Human Genetics and Genetic Diseases

Drug Discovery

Driven by chemistry but increasingly guided by pharmacology and the clinical sciences, drug research has contributed more to the progress of medicine during the past century than any other scientific factor. Improving the science of drug development and regulation is important in fulfilling the public health. The advent of molecular biology and, in particular, of genomic sciences is having a deep impact on drug discovery. Emphasis is placed on the contrast between the academic and industrial research operating environments, which can influence the effectiveness of research collaboration between the two constituencies, but which plays such an important role in drug innovation. The strategic challenges that research directors face are also emphasized