High-Throughput Screening: Searching for Higher Productivity

Abstract

HOW DRUG DISCOVERY EFFORTS are managed within highthroughput screening (HTS) laboratories worldwide varies, with different approaches, tools, and strategies being applied. Because a significant number of HTS laboratories have been in existence for 8 to 10 years, many in the industry are disappointed that few drug candidates, originally screened in HTS, have made it to the market. However, it has been a steep learning curve. Only in the past few years have HTS scientists been able to bring together sophisticated automated equipment, robust assays, validated targets, high-quality compound libraries, useful data analysis tools, and a better understanding of how to use HTS within the whole of drug discovery. HTS is beginning to show its strength. A recent worldwide study involving 51 HTS directors reporting for 53 laboratories and 39 suppliers, High Throughput Screening: Improving Strategies, Technologies, and Productivity, documents current HTS successes. Altogether, 74 clinical candidates, leads originally found in HTS laboratories, were reported by the HTS directors participating in the study. Two of these products are on the market. The material in this article is based on this 850-page industry report published in December 2003.