AstraZeneca Partners with Absci to Develop Cancer Antibody
The pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca has teamed up with AI biologics firm Absci to create an antibody for cancer. AstraZeneca will invest $247 million in research and development, milestone payments, and upfront fees for the collaboration. The goal is to develop a zero-shot generative AI model that can create new antibody therapeutics for cancer and improve existing ones. The specific types of cancer involved were not mentioned in the report.
AI Accelerating Biologics Discovery Process
Absci’s AI technology screens billions of cells each week and can transform antibodies into lab-validated candidates in just six weeks. The company is currently involved in 17 active projects. According to AstraZeneca senior vice-president Puja Sapra, AI enables the company to increase the success and speed of their biologics discovery process while enhancing diversity.
The Rise of AI in Healthcare
The healthcare industry is increasingly adopting AI technology due to its ability to accelerate innovative research and improve data analysis accuracy. In November, Hong Kong’s Hospital Authority launched an AI pilot program to combat superbugs. By analyzing clinical data, the AI system determines the necessity of prescribing antibiotics, which have contributed to the rise of drug-resistant organisms.
Hot Take: Harnessing AI for Cancer Treatment Advancements
The partnership between AstraZeneca and Absci represents an exciting advancement in cancer treatment research through the use of AI technology. By leveraging Absci’s AI model, this collaboration aims to develop new antibody therapeutics that could potentially revolutionize cancer treatment options. With the increasing role of AI in healthcare, we can expect accelerated progress in biologics discovery and improved patient outcomes in the future.
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