Biotechnology
has impacted the traditional R&D model in two key ways. Firstly
traditional biotechnology, as well as more novel, specialized biotechnology,
has introduced additional technologies into drug discovery. The ability to
produce recombinant protein structures, to change the expression of human
genes and to regulate the human immune system has enabled to pharmaceutical
R&D efforts to expand into new drug and treatment classes. These new areas
of R&D specialization include monoclonal antibodies, colony stimulating
factors, interleukins, gene therapy, cell therapy and immuntherapeutics such
as therapeutic proteins. These new technologies have expanded the field of
pharmaceutical R&D to include new biotechnology targeting and drug
development.
Impact
of traditional/integrated biotechnology and specific drug technologies on the
traditional R&D model
The second key
way in which biotechnology has impacted the traditional R&D model is in
providing additional tools and enabling technologies with which to improve on
traditional processes. Genetics-based technologies help to provide increased
drug targets as well as providing the potential to make better go/no go
decisions related to likely clinical trial results. Enabling technology
platforms impact the drug discovery process in many different ways.
Bioinformatics use information-based technologies to improve target and lead
screening. Combinatorial chemistry increases the number of leads and improves
on lead selection. Finally, high throughput screening improves lead selection
and helps reduce discovery times.
Impact
of genetics-based technology & enabling technology platforms on the
traditional R&D model
Independent Strategic Decision
Analysis 
