Vienna, Austria.

  • Understanding the Drug Discovery Pipeline: From the Lab to the Patient

    Understanding the Drug Discovery Pipeline: From the Lab to the Patient

    The world of pharmaceuticals is complex and layered. At the heart of this realm is the drug discovery pipeline, a multi-stage process that transforms scientific concepts into life-saving therapies. We’re going to explore the journey that a drug takes from the initial discovery or identification to clinical trials and ultimately into the hands of patients.

    What is a Drug Discovery Pipeline?

    The drug discovery pipeline represents the stages of research and development that a new therapeutic undergoes before it reaches the market. It begins with a concept – a disease to be treated, a biological target to be affected, or a chemical compound with potential therapeutic effects. The pipeline then encompasses a range of studies, from laboratory experiments to clinical trials involving real-world patients. The end goal is a safe, effective therapy that can enhance or even save lives.

    Steps in the Drug Discovery Pipeline

    The drug discovery pipeline involves several key steps. Naturally, every company manages the details differently. However, at a high level, most steps are fairly universal.

    1. Identification of Drug Target: This is the first step where a potential drug target, usually a protein or gene associated with a disease, is identified.
    2. Drug Screening and Design: Potential drugs that can interact with the identified target are screened and designed. Here, computational models and computational chemistry are employed to predict how a potential drug will interact with its target and optimize its structure for maximum effectiveness.
    3. Preclinical Testing: Once a promising drug candidate has been identified, it undergoes preclinical testing. This involves laboratory studies and animal models to assess the drug’s safety and efficacy.
    4. Clinical Trials: If the drug proves safe and effective in preclinical studies, it moves to the clinical trial stage. This entails testing the drug in humans, starting with small safety trials and progressing to larger studies that assess both safety and effectiveness.
    5. Regulatory Approval: Throughout the drug discovery process, the potential drug must meet stringent standards set by regulatory bodies. In the United States, this is the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), in the European Union, it’s the European Medicines Agency (EMA), and in the United Kingdom, it’s the Drug Discovery Foundation.

    The History of the Drug Discovery Pipeline

    The concept of a drug discovery pipeline has been around for decades, evolving with advances in technology and our understanding of biology. The early pharmaceutical industry was driven by the isolation of active compounds from natural sources like plants and animals. This process was largely empirical and heavily dependent on trial and error.

    The evolution of scientific knowledge and technology transformed the drug discovery approach. As our understanding of biology expanded, so did our ability to identify and understand the molecular and cellular processes that cause disease. The development of sophisticated techniques allowed for the isolation and characterization of proteins and genes associated with various diseases. This led to a shift from empirical drug discovery to a more targeted approach. Researchers began designing drugs based on specific biological targets, marking a significant milestone in the history of drug discovery.

    This target-based approach has become the standard in the pharmaceutical industry, thanks to advances in genomics and proteomics that have greatly expanded our knowledge of disease processes.

    Today’s drug discovery pipeline is not just sophisticated, but also highly regulated. Rigorous standards and regulations are in place to ensure the safety and efficacy of new drugs. From initial target identification to preclinical testing and clinical trials, every stage of the pipeline is meticulously monitored and controlled, ensuring that every new drug brought to market is both safe and effective.

    How AI Changed the Drug Discovery Pipeline

    In the last few years, artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionized the drug discovery pipeline. It has infused the process with unprecedented speed, precision, and efficiency, thus drastically altering how we identify and develop new drugs.

    Biotech companies leverage AI to analyze vast amounts of data, identify patterns, and enhance predictive modeling by analyzing past results faster than human researchers alone. This has allowed us to identify potential drug targets and screen compounds more efficiently and cost-effectively than ever before, significantly speeding up the early stages of drug discovery. 

    One of the primary ways AI is changing drug discovery is through the use of computational models. These models, driven by AI algorithms, can predict how a potential drug will interact with its target in the body. This ability to simulate drug-target interactions is instrumental in optimizing the drug’s structure to maximize efficacy.

    Beyond drug design, AI also plays a critical role in safety assessments. It can help identify potential safety issues early in the drug discovery process, thereby reducing the risk of expensive failures in later stages. AI algorithms can analyze data from preclinical trials to predict potential adverse effects, allowing researchers to address these issues well before the drug reaches clinical trials.

    AI has not only revolutionized the drug discovery pipeline becoming an indispensable tool in the drug design and optimization process but is also shaping its future.

