Stories behind drug discovery: Key figures, cutting-edge technologies, and blockbuster drugs
The field of drug discovery and development has witnessed remarkable achievements over the past few decades.1 The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing drug discovery by reducing costs and enhancing efficiency.2,3 Nevertheless, drug discovery remains a challenging process with high failure rates, which makes these innovations critical for success. “Drug Discovery Stories (Volume 2),” edited together by Prof. Bin Yu from Zhengzhou University and Prof. Peng Zhan from Shandong University, provides a comprehensive collection of key breakthroughs in contemporary drug discovery (47 chapters).4 Following the publication of volume 1 in 2023,5 volume 2 mainly includes four fundamental aspects (Figure 1): (1) key figures who have shaped the pharmaceutical industry, (2) the critical roles of early development in successful drug discovery, (3) cutting-edge technologies, and (4) blockbuster drugs approved and selected candidates at the clinical stage. By exploring these themes, this volume aims to commemorate key individuals and highlight recent advances in drug discovery.
Key figures in drug discovery
Key figures in drug discovery have been essential in shaping the pharmaceutical industry. In chapter 1, Prof. Erik De Clercq recalled his career life with Prof. Piet De Somer, who played a pivotal role in the production of penicillin in Belgium. He also helped make polio vaccines by implementing the methodologies of Jonas Salk and Albert Sabin. His work at KU Leuven, including the establishment of the Rega Institute for Medical Research, was instrumental in strengthening Belgium’s pharmaceutical research landscape. Furthermore, Prof. De Somer was an early advocate for interferon-based therapies, championing interferon as a potential antiviral tool and contributing to research that paved the way for modern antiviral developments. Beyond his scientific discoveries, Prof. De Somer fostered a culture of innovation by mentoring future generations of virologists and medicinal chemists.
