Role of the development scientist in compound lead selection and optimization

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Drug Discovery and Development

Background:

• The pharmaceutical research and development (R&D) landscape is rapidly transforming due to technological advancements and global business pressures.
• This evolution blurs the traditional boundaries between drug discovery and development, impacting the roles of scientists in both fields.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the evolving role of development scientists in the small-molecule lead selection and optimization process.
• To highlight the importance of integrating "developability" criteria early in R&D to improve drug candidate success.

Main Methods:

• Review of current trends in pharmaceutical R&D and their impact on scientific roles.
• Discussion of the integration of "developability" assessments, including computational and high-throughput experimental methods.

Main Results:

• Early consideration of "developability" alongside potency and specificity can enhance the quality of development candidates.
• Proactive screening and profiling of compounds for developability can decrease attrition rates in later development stages.

Conclusions:

• The changing R&D paradigm necessitates a redefined role for development scientists, particularly during lead optimization.
• Adapting graduate curricula in pharmaceutical sciences is crucial to prepare scientists for these emerging roles and challenges.