    A Drug Discovery Pipeline Example: Delta4’s Approach

    At Delta4, we’re leveraging the power of AI to discover new therapies for complex and rare diseases. Our AI-driven drug discovery pipeline utilizes Hyper-C, our AI-powered platform that analyzes large amounts of data to discover relationships between drugs and diseases. It allows us to identify potential new uses for existing drugs with known safety profiles, accelerating the initial stages of the process and reducing the risk of late-stage failures.

    Our drug discovery pipeline includes several ongoing projects aimed at treating a range of conditions, from Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) to Long-COVID-19 Anosmia among others. 

    You’ll notice many of the stages that we addressed earlier and how each of the compounds is progressing through them. The process doesn’t involve simply waiting to see which compounds succeed. The path can uncover exciting discoveries as well as important research and results that are shared with the world.

    Together, biotech companies are tackling many of the most challenging diseases we face. Both technology and our understanding are growing exponentially and diminishing the time it takes to put life-saving therapeutics in the hands of patients.

    Subscribe to our newsletter below to learn more about the work we do, important developments as we push our compounds through the pipeline, and news and developments in the pharmaceutical industry.

  • The Transformative Role of AI in Pharma – An Exploration

    The Transformative Role of AI in Pharma – An Exploration

    What is Artificial Intelligence?

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a field of computer science that aims to mimic human intelligence, enabling machines to learn from experience, adjust to new inputs, and perform tasks that normally require human intelligence. It’s a broad term encompassing various technologies, including machine learning, natural language processing, and vision technologies.

    AI’s impact extends across numerous sectors, including healthcare, automotive, finance, and notably, the pharmaceutical industry. Its adoption in pharma has been particularly noteworthy, marking a significant shift in the industry’s approach to drug discovery, clinical trials, and overall business strategy.

    The Role of AI in Pharma

    AI has emerged as a critical component in the pharmaceutical industry, revolutionizing drug discovery, clinical trials, and supply chain management. It’s influencing the way pharma companies operate, from improving efficiency in the manufacturing process to enhancing the quality of life for patients.

    Pharmaceutical companies leverage AI in the drug discovery process, using machine learning models to identify potential drug targets and predict the effectiveness of drug candidates. This approach significantly accelerates the process of finding effective drugs, saving billions of dollars and precious time.

    AI’s role extends to clinical trials, where it is used for patient selection, improving study design, and reducing clinical study terminations. AI technologies can analyze medical records to identify suitable candidates, considering factors such as medical history, current health status, and exclusion criteria. This results in a more streamlined and successful drug trial process.

    Many important applications of AI and predictive analytics in the pharma industry are in drug discovery, drug repurposing, and patient selection. By analyzing large datasets and identifying patterns, AI tools enable pharma companies to better understand disease mechanisms, identify patients who will respond favorably to a drug, and consequently develop more effective products. These applications save time, resources, and ultimately improve patient lives.

    Moreover, AI and predictive analytics are increasingly being used to improve operations in sales and commercial teams. These technologies help integrate insights from large datasets, streamline sales call planning, predict market trends, segment customers effectively, enhance product launch strategies, and alleviate advertising spend inefficiencies.

    In terms of supply chain management, AI aids in predictive maintenance and optimization of workflows, reducing downtime and enhancing productivity for teams.

    Case Studies of AI in Pharma

    Several case studies illustrate the significant impact of AI in pharma. One notable example is the AI-driven drug discovery company, Exscientia, which used AI to design a drug molecule for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder. The AI-designed drug advanced into clinical trials in less than 12 months, a process that typically takes years.

    Boehringer Ingelheim, a leading pharmaceutical company, used AI for drug repurposing. In collaboration with Insilico Medicine, they utilized AI to discover new therapeutic uses for existing drugs, maximizing the impact of their existing portfolio.

    Most recently, here at Delta4, we utilized our proprietary platform, Hyper-C, to discover a new indication for an existing drug. Our paper, published on Translational Research, demonstrates that Clopidrogel is a promising candidate for clinical trials as a therapeutic option for Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS).

    These case studies highlight how AI is accelerating the pace of drug discovery, enhancing the efficiency of clinical trials, and consequently, will improve patient outcomes.

    Challenges and Limitations of AI in Pharma

    Despite its transformative potential, the integration of AI in pharma comes with challenges. Data privacy is a major concern, as AI models require vast amounts of patient data to function effectively. Ensuring the protection of this data while complying with regulations is a complex task.

