The Importance of Automation in the Drug Discovery Procedure

Drug Discovery Scientists are at the front line of medical research. The best scientific minds in the world are constantly working on preventative medicines and cures for the most aggressive and complex illnesses on the planet. In fact, over the past few decades, pioneering laboratory work has led to the almost complete eradication of polio, one of the deadliest diseases of the 20th century, and the creation of breakthrough drugs in the fight against HIV and cancer.

But how can the process of drug discover be improved? Automation is a new development which may help streamline some processes in the lab, and help drug discovery scientists focus on what they do best. 

What is Automation?

Automation is a robotic solution to the minor, repetitive tasks which are carried out in labs every day. But we’re not talking about laboratory robots here. Instead of asking highly trained scientists to carry test tubes from one part of the building to another, for instance, an automated conveyor belt can do this job for them. This frees up the scientists to work on the highly technical jobs which only they can do.

Automation has already seen some success at NHS Tayside in Dundee, Scotland. You can read more about this case study in this article: Laboratory Automation Solution helps streamline Blood Science workflow at NHS Tayside.

What is the Future of Automation in Drug Discovery Labs?

There are critics of automation. Some argue that automated processes will lead to redundancies in the health sector, and isolation among lab workers who may benefit from working together. While automation certainly reduces the risk of human error, one flaw in the system could have massive reverberations. As a result, it is important to refine any automation process, and use them only in appropriate circumstances.

Studies are now being made into the automatic purification of the active substances used in drug discovery labs. Purpose built technology will be enable scientists to create the purest compounds in the most efficient way possible, essentially allowing them to make better drugs, faster. For a more detailed report on compound purification, read: From Crude Mixture to Pure Compound - Automatic Purification Made Easy.

Clearly there is a long way to go before the automation process is perfected, but the possibilities are extremely exciting.