Atombeat and BioDuro have announced a strategic partnership to launch an AI-powered platform aimed at accelerating peptide drug discovery.

The collaboration combines Atombeat's expertise in in silico modelling with BioDuro's capabilities in discovery chemistry, biology, and drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics.

The initiative is set to enhance the development of next-generation peptides, quality candidates with quick timelines and cost-effectiveness across various therapeutic areas.

Atombeat expedites the discovery of drugs using its Hermite software and RiDYMO platform, incorporating technologies such as Uni-Dock and Reinforced Dynamics.

These tools enable the exploration of a digital library with over one trillion potential peptide compounds, streamlining the early drug discovery process.

By focusing on the most promising candidates, the platform is designed to save cost, time and effort in drug development.

BioDuro's role in the partnership is to leverage its synthesis capability for producing several peptide compounds in parallel.

The company will be able to deliver pure peptides within one week, without the need for purification steps.

This integrated approach aims to significantly reduce research and development timelines and associated costs and risks.

BioDuro CEO Dr Armin Spura stated: “We are excited to advance peptide innovation through our strategic partnership with Atombeat. Atombeat brings extensive experience in AI-assisted drug design and optimisation.

“Together, we aim to provide the industry with leading services in peptide drug development, accelerating smarter and more efficient peptide research, and delivering faster and comprehensive solutions to our global clients.”

The AI-accelerated platform will facilitate a seamless workflow from molecular design to preclinical candidate selection. It is expected to deliver cyclic peptides that meet key developability traits, such as membrane permeability, across a broad range of therapeutic areas.