Iktos is working with Astrogen to use artificial intelligence (AI) to identify small molecules as candidates for the treatment of Parkinson's disease. Under the collaboration's terms, Iktos will apply its proprietary machine-learning algorithm to virtually "sketch"molecules directed against a defined target and shortlist candidates for preclinical studies, the companies reported in a press release. That target is not yet public. In turn, Astrogen will screen the candidates in the lab and inside living organisms, and it will guide the development process from preclinical to clinical stages. The companies will work together in the production and selection of molecules that show the most promise as a Parkinson's treatment.

The artificial intelligence company BenevolentAI is collaborating with two UK charities to use AI to identify ideal drug candidates for treating Parkinson's disease. BenevolentAI, Europe's largest private AI company, is collaborating with Parkinson's UK and The Cure Parkinson's Trust (CPT), two UK charities, to repurpose at least three existing drugs and identify two novel drug targets to treat Parkinson's disease. The collaboration underscores the growing use and multiple applications of AI in drug discovery. BenevolentAI's software uses a computational method known as a five-layer neural network to develop models that can predict the blood-brain barrier penetration and other properties of potential drug candidates. The software's judgment is continuously updated and improved using machine learning algorithms and feedback from experienced biomedical users.