WuXi AppTec and Cyclica team to drive polypharmacology in drug discovery

27-Aug-2018 - Last updated on 27-Aug-2018 at 15:04 GMT

(Image: Getty/chombosan)

The multi-phase collaboration between WuXi AppTec Research Service Division and Cyclica looks to advance polypharmacology in drug discovery using AI-augmented technology.

According to Cyclica, its integrated cloud-based and artificial intelligence (AI) augmented platform enhances how companies design, screen, and personalize medicines.

As part of the multi-phase collaboration, WuXi will use Cyclica’s platform to investigate the off-target profiles of small molecules. WuXi also will apply Cyclica’s proprietary AI technology to create predictive models for absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADMET) properties.

Additionally, WuXi will support testing and optimization of Cyclica’s AI-based de novo drug design technology.

In a press release, Dr. Dave Madge, vice president, Research Services Division at WuXi AppTec, commented, “What makes Cyclica’s value proposition unique is that they offer enabling solutions at various points across the value chain which we believe will help us take further steps in the right direction.

We are excited to apply, evaluate, and support the growth of their technologies, and assess how they fit in our overall strategy to advance pre-clinical success.”

WuXi AppTec and Cyclica were not able to provide any further comment.

Earlier this year, WuXi AppTec raised more than $353m in its initial public offering (IPO) of common stock on the Shanghai Stock Exchange. Also this year, the company has continued with its expansion efforts with the opening of a second NJ-based site in April.