A robot-controlled laboratory where decisions are made by artificial intelligence will change the way new drugs are discovered, says a leading researcher.
The engineer leading a project to develop a prototype “lab-bot” says it will reduce the time it takes to identify and synthesise molecules for new medicines – a process that can take years as scientists refine the shape and property of target molecules.
In some cases, chemists have to test a million molecules before finding the right one.
Dr Richard Bourne, Associate Professor in the School of Chemical and Process Engineering, says the initial aim of the project is to find medicinally-active chemicals that can be used to treat arthritis and cancer. Dr Bourne, pictured above, has been awarded a Senior Research Fellowship by the Royal Academy of Engineering to further the investigation. Fellowships from the academy recognise world-class research and industrial collaboration. The award complements a £3.5 million grant made by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council to Dr Bourne and his academic partners to further ideas around “cognitive chemical manufacturing”.
“This technology has the potential to fundamentally change the way drugs are discovered.”
DR RICHARD BOURNE
Dr Bourne said: “This technology has the potential to fundamentally change the way drugs are discovered.
“Discovery chemists are involved in a ceaseless challenge to synthesise new drug molecules to the point where they can be successfully tested for medical activity.
“But the process of reaching that point can be very slow, and that has consequences for people who are waiting for new drugs that could help alleviate painful and chronic conditions.
“If the process is rushed, then the new treatments may not be developed and new types of molecule will not be evaluated.
“Our research at Leeds is about finding a balanced approach, so new molecules are found that are safe and reliable but are discovered in a timely manner. We believe by harnessing artificial intelligence we can achieve that accelerated approach.”
Dr Bourne is one of three new Senior Research Fellows announced by the Royal Academy of Engineering.
Professor Karen Holford, Chair of the academy’s Research Committee, said: “I am delighted to welcome these leading researchers to join us. Working closely with their industrial partners, each awardee will establish a world-leading research group in their field of engineering that will ultimately help to generate real economic benefits.”
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