Learn

This track will focus on recent innovations across the assay development and screening discipline, including the adoption of novel technologies and the implementation of effective, innovative screening campaigns and hit triage strategies. Attendees will learn about the development of robust, physiologically relevant biochemical, biophysical and cellular assays that are crucial for identifying novel biology, targets, and active ligands that engage their targets directly. There will be an emphasis on recent case studies where cutting-edge assay and perturbation approaches have increased the success rates of screening for target discovery and lead identification campaigns. Additional attention will be paid to emerging screening efforts that have been coupled with next-generation therapeutic modalities and novel mechanisms of action to broaden the scope of target classes that can be drugged. Taken together, the overall track will highlight advances in the fields of assay development and screening that enhance efforts to identify, validate and characterize novel targets and potential lead molecules.

Session 1: The Power of Chemical Biology - Virtual Screens Through Wet Lab Validation
Session Chair: Brian Shoichet, Ph.D. (University of California San Francisco
Advances in virtual screening strategies enable billions of compounds to be screened simultaneously against targets of interest, allowing scientists to focus on hundreds or thousands of compounds for in vitro experiments. This session will highlight the power of in silico screening approaches and include specific examples of how virtual screening results are translated into focused high throughput screening assays.

Session 2: Screening with High-content Genomic Assays for Deep Biological Insights and Early Drug Discovery
Session Chair: Scott Martin, Ph.D. (Genentech)
This session will showcase cutting edge approaches that couple perturbation screens with high content genomic assays, such as single cell transcriptomics, to map biological systems and advance target and drug discovery.

Session 3: Biochemical and Biophysical Assays
Session Chair: Eric Fischer, Ph.D. (Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School)
Biochemical and biophysical assays are fundamental methods that are used widely during drug discovery. Attendees of this session will learn how these screening strategies can be effectively employed to identify and optimize active leads and to demonstrate target engagement using purified proteins to build confidence in understanding the affinity, efficacy and mechanism of action of small molecules.

Session 4: Advancing Discovery and Drug Development Through Complex in Vitro Models and Translational Cellular Assays
Session Chair: Kristen Brennand, Ph.D. (Yale University)
There have been many recent advances in the in vitro modeling of complex cellular systems, enabling the development of more therapeutically relevant high throughput assays. This session will highlight some key advances in complex in vitro models along with approaches to leverage them for discovery and drug development.

Session 5: Application of Novel Functional Genomic Technologies in Drug Discovery
Session Chair: Benjamin Haley, Ph.D. (University of Montreal)
There is an ever-growing tool box for perturbing and editing the genome in a variety of ways and at scale. This session will showcase a number of new approaches, along with their unique applications to enable target and drug discovery.

Session 6: Advanced Imaging and High Content Assays
Session Chair: Kaylene Simpson PhD Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre
Cell-based assays are a cornerstone of current drug discovery pipelines. In this session, attendees will learn how high-content and high-definition microscopy are used as tools to interrogate predictive models for functional analysis and compound characterization, as well as how image-based assay strategies can be combined with orthogonal screening approaches.

View All Assay Development and Screening Podium Talks

This track focuses on the innovative use of biological or chemistry applications, tools, technologies, and techniques as they pertain to automated high throughput screening, the advancement of laboratory processes or improvement of the quality, impact and flow of experimental laboratory data. Emphasis is placed on advancements in chemically and biologically relevant technologies using engineering, analytical, informatics, and application to cutting edge automation-assisted research.

Session 1: AI-Enabled Chemistry: Automating Iterative Discovery and Synthesis
Session Chair: Richard Robinson, Ph.D. (Novartis)
This session will feature presentations on advances being made in the development and application of automation technologies within the scope of facilitating or advancing the productivity in chemical synthesis, the screening of chemical reactions and automating the DMTA cycle.

