A statewide multi-institutional model that de-risks academic drug discovery

Area of Science:

• Biomedical research
• Drug discovery and development
• Academic-industry collaboration

Background:

• Academic research often faces challenges in translating discoveries into clinical applications.
• Redundant infrastructure and lack of inter-institutional coordination can hinder progress.
• A coordinated network is needed to de-risk academic discoveries and streamline R&D.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the structure and outcomes of a coordinated, multi-institution core network in Texas.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of a distributed drug R&D model in academic settings.
• To demonstrate the translational impact of large-scale collaboration.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a distributed drug R&D model connecting autonomous cores across institutions.
• Establishment of shared forums and referral systems for seamless project handoffs.
• Leveraging industry-grade capabilities within academic core facilities.

Main Results:

• Over 750 projects utilized at least one core in 2024.
• More than 70 projects progressed through multiple cores.
• Approximately 25 patents filed, over 60 startups launched, and 15 programs reached the clinic.
• Attracted over US$186M in non-dilutive and US$400M in dilutive capital.

Conclusions:

• A coordinated, multi-institution network effectively de-risks academic discoveries.
• The distributed core model fosters collaboration and reduces redundant efforts.
• Large-scale collaboration through this network delivers significant translational impact in drug development.