    Moreover, the pharmaceutical industry, being highly regulated, faces challenges in adopting new technologies. The harmonization of coding approaches and ensuring the technology infrastructure aligns with the stringent standards of the industry can be demanding.

    Finally, AI is not a magic bullet. It can help identify potential drug candidates and optimize trials. Still, it cannot replace the nuanced understanding and expertise of dedicated teams of scientists who understand the complexities of diseases and drug interactions.

    Future Prospects of AI in Pharma

    The future of AI in pharma looks promising. According to the McKinsey Technology Trends Outlook 2022, AI is expected to continue revolutionizing the industry, driving advancements in personalized medicine, predictive analytics, and drug adherence.

    Pharmaceutical companies are expected to form more partnerships with AI-driven companies and academic institutions to drive innovation. These marquee partnerships will lead to more AI-driven solutions, improving the overall success rate of drug development and impacting millions of lives.

    AI’s impact on the pharma industry is unquestionable, and the future is even more promising. Predictive analytics technologies are becoming vital tools for pharma companies, allowing them to understand their customers better and make more informed decisions regarding their market strategies.

    The global AI in pharma market, currently valued at $900M, is projected to reach over $9B by 2030, emphasizing the potential of AI and predictive analytics to revolutionize the industry. 

    AI could also enable a more personalized approach to treating chronic diseases like cancer and pulmonary fibrosis, creating drug combinations tailored to individual patient’s genetic makeup and disease progression.

    AI has already started to rewrite the rules in pharma, and its potential is vast. As we look to the future, AI’s role will continue to expand, transforming every facet of the pharma industry, from drug discovery to clinical trials to business operations. The impact will be profound, and the promise for patients worldwide is immense.

    The pharmaceutical industry is on the cusp of an AI revolution, and it’s an exciting time to be a part of it. As AI continues to evolve and mature, it will undoubtedly become an even more integral part of pharma’s approach to improving human health. The journey has just begun, and the future holds tremendous promise.

  • Delta4 CEO Kurt Herpel Featured in Insightscare Magazine: A Vision for the Future of Drug Discovery

    Delta4 CEO Kurt Herpel Featured in Insightscare Magazine: A Vision for the Future of Drug Discovery

    We are incredibly proud to share that our esteemed CEO, Kurt Herpel, has recently been profiled in Insightscare Magazine. In the article titled “Kurt Herpel: Revolutionizing Drug Discovery Through Artificial Intelligence,” Kurt shares his vision for the future of drug discovery, highlighting the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in advancing healthcare solutions.

    AI and Drug Discovery

    Kurt firmly believes that AI represents one of the most exciting frontiers of innovation, with the potential to revolutionize the way drugs are discovered and developed. Traditional drug discovery processes, while yielding significant advancements over the years, often involve laborious trial-and-error methods. These approaches, despite being guided by extensive research and brilliant minds, can be time-consuming and prohibitively expensive, especially for diseases that are devastating but affect only a small percentage of the population.

    This is where AI comes into play. It is transforming the drug discovery process by enabling scientists to rapidly and accurately identify drug compounds with potential therapeutic value. AI can scrutinize vast amounts of data, uncover intricate relationships, generate and iteratively test models, highlight safety issues, and accomplish in a matter of weeks what a human team might take a lifetime to achieve.

    However, Kurt emphasizes, “we’re not yet at the point where AI can reliably do this on its own. The process still requires human intellect to verify results and guide the process and outcomes.” This is where the Delta4 difference shines. We combine the best of AI with human ingenuity to yield exceptional results.

    Delta4 – A Biotech Pioneer

    Delta4’s commitment to this synergy between AI and human talent manifests in our AI-powered platform, Hyper-C. “In more concrete terms, you’ll see this as we develop new drugs faster, identify new indications for existing drugs while also increasing their effectiveness, and most importantly, achieve this while improving drug safety by providing more information on potential drug interactions, side effects, and risks.”

    At Delta4, our goal is not only to push the boundaries of what’s possible in drug discovery but also to ensure these advances reach the patients who need them most, including those with rare diseases. To that end, Kurt and our dedicated team are unyieldingly focused on advancing our pipeline into clinical testing as safely and swiftly as possible, aiming to bring them to market at an accelerated pace.

