Charles River Laboratories has partnered with Lilly TuneLab to enhance its AI/ML drug discovery platform by leveraging nonclinical testing expertise.
The collaboration aims to strengthen Charles River's client relationships while modernizing research and development through cutting-edge technologies. Lilly TuneLab, developed by Eli Lilly, provides a collaborative AI/ML platform that allows participating companies to utilize advanced drug discovery models based on extensive proprietary research data. In return, these companies contribute data that enhances model performance through federated learning, enabling quicker identification of promising drug candidates.
Dr. Namandjé N. Bumpus, Chief Science and Innovation Officer at Charles River, emphasized that integrating their extensive nonclinical testing experience with TuneLab's AI/ML capabilities will expedite the development of innovative therapeutics. This partnership aims to democratize access to high-quality pharmaceutical tools, easing resource constraints for biotech firms and providing additional validation for discovery decisions.
Standardizing nonclinical testing protocols across the TuneLab ecosystem is expected to enhance the efficiency of AI/ML models, ultimately leading to improved drug discovery processes. This collaboration reflects a broader commitment from Charles River to advance New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) that aim to reduce reliance on traditional animal testing, thereby fostering a future where patients can access vital treatments more safely and swiftly.