Could you ever imagine a world without small molecule drug discovery? Even after more than 150 years since the discovery of the first synthetic drug the answer is still “no”. While newer modalities are emerging to address unmet medical needs, small molecules continue to play a vital role in present and future drug research.
In 2022, 18 out of 37 new FDA approved drugs (49%) were small molecules. This is not surprising given their intrinsic advantages over other modalities, such as easier membrane penetration, optimization for oral delivery, simpler synthesis, and high shelf-life stability, making them reliable and cost-effective treatments. Furthermore, small molecules are poised to benefit significantly from recent advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven drug discovery, using huge historical data sets for faster compound synthesis and optimization.
While approaching drug discovery projects in a modality agnostic manner, at Evotec we can capitalize upon decades of expertise in small molecule drug discovery applied to hundreds of biological targets, across all target classes and therapeutic areas. By combining our scientific knowledge with cutting-edge machine learning tools in our unique R&D continuum, we are leading the way in the discovery of new small molecule drugs, revolutionizing the field of medicine.
Why Evotec?
Driving Next-Generation Small Molecule Innovation
Evotec approaches every project with a modality-agnostic mindset, while bringing decades of expertise in small molecule drug discovery. Our experience spans hundreds of biological targets across all target classes and therapeutic areas and includes less conventional approaches in the small molecule space, such as covalent drugs, small molecules targeting RNA, and targeted protein degradation/modification.
By combining deep medicinal chemistry expertise with cutting-edge machine learning tools across our fully integrated R&D continuum, Evotec ensures rapid and efficient progression from concept to clinic. From hit-to-lead through IND-enabling studies and GMP manufacturing, our teams deliver the innovation, scalability, and reliability needed to transform small molecule ideas into tomorrow’s therapies.
