Nanyang Biologics - NTU Joint Laboratory

Nanyang Biologics is proud to unveil a pioneering collaboration with Nanyang Technological University Singapore with the NYB - NTU Joint Laboratory, aiming at revolutionizing drug discovery through the power of AI and the medicinal properties of natural compounds.

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Housed within a 6,000 sq. ft. research facility, the joint lab focuses on identifying and developing natural compounds as potential drug candidates. Drawing from a collection of screened herbs and medicinal plants in the NTU Community Herb Garden, many of which have been traditionally used for their potential in treating diseases, this initiative bridges nature’s wisdom and modern pharmaceutical advancements.

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Research Goals: Advancing Drug Discovery with AI

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Nature has long been a treasure trove of bioactive compounds with immense potential for therapeutic development. However, the real challenge lies in transforming the bioactive compounds from herbal extracts into viable drug candidates. 

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The NYB-NTU Joint Laboratory is pioneering this unique approach by integrating biomedical science methodologies with AI technologies, creating a system to fast-track the discovery of life-saving treatments. This collaboration not only highlights our commitment to innovation but also underscores the potential of natural compounds and AI research in pharmaceuticals.

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Key Research Focus Areas

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1) Drug Discovery

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In vitro and in vivo analysis and validations: Using AI algorithms, researchers will shortlist compounds from tropical plants and herbs based on their chemical properties. These isolated compounds will undergo suitable purification methods, chemical modification, and rigorous validations to enhance their efficacy.

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Gut microbiome and immunity: Studies will explore how lead compounds and their derivatives impact gut microbiome composition and immune responses using advanced models.

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Mechanistic studies: Biochemical and cellular experiments will be conducted to determine the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms of action for the tropical plant extracts, lead compounds and their derivatives.

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“We are very excited about this venture with Nanyang Biologics,” said Assoc Prof Li Hoi Yeung. “The multi-disciplinary approach taken by our laboratory will form the basis of our journey for the discovery of natural compounds as future therapeutics to target cancer, metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases.” 

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2) Artificial Intelligence (AI)

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The laboratory is leveraging machine learning (ML) and data mining to build proprietary AI algorithms based on existing drug/chemical databases. After chemical fingerprinting of tropical plants and herbs, our AI-powered in-silico screening will identify promising lead compounds at scale—far beyond the capabilities of traditional screening methods. The AI-driven approach will enable pharmacopoeia for precision medicine tailored to different patients.

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Assoc Prof Adams Kong explained, “A vast quantity of data is available for natural compounds, using AI algorithms we can screen for drug-like molecules at scale, which is not feasible for traditional screening approaches.”

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3) Organic and Medicinal Chemistry

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Chemical fingerprinting: Our team of organic chemists will develop thorough chemical profiles for all plant-based compounds used in our research, ensuring standardization and quality control.

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Structural optimization: We aim to refine and enhance the chemical structures of bioactive compounds, making them more drug-like and improving their therapeutic potential.

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4) Genomics and Metagenomics

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Genomic analysis: Our research includes genomic studies of tropical plants and herbs, offering insights into their biosynthetic pathways. These findings will support the high-yield production of promising drug candidates using synthetic biology.

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Metagenomic studies: By analyzing soil microbiomes, we can identify beneficial microbes that enhance the cultivation of medicinal herbs, ensuring sustainable sourcing for pharmaceutical applications.

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👉 Learn more: ntu.edu.sg/nbnjl   

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Stay tuned for updates as we embark on this exciting journey to unlock the therapeutic potential of nature and AI!

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