AI in Drugs Discovery in Neurological Disorders

Abstract
Introduction
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping the landscape of drug discovery. AI
algorithms harness vast datasets, encompassing genetic, clinical, and pharmacological
information, to identify fresh drug targets and cultivate novel drug candidates.
Huntington's disease is a fatal genetic disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of
nerve cells in the brain. It deteriorates a person's physical and mental abilities usually during
their prime working years and has no cure. Every child of a parent with HD has a 50/50
chance of inheriting the faulty gene that causes the disease. Current, there are approximately
41,000 symptomatic Americans and more than 200,000 at-risk of inheriting the disease.
Huntington's disease is described as having ALS, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's -
simultaneously. HD is characterized by a triad of symptoms, including gressive motor
dysfunction, behavioral urbance and cognitive decline.
Rationale
Target Identification: AI can pinpoint novel drug targets intricately involved in the disease's
progression. For instance, researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, utilize
AI to unearth these targets related to abnormal protein aggregate formation in HD patients'
brains.
Drug Candidate Development: AI empowers researchers at institutions like the
Massachusetts Institute of Technology to design new drug candidates capable of blocking the
production of the mutant Huntingtin protein, a pivotal factor in HD pathogenesis.
Clinical Trial Optimization: At the University of Cambridge, AI is employed to craft more
efficient and informative clinical trials for HD treatments, streamlining the development
process.
Beyond these applications, AI can:
 Analyse Patient Data: AI delves into extensive patient datasets, uncovering patterns and
trends that offer fresh insights into HD's complex pathophysiology.
 Early Detection Tools: AI contributes to the development of diagnostic tools and
biomarkers, facilitating early HD detection and intervention.
 Real-time Monitoring: AI systems continuously monitor patient responses, swiftly
identifying potential side effects or the need for treatment adjustments.
Summary
AI represents a formidable ally in the quest for effective HD treatments. By expediting target
discovery, facilitating the creation of innovative drug candidates, optimizing clinical trials,
and improving patient care, AI has the potential to significantly enhance the lives of HD
patients and their families. Its role in hastening the development of novel therapies offers
hope in the battle against this debilitating neurodegenerative disorder.
Key Points
Huntington's disease, AI in Drug Discovery, Neurological Disorders.