Role of Biotechnology in lead Generation and Validation

Structural characterisation of biomacromolecules, computer sciences and molecular biology have made rational drug design feasible. Molecular modelling has helped in the discovery process of new drugs, particularly lead generation and optimisation. With a host of methods available, lead generation is no longer a problem in drug discovery.
However, there is still a need to improve the methods of lead validation for potential therapeutic candidates. None of the screening methods currently available has a very high degree of certainty but a success rate of over 80% is acceptable while efforts are in progress to improve it. The aim is to develop high-throughput screens that also provide clinically relevant information. There is limitation of cell models in that the human disease process is not reproduced reliably. An improved understanding of cell signalling pathways within the cell will provide a better basis for the development of specific assays for various diseases.