Session 2: Advancements in Sample Management Technologies
Session Chair: Nady Mettias (Takeda)
Explore the forefront of sample management technology, delving into the latest innovations in software, labware, instruments, and beyond. Uncover how these advancements revolutionize workflows, enhance efficiency, and drive progress across diverse scientific fields.

Session 3: Streamlining Lab Operations: Innovations in Automated Transport for Labware
Session Chair: Carleen Klumpp-Thomas, M.S. (NCATS)
Embark on a journey exploring innovations in automated transport for scientific labware utilizing mobile robotics and beyond. Navigate how cutting-edge technologies optimize efficiency, minimize manual intervention, and elevate productivity in laboratory settings, revolutionizing the way we conduct research and experiments.

Session 4: Transforming Lab Processes: Cutting-Edge Advancements in Automation
Session Chair: Kristen Tran, M.S. (Ginkgo Bioworks)
Unlock the potential of automation in laboratory processes with our exploration of cutting-edge advancements. Dive into how these innovations redefine efficiency, precision, and scalability, reshaping the landscape of scientific discovery. Join us and witness the evolution of lab operations firsthand.

Session 5: Screening & Profiling at Higher Throughput Using Physiologically Relevant Models
Session Chair: Shane Marine (GSK)
Discover how these advancements enhance the accuracy and efficiency of research, propelling drug discovery and development forward. Join us to learn how innovative models are shaping the future of biomedical science.

Session 6: Integrated and Automated Approaches to Accelerate Lead Generation Across Therapeutic Modalities
Session Chair: Jesse Mulcahy (Cellino)
Explore how the seamless integration of diverse data sources, automated workflows, and advanced analytics can accelerate the identification of lead compounds and innovative cell therapies. Discover how this multifaceted approach is revolutionizing the fields of drug discovery and cell therapy, transforming the landscape of therapeutic development.

View All Automation Technologies Podium Talks

Attendees will learn from industry and academic leaders about novel cellular technologies and their application in the treatment of disease, as well as the generation of disease-relevant models for drug discovery and pre-clinical development. This track will highlight in vitro models used for illuminating functional genomics and pharmacology, ADME or toxicity analyses. The technologies covered will include the generation and use of complex co-cultures, organoids, organ-on-chips, and microphysiologic models. The track will also include cellular therapeutics and cell technologies to support biologics and gene therapy approaches.

Session 1: Advancing Complex In Vitro Models for Regulatory Applications
Session Chair: Graham Marsh, Ph.D. (C-Path)
Complex In Vitro Models (CIVMs) have entered regulatory space following new FDA modernization legislation. This session covers both technology development of CIVMs to support regulatory filings as well as needs/experiences of those directly involved in these processes.

Session 2: Physiologically Relevant Models for Drug Safety
Session Chair: Oivin Guicherit, Ph.D. (Broad Institute)
Advances in Complex In Vitro Models (CIVMs) for drug safety studies (as opposed to efficacy) offer a promising supplement/alternative to traditional preclinical models for studying drug pharmacodyamics and pharmacokinetics behavior as well as establish their pharmacologic, safety, and toxicity profile.

Session 3: Clinical Translation of Complex In Vitro Models
Session Chair: Dan Tagle (NIH)
Integration of sensors and novel endpoints enabled by CIVMs have the potential to provide more predictive insights into clinical outcomes of disease.

View All Cellular Technologies Podium Talks

The integration of data science and AI in life sciences has rapidly accelerated in recent years. What was once a speculative topic has now become a focal point for organizations of all sizes, from established industry leaders to innovative startups. The conversation has shifted from theoretical exploration to practical implementation, creating a landscape where expertise is paramount. This track aims to delve into three key aspects: Firstly, the imperative for developing tailored ML models that address specific challenges within life sciences; secondly, the crucial role of engineering and real-world applications in driving impactful outcomes; and thirdly, the importance of establishing a feedback loop between laboratory practices, automation technologies, and AI to facilitate rapid improvements. Through insightful discussions and shared experiences, we aim to showcase successful strategies, lessons learned, and visionary ideas that contribute to the advancement of our field.

