The role of the informatics framework in early lead discovery

Recent developments in screening technologies and data analysis have been driven by promises that the numbers of new lead compounds will increase. Although many of these promises have become reality, the success of this strategy also depends on the information framework that ties the individual components together. In particular, high-content technologies represent a new force in challenging established informatics frameworks; largely because of their data volume, variety of assay parameters and increased scientific complexity. A successful informatics framework design can be regarded as crucial for new technologies, both in terms of scientific content and information, and process integration across large corporate networks.