Solutions for drug discovery
The starting point for innovation and profit, drug discovery is an increasingly difficult and time-consuming process. To streamline drug discovery processes, two fundamental issues must be overcome. The first is the complex mix of disconnected data sources that life-science companies rely on for storing information about molecular structures, assay tests, disease states and targets, laboratory notes, and compounds. The second critical challenge is the need to open lines of communications among researchers based throughout the world.
Built using Microsoft .NET, Microsoft Windows Server System, and the Microsoft Office System, Knowledge Driven Life Sciences provides a powerful framework for reducing the complexity that has made it difficult to tie people, systems, and information together. Solutions based on the Knowledge Driven Life Sciences framework can provide researchers with a single, comprehensive view of internal research and external literature, making it significantly easier to achieve target identification. At the same time, the ability to collect all information about previously researched compounds can lead to faster identification of compounds that can address the target. Collaboration tools built on Microsoft Windows SharePoint Services also ensure that researchers can easily draw on the knowledge and expertise of colleagues based in research facilities in remote locations.
Knowledge Driven Life Sciences can have a significant impact on Speed to Insight in the form of more rapid identification of targets and compounds. The end result is improved Value for Cost through an increased volume of new chemical entities that enter development and more efficient information sharing across the organization. Knowledge Driven Life Sciences also offers the ability to reduce the time and expense associated with the research and analysis of targets and compounds.
Drug discovery case study: Perlegen Sciences
To better understand how diseases with a genetic basis can be treated, Perlegen Sciences conducts detailed analyses to identify genetic variations in humans that can be used to identify factors associated with disease states and drug metabolism. Perlegen uses a Microsoft Windows-based High Performance Computing cluster and Microsoft SQL Server 2000 Laboratory Information Management System to manage experiments and process huge volumes of genomic data. Based on commodity hardware, the Windows operating system, and Microsoft .NET applications, it provides a low-cost solution using high productivity development tools.
Drug discovery technology partners
Microsoft is collaborating with leading technology companies, software developers, and systems integrators that provide both extensive technical experience and a deep knowledge of the specific requirements of the pharmaceutical industry.
Technology partners providing drug discovery solutions include:
Accenture
One of the world’s leading management consulting and technology services companies, Accenture collaborates with its clients to help them realize their visions and create tangible value. With deep industry expertise, broad global resources, and proven experience in consulting and outsourcing, Accenture can mobilize the right people, skills, alliances, and technologies to help pharmaceutical companies achieve their business objectives.
Metalife AG
(++49 700 63825433)
Metalife is dedicated to enabling life science companies to improve productivity through integrative bioinformatics solutions covering the complete research and development value chain. Metalife’s holistic approach to bioinformatics combines semantic data integration, text mining and knowledge generation enabling researchers to activate, compare and analyze data from all sources across various phases of the research and development process.
Additional information
For more information about Microsoft Knowledge Driven Life Sciences and related Microsoft products, technologies, and industry partners, please contact your Microsoft representative today.