    Looking Beyond the Horizon

    Our ambitions extend beyond our own research and development efforts. As Kurt shares, “We are also ramping up our sales effort to grow our work with pharmaceutical companies. Pharma companies are interested in leveraging our platform, Hyper-C, for a variety of different objectives.” These collaborations provide a mutual benefit: our partners can leverage the power of our platform for their research and/or asset development needs, while we gain valuable insights to further refine our process and algorithms.

    This feature in Insightscare Magazine is a testament to the innovative work being done at Delta4 under Kurt’s leadership. We are thrilled about the recognition and more motivated than ever to continue advancing the future of drug discovery. Thank you to all our partners, collaborators, and team members for being part of this exciting journey. Together, we can make a significant impact on healthcare and improve patients’ lives worldwide.

    Don’t forget to read the full article at Insightscare Magazine.

    Pioneering Healthcare leaders in 2023

  • Delta4 Announces Prof. Doron Lancet To Join Scientific Advisory Board

    Delta4 Announces Prof. Doron Lancet To Join Scientific Advisory Board

    VIENNA, Austria, March 6th, 2023 — Delta4, a digital drug discovery company focusing on the identification of new indications for existing drug compounds, today announced that Prof. Doron Lancet will join its Scientific Advisory Board. Prof. Lancet is a distinguished scientist in the area of genetics and systems biology.

    “We are excited to have Prof. Lancet join our Scientific Advisory Board“, commented Kurt Herpel, CEO of Delta4. Herpel added: “His insights and achievements in human genetics, as well as his eminent expertise in the research of olfaction, will be a valuable enrichment for Delta4, as we continue to develop and scale the company. This expertise is highly relevant for both of our strategic priorities, on one hand, the highly innovative projects we work on in cooperation with some of the world’s top Pharma and Biotech companies, and on the other hand the growing cohort of our own (“pipeline”) projects.”

    Prof. Lancet stated: “It is a great pleasure for me to join the Scientific Advisory Board of Delta4. I am convinced that my expertise in human olfaction at the molecular, cellular, and organismic levels, as well as the proteomics, genomics, and genetics of olfaction, will make it possible for me to support progress in the research and development projects at Delta4.”

    As a member of Delta4’s Scientific Advisory Board Prof. Lancet brings to the company a wealth of experience as one of the systems biology pioneers in the field of human genetics. His decades-long career and experience led to the development of the ground-breaking genetics research tool GeneCards ®, a database that is widely used in the biomedical field. Lancet has been a member of the European Molecular Biology Organization since 1996.

    About Delta4’s Drug Discovery Platform

    Delta4’s drug discovery platform Hyper-C was successfully applied in contract research for global pharma and biotechnology companies. It integrates in-silico drug discovery and big data analysis with extensive expertise in molecular biology and clinical development. Due to its unique technology, Delta4 delivers not only drug candidates but also mechanistic hypotheses about the underlying mode of action, significantly increasing their value for pharmaceutical development.

    About Delta4

    Delta4 is a drug discovery and development company, combining in-silico drug discovery and big data analysis with extensive expertise in molecular biology and clinical development of a powerful proprietary drug discovery platform. This platform generates promising drug candidates annotated with biological and medical information, resulting in a fast track to establishing a clinical proof of concept.

    Delta4 was founded in 2019. The company is based in Vienna, Austria.

    Contact Delta 4 GmbH, Kurt Herpel, CEO | https://delta4.ai/ | office@delta4.ai, +43 681 81 84 27 48 | Alser Straße 23/30, 1080 Vienna Austria

  • 4P-Pharma And Delta4 Join Forces To Find And Develop Treatments For A Rare Autoimmune Chronic Liver Disease

    4P-Pharma And Delta4 Join Forces To Find And Develop Treatments For A Rare Autoimmune Chronic Liver Disease

    Paris (France) and Vienna (Austria), 31st May 2022 – 4P-Pharma, a French clinical-stage biotechnology company, and Delta4, an Austrian digital drug development company, today announce the signing of a collaboration agreement. Under the agreement, both companies will jointly identify and develop first-in-class drug candidates for a rare autoimmune chronic liver disease for which currently no effective curative treatment is available.

    Contributing to this collaboration, Delta4 will apply its proprietary computational and iterative big data analytics platform to identify novel therapeutic targets and signaling pathways as well as drug candidates for a rare autoimmune chronic liver disease. Based on the results provided by Delta4, 4P-Pharma will structure a tailored R&D maturation program with the focus to further characterize these candidates to demonstrate their potential for improving the treatment. Together, Delta4’s and 4P-Pharma’s teams aim to bring an innovative drug candidate to patients affected by this rare disease.

