Improving drug discovery using advanced computational methods

Teaching free energy calculations to learn

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · SLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH · NIH-11039919

This study is working on new ways to find better medicines faster by using smart computer techniques to predict how well potential drugs will work, which could help patients get effective treatments sooner.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11039919 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the process of small molecule drug discovery by utilizing advanced computational techniques, specifically alchemical free energy calculations and machine learning models. By leveraging structural biology data, the project aims to predict how well potential drug compounds will bind to their targets, which can significantly streamline the drug development process. The methodology combines rigorous statistical mechanics with innovative machine learning approaches to improve the accuracy of predictions and reduce the time and cost associated with drug discovery. Patients may benefit from faster access to effective new medications as a result of these advancements.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals with conditions that require new drug therapies, particularly those related to small molecule treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions that are not addressed by small molecule drugs may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to quicker and more efficient development of new drugs, ultimately improving treatment options for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using computational methods for drug discovery, indicating that this approach has the potential for significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.