Insilico preps first candidate for IND studies, hoping to launch trial in IPF by end of 2021

Over the last several years, Alex Zhavoronkov has turned Insilico into one of the most well-connected AI biotechs out there. Now, the Hong Kong-based company is one step closer to reaching the clinic.

Insilico is bringing its first candidate into IND-enabling studies, Zhavoronkov announced Wednesday, with the goal of launching an in-human trial at some point later this year. The move marks what he says is a first in AI drug discovery, as both the target and small-molecule inhibitor involved in the program are completely new and AI-generated.