    “4P-Pharma aims to bring breakthrough curative solutions with a strong scientific rationale to patients”, stated Revital Rattenbach, CEO of 4P-Pharma. “With this partnership, we will benefit from Delta4’s AI proprietary computational analytics platform to identify breakthrough drug candidates. Combined with our drug development expertise, together, we will accelerate the identification of drug candidates for patients affected by this rare liver disease. It underlines our shared commitment to bring breakthrough solutions to patients.”

    “We are looking forward to joining forces with 4P Pharma to make a difference for patients who are suffering from a devastating disease”, commented Kurt Herpel, CEO, Delta4. Herpel added: “4P-Pharma has consistently proven the viability of their rigorous and focused approach to advancing promising drug candidates up the development pipeline. Specifically, we are excited about the opportunity to apply our platform to a new disease area and to work with 4P-Pharma to make a difference in the treatment of these liver-impaired patients.”

    About 4P-Pharma

    4P-Pharma is a French clinical-stage company founded in 2014, dedicated to regenerate active drugs to develop first-in-class therapies to cure untreated serious diseases. We aim to develop innovative programs with strong scientific rationale, sourced from the top academic research labs and AI-based biotechs. Driven by a vision to pair disease biology of unmet pathologies with drug mechanism of action, the key differentiation of 4P-Pharma is the dual leverage of in-house R&D capabilities located within Pasteur Institute of Lille (France), combined with single product vehicle (SPV)-based deployment at clinical stage enabling big pharma clinical collaborations to facilitate market access.

    4p-pharma.com

    www.linkedin.com/company/4p-pharma

    @4P_Pharma

    About Delta4

    Delta4 is a digital drug discovery and development company, focusing on the discovery of novel indications for approved drugs. Delta4 combines in-silico drug discovery and big data analysis with extensive expertise in molecular biology and bioinformatics to a powerful proprietary drug discovery platform. Delta4 uses this platform for the discovery of promising drug leads. The drug leads thus generated are backed by a strong mechanistic hypothesis that significantly reduces the time to a clinical proof-of-concept of validated compounds.

    delta4.ai

    www.linkedin.com/company/delta4ai

    @Delta4ai

    4P-Pharma press contact

    Roselina Lam, Business Development and Licensing-in Manager

    E-mail: roselina@4p-pharma.com

    Delta4 press contact

    Kurt Herpel, CEO

    E-mail: kurt.herpel@delta4.ai

    Pictured: Kurt Herpel, CEO of Delta4, and Revital Rattenbach, CEO of 4P-Pharma, celebrating the signature of a partnership agreement between Delta4 and 4P-Pharma in Paris (France).

    About Autoimmune Chronic Liver Disease (ACLD)

    Autoimmune chronic liver disease (ACLD) is a condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy liver cells, leading to chronic inflammation and liver damage. There are two main types of ACLD: autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and primary biliary cholangitis (PBC).

    Prevalence

    The exact prevalence of ACLD is unknown, but it is estimated that AIH affects 17.44 people per 1000,000 individuals, while PBC prevalence varies across geographical locations, but approximately affects 25-30 people per 100,000 worldwide. ACLD is more common in women than men and typically develops between the ages of 40 and 60.

    Symptoms

    The symptoms of ACLD can vary depending on the type and severity of the disease. Common symptoms include fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice, itching, and weight loss. In severe cases, ACLD can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer.

    How It Affects People

    ACLD can have a significant impact on the health and quality of life of those affected. Chronic inflammation and damage to the liver can cause ongoing symptoms, and the risk of liver failure or cancer can be a source of anxiety and stress. Treatment for ACLD typically involves medications to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system, which can have side effects and require regular monitoring. In some cases, a liver transplant may be necessary.

    It is important for individuals with ACLD to work closely with their healthcare providers to manage their condition, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and monitor for any potential complications. Support groups and counseling can also be helpful in managing the emotional and psychological impact of ACLD.

  • Delta4, in preparation for the first clinical study, focused on FSGS

    Delta4, in preparation for the first clinical study, focused on FSGS

    Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is a devastating clinical condition with defined glomerular histopathology and yet a multifaceted pathophysiological, histological, and genetic background. FSGS patients often progress to end-stage renal disease requiring dialysis and/or kidney transplantation, adding a significant socioeconomic burden to the individual burden of patients. There are approximately 140.000 patients with FSGS worldwide, qualifying it as an orphan disease.