Session 1: Development of Predictive ML Models in Drug Development
Session Chair: Angela Pisco, Ph.D. (Insitro)
This session focuses on machine learning research and model development tailored specifically for drug development. Experts will explore the algorithmic challenges and opportunities in designing models with scientific impact. Speakers are encouraged to present work that is in the earlier stages of development.

Session 2: Scaling and Engineering Challenges for AI
Session Chair: Berton Earnshaw, Ph.D. (Recursion)
Participants in this session will explore the pivotal role of engineering in leveraging integrated data for drug discovery and lab automation. Discussions will focus on managing diverse datasets, implementing scalable infrastructure, and overcoming technical challenges to empower organizations in deriving actionable insights.

Session 3: AI-Driven Lab Experiments
Session Chair: Yusuf Roohani, Ph.D. (Stanford/Arc Institute)
This session explores the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in experimental discovery within laboratory settings. AI models are increasingly being deployed for designing experiments in the lab. Attendees will explore how AI algorithms are creating an active feedback loop between model predictions and lab experiments.

View All Data Science and AI Podium Talks

Micro- and nano-technologies have enabled numerous advances in high-throughput biology and medicine. Miniaturized device length scales and materials can leverage unique physical properties at the micro and nanoscale to digitize biology and key processes to advance life sciences, molecular diagnostics and cell engineering. This track will highlight innovation in fabrication of microphysiological systems, the application of artificial intelligence to high-throughput micro and nanoscale systems, and the cutting-edge of fluidic handling at the smallest scales for use in lab screening to advance human health.

Session 1: 3D Bioprinting and Microphysiological Systems
Session Chair: Johanna Bobrow (MIT- Lincoln Laboratory)
Microphysiological Systems (MPS) are a rapidly-expanding field being developed to better mimic some aspects of specific organ systems or combinations of organ systems to improve upon standard two-dimensional (2D) cell systems, and to supplement and enhance animal models. This session will focus on developments in the devices used to engineer MPS, and the technologies being used to create them, including 3d printing (both bioprinting and structural printing) for developing MPS systems, and examples of customizing MPS systems into existing workflows.

Session 2: Novel Micro and Nanoscale Liquid Handling and Applications
Session Chair: Benjamin Yellen (Celldom) This session will focus on micro- and nanoscale handling of liquid and solid phases for applications in high-throughput biological experimentation. The session will showcase new advances in manipulating biological materials that afford precise control over the content and kinetics of biological reactions, and also new advances in high content cell based assays. Topics include but are not limited to: Multiphase fluids, self-powered motion, field directed assembly, surface based transport of particles and droplets, single cell applications, as well as novel cell and biomolecular assays that leverage microscale compartmentalization, including droplet generation, microwell capture, and microfluidic trapping.

Session 3: AI Applied to Micro/Nano Systems for Medicine
Session Chair: Keisuke Goda (University of Tokyo)
Artificial intelligence (AI) is well-suited to processing nuanced, high-throughput biological data generated by micro and nano systems. Thus, data from numerous microdevices and reactors are now being analyzed in real-time and post-collection using methods including convolutional, neural, artificial and other networks. With applications from optimized nanoparticle synthesis for nanomedicine, to quantifying highly parameterized images of cancer cell migration and drug susceptibility, AI and micro/nano systems are poised to impact laboratory screening processes. In this session, we will discuss cutting-edge micro and nano system operation and analysis empowered by AI and future implications for the field.

View All Micro- and Nano-Technologies Podium Talks

Advances in drug discovery technologies as well as the need to expand the target space in diseases with unmet medical need have created opportunities to pursue difficult targets with New Modalities. This session will discuss emerging therapeutic strategies leveraging RNA therapeutics, biologics and bioconjugates, peptides and macrocycles, bioactive organelles and other novel targeting approaches as well as new platform technologies that are utilized to enable new modality-based drug discovery.

