Bayer, Exscientia to explore AI in drug discovery

A new collaboration between Bayer and UK-based Exscientia is set to accelerate the discovery of small molecule drugs, focused on cardiovascular disease and oncology. The companies have announced that they will use artificial intelligence (AI) to further the development of drug candidates for three of Bayer’s projects in the areas of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and oncology. Under the terms of the deal, Exscientia will begin by working on three projects with targets agreed between both parties, with eligibility to receive up to £203 million, including “upfront and research payments, near term and clinical milestones.”