    Currently, there are no broadly effective therapies for glomerular disorders. Therefore, there is an urgent need to find new treatment options and test their efficacy in suitable trials.

    Delta4’s Clinical Study

    Delta4 is a drug discovery and development company, combining in-silico drug discovery and big data analysis with extensive expertise in molecular biology and bioinformatics to a powerful proprietary drug discovery platform. This platform is being used both for tailored service collaborations as well as for the discovery of promising drug leads backed by a strong mechanistic hypothesis, typically resulting in a fast track for clinical development.

    Delta4 has chosen FSGS as its first therapeutic area to establish a clinical proof-of-concept of validated compounds. The significant medical and biological competence of its team in the renal field assembles all expertise to address this devastating disorder with high and unmet medical needs. Therefore, our FSGS project has successfully advanced from identifying candidate compounds to the clinical proof-of-concept stage.

    Preparations are now underway for an innovative clinical trial with the aim to include the first patients in the fall of 2022.

    Delta4 is working closely with leading experts from medical universities and the Austrian Society of Nephrology, to optimize study design and to prepare a nationwide platform to provide the fastest pathway for the best benefits both to patients and shareholders.

    We are looking forward to disclosing more details of this effort over the next few months.

    Background

    What is Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS)?

    Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is a kidney disease that affects the glomeruli, the tiny filtering units within the kidneys responsible for filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood to form urine. In FSGS, some of the glomeruli become scarred, or sclerotic, leading to a reduced filtering capacity. The term “focal” refers to the fact that only some glomeruli are affected, while “segmental” means that only a portion of each affected glomerulus is damaged.

    The exact cause of FSGS is not fully understood, but it can be classified into two types:

    1. Primary FSGS: This type occurs when the cause of the disease is unknown, or idiopathic. It is believed to involve a combination of genetic, immune system, and environmental factors.
    2. Secondary FSGS: This type is caused by an underlying condition or factor, such as obesity, drug toxicity, viral infections (like HIV), or other kidney diseases.

    FSGS can lead to a progressive loss of kidney function, eventually resulting in kidney failure or end-stage renal disease (ESRD), which requires dialysis or a kidney transplant for survival. Symptoms of FSGS can include swelling (edema), high blood pressure, foamy urine due to proteinuria (excess protein in the urine), and poor kidney function as evidenced by blood tests.

    Treatment for FSGS often involves medications to control blood pressure, reduce proteinuria, and suppress the immune system, as well as dietary and lifestyle modifications. The specific treatment plan depends on the underlying cause, the severity of the disease, and the individual patient’s needs.

    Who is affected by Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS)?

    Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) can affect people of any age, gender, and ethnicity. However, certain factors can make some individuals more susceptible to the disease. These include:

    • Age: Although FSGS can occur at any age, it is more commonly diagnosed in children and young adults. However, it can still affect middle-aged and older adults as well.
    • Race: Studies have shown that FSGS is more prevalent in individuals of African descent compared to other ethnicities. This increased risk is partly attributed to genetic factors.
    • Gender: Males are more likely to be affected by FSGS than females. The reason for this gender difference is not well understood.
    • Genetic factors: Some forms of FSGS have a genetic component, making individuals with a family history of the disease more susceptible. Mutations in specific genes, such as NPHS1, NPHS2, and ACTN4, have been associated with hereditary FSGS.
    • Underlying conditions: People with certain health conditions, such as HIV infection, obesity, and drug toxicity, are at a higher risk of developing secondary FSGS. Moreover, individuals with other kidney diseases or disorders may also be more susceptible to FSGS.

    It is essential to note that FSGS can affect anyone, even those without any apparent risk factors. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for managing the disease and preserving kidney function.

    How Does FSGS Impact Quality of Life?

    Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) can significantly impact the quality of life for those affected by the disease. The effects can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the stage of the disease. Some factors that may influence the quality of life for individuals with FSGS include:

    • Physical symptoms: Swelling (edema), high blood pressure, and proteinuria (foamy urine) can cause discomfort and affect daily activities. Fatigue, weakness, and loss of appetite can also make it difficult for individuals to maintain a normal routine.
    • Emotional well-being: The chronic nature of FSGS and its potential to lead to kidney failure may cause stress, anxiety, and depression. The uncertainty of the disease’s progression and the possibility of needing dialysis or a kidney transplant can be emotionally challenging.
    • Treatment side effects: Medications used to treat FSGS, such as corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs, can cause side effects like weight gain, mood swings, increased susceptibility to infections, and other complications. These side effects can further impact quality of life.
    • Dietary and lifestyle restrictions: Individuals with FSGS may need to follow a strict diet low in sodium, protein, and potassium to help manage symptoms and protect kidney function. This may limit food choices and affect social activities centered around meals. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle by exercising regularly, managing stress, and quitting smoking can be challenging but essential for overall health.
    • Financial burden: The cost of medications, dialysis, kidney transplants, and ongoing medical care can create a significant financial burden for individuals with FSGS and their families. This can lead to additional stress and anxiety.
    • Social support: The impact of FSGS on daily life can affect relationships with family and friends. It is essential for individuals with FSGS to have a strong support system to help them cope with the physical and emotional challenges of the disease.

    It is crucial for individuals with FSGS to work closely with their healthcare team to manage their condition effectively and maintain the best possible quality of life. Support groups and counseling may also help with coping strategies and emotional well-being.

  • Delta4 at BIO-EUROPE 2021

    Delta4 at BIO-EUROPE 2021

    From October 25-28 Delta4 attended the (virtual) BIO-EUROPE conference, the largest partnering event in Europe dedicated to the global biotechnology industry.

    What is Bio-Europe?

    The Bio-Europe conference is an annual event that serves as the largest partnering conference in the life sciences sector, focusing on the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. The conference, organized by EBD Group and supported by the US Commercial Service, takes place in various cities through Europe and offers a platform for networking, collaboration, and partnering opportunities among global decision-makers and industry leaders. The event features workshops, panel discussions, company presentations, and one-on-one meetings, allowing attendees to engage with the latest trends, insights, and innovations in the biotech and pharma sectors. It is an ideal event for business development professionals, investors, and companies looking to expand their presence and foster connections in the European life sciences market.

    Delta4’s Involvement at Bio-Europe

    We presented the exciting progress that Delta4 has made over the course of the year as well as the plans going forward.

    Furthermore, we discussed concrete cooperation opportunities with a number of Pharma and BioTech firms from Europe, the USA, and Asia. After proof of concept in 2020, a substantial Series A investment in early 2021, and a considerate scaling of the company in mid-2021, this was the right time to further engage with potential partners and clients on a broader front.

    Going into 2022 we expect several deeper relationships to be firmed up and we are looking forward to once again contributing real and tangible value to our current and future partners.

    Why Bio-Europe Is Important

    The Bio-Europe conference is important for several reasons, such as the networking opportunities it provides. The event brings together decision-makers, industry leaders, investors, and professionals from the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors worldwide, fostering the exchange of ideas, knowledge, and resources among attendees and providing a platform to establish new business relationships.

    Another crucial aspect of the conference is its facilitation of collaboration and partnering. Bio-Europe enables companies to explore potential collaborations, licensing deals, and strategic partnerships through one-on-one meetings and partnering sessions. This can accelerate the innovation and commercialization of new products and technologies.

    The conference also offers industry insights and trends through panel discussions, workshops, and company presentations, helping industry professionals stay informed and adapt their strategies to the rapidly evolving landscape. Moreover, Bio-Europe is a stage for emerging companies to present their cutting-edge products, services, and technologies to a global audience, attracting potential investors, customers, and partners.

    Lastly, the conference allows participants, particularly those from outside Europe, to better understand the European life sciences market, regulatory environment, and potential opportunities, helping them expand their presence in the region.

    The Bio-Europe conference plays a vital role in promoting networking, collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and exposure to the latest industry developments.

    Delta4 is excited to have been able to play a small part at the conference and contribute to its goal of ultimately furthering the growth and advancement of the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors.

    About Delta4’s Drug Discovery Platform

    Delta4’s drug discovery platform was successfully applied in contract research for global pharma and biotechnology companies. The platform integrates in-silico drug discovery and big data analysis with extensive expertise in molecular biology and clinical development. Due to its unique technology, Delta4 delivers not only drug candidates but also a mechanistic hypothesis about the underlying mode of action, significantly increasing their value for pharmaceutical development.

    Contact Delta 4 GmbH, Kurt Herpel, CEO, Alser Straße 23/30, 1080 Vienna Austria, office@delta4.ai, +41 79 874 13 22 | +43 681 81 84 27 48