Session 1: Advances in Proximity-Inducing Modalities
Session Chair: Amit Vaish, Ph.D. (Amgen)
Inducing proximity between biomolecules has allowed the modulation of targets and disease pathways that had not been accesible or effectively targeted by conventional modalities. This session will highlight technological advances that enable the development of various induced proximity platforms as both a therapeutic modality and a chemical biology tool.

Session 2: Nucleotide Based Therapeutics
Session Chair: Konstantina (Nadina) Skourti, Ph.D. (n-Lorem)
This modality includes nucleic acid drug discovery approaches that target gene expression to modulate the levels of pathogenic proteins in disease. The session will provide insights on different modalities, assays and technological advancements in the field for targeting and delivering nucleic acid therapeutics to the patients.

Session 3: New Frontiers for Peptides and Macrocycles
Session Chair: Emel Adaligil, Ph.D. (Genentech)
Advancements in the design and screening of peptides and macrocycles, such as computational methods and mRNA Display technology, to identify cell permeable molecules, have provided new opportunities to expand the PPI target space.

Session 4: Biologics and Bioconjugates
Session Chair: Jeremiah Joseph, Ph.D. (Opilio)
This session will discuss emerging and next generation approaches to develop biologics and bioconjugate drugs, including protein, antibodies, antibody-small molecule conjugates, gene and cell therapies.

Session 5: New Target Opportunities for Drug Discovery
Session Chair: Bede Portz (Dewpoint Therapeutics) Experimental advances continue to reveal new paradigms in cell biology and points of intervention into novel nodes of disease. This session will introduce emerging drug discovery targets including biomolecular condensates and state of the art technology to drug these and other targets.

Session 6: Emerging Platform Technologies
Session Chair: John Dresios, Ph.D. (Leidos)
This session will introduce emerging platform technologies to enable new modality identification as well as delivery to the patient.

View All New Modalities Podium Talks

Explore emerging technologies, real-world applications, and future prospects in this dynamic track focusing on screening applications of biomarker diagnostics. Understand how robust assay development processes are increasing the fidelity of such diagnostic screens. Discover how these screening diagnostics are enhancing hospital care and biomarker analyses are transforming disease diagnosis. Leading experts will also discuss how advances in the field, such as the use of AI and Machine learning can streamline care and improve patient outcomes.

Session 1: Algorithmic-based Patient Care
Session Chair: Sonia Rao, Pharm.D. (Roche)
Discover how algorithms are transforming patient care and diagnostics in hospitals. This session covers the fundamentals of clinical decision support systems (CDSS), showcasing real-world applications that enhance diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes. Learn about the challenges and ethical considerations of algorithm deployment, and explore future trends in algorithmic healthcare solutions. This session offers valuable insights into the integration and impact of advanced algorithms in clinical practice. Join us to explore the future of algorithm-driven patient care in hospital settings.

Session 2: From Biomarker Discovery to Diagnostics Applications
Session Chair: Cindy Lawley, Ph.D. (Olink)
To make precise clinical decision and personalized, having a validated biomarkers is important for improved health conditions in many disease areas. Biomarkers have various applications including disease detection, diagnosis, prognosis, prediction of response to intervention, and disease monitoring. This session focuses on current implementations of biomarkers for precision health, and impact of these markers in the clinic and highlights the future and current challenges for biomarker discovery.

Session 3: Advances in Sequencing Technologies for Diagnostics and Screening
Session Chair: Kristin Gleitsman, Ph.D. (Veracyte)
Experience the evolution in medical diagnostics driven by our deepening understanding of the human genome and the advancements in Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technologies. In this session, we will explore the latest innovations in genetic screening and diagnostics, showcasing how NGS is set to revolutionize the next generation of medical practices. Join us to learn how these cutting-edge technologies are making genome sequencing more accessible, paving the way for breakthroughs in personalized medicine and improved patient outcomes.

View All Screening Applications and Biomarker Diagnostics Podium Talks