AI-Powered Virtual Cells Promise Faster Drug Discovery

UPDATE - follow-up to Virtual cells built from 4D AI models and 'digital twins' could speed up drug discovery - phys.org: Researchers have created virtual representations of human cells using four‑dimensional artificial‑intelligence models that evolve over time. These digital twins simulate cellular processes in a computer, allowing scientists to test how drugs interact with cells without needing live experiments. Early tests suggest the approach can cut the time needed to identify promising compounds, potentially accelerating the path from lab to market. The method combines high‑resolution imaging data with AI‑driven modeling to capture structural and functional changes of cells across seconds, minutes and hours. By running many simulations in parallel, teams can screen large libraries of molecules far faster than traditional bench work. The development is being explored by several biotech groups aiming to reduce costs and improve success rates in early‑stage drug research.