How Computational Techniques Can Tackle Major Threats to Human Health

Ben Thomas, CEO of AMPLY Discovery, holds a unique perspective on the intersection of biology and technology. Initially turned off by the messiness of biology filled with living organisms, he vented his interests into corporate finance, where he felt more comfortable analyzing data in spreadsheets rather than mucking around in labs. However, Thomas's journey eventually led him back to his roots, as he recognized the growing convergence of computing and biology, leading him to found AMPLY Discovery in 2021.

AMPLY Discovery is a Belfast-based company dedicated to transforming the drug discovery process through artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. The organization focuses on identifying and procuring medicinally promising molecules from nature, significantly expediting the usually lengthy and labor-intensive drug development process. By utilizing advanced AI techniques, AMPLY can assess multiple candidates simultaneously, marking a paradigm shift in a field known for its slow progression.

Thomas's background in finance plays a critical role in his approach to drug discovery. He applies principles from stock trading to biological data, treating the large datasets as a market to be explored, reminiscent of a biological fund manager. This perspective helps AMPLY to identify valuable biological data and potential drug candidates efficiently.

Interestingly, while many in the pharmaceutical field lean toward synthesizing molecules in labs, Thomas's strategy brings a returning focus on nature, akin to historical drug discovery methods. AMPLY’s methodology is underpinned by digitalizing and printing molecules derived from natural sources, echoing traditional approaches while incorporating innovative technology. By doing this, they hope to discover new molecules more quickly. Thomas asserts that finding novel compounds in nature—such as those from the poison arrow frog—is still essential and represents a fast-track method of identifying drug candidates.

In terms of tangible progress, AMPLY Discovery has made significant strides in areas like triple-negative breast cancer, developing thousands of novel molecules that show promise in treating this and other diseases. However, Thomas emphasizes that while his technology can hasten the identification of promising molecules, it cannot shortcut the necessary phases of clinical trials or drug formulation processes. The pathway to market remains complex, but AMPLY strives to fill gaps where big pharmaceutical companies are reluctant to invest.

Looking ahead, AMPLY Discovery is seeking partnerships in Canada, particularly with specialist hospitals in cancer treatment and companies adept in drug formulation. Such collaborations would leverage Canada's strong healthcare infrastructure and provide AMPLY access to U.S. funding markets in the aftermath of Brexit's complications.

Thomas's personal connections to diseases such as leukemia and the struggles of friends with cancer motivate his commitment to making a meaningful difference. By pioneering a faster, data-driven approach to drug discovery, Thomas aspires to leave a lasting mark on the world, advocating for quicker access to life-saving treatments for those in need.