Nanyang Biologics Pte Ltd (NYB), a biotech firm spun out from Nanyang Technological University, has announced a collaboration with Equinix and HPE to develop Vecura, an AI-driven platform for drug discovery. This partnership, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the AI4Life Summit in Singapore, aims to establish the world’s largest natural drug compound library within the next year.
The collaboration is a significant step in positioning Singapore as a hub for AI-driven biomedical innovation. NYB’s Chairman, Dr Roland Ong, highlighted the initiative’s goal to transform natural compounds into health solutions, leveraging research from the NYB–NTU Joint Laboratory. The Vecura platform, powered by HPE’s AI infrastructure and anchored by Equinix’s digital systems, promises to enhance drug discovery efficiency and reduce R&D costs by over 50%.
NYB’s Group Chief Technology Officer, Giang Nguyen, noted the expanding database of potential therapeutic compounds, emphasising the role of global leaders like Equinix and HPE in supporting this growth. The collaboration aims to drive breakthroughs in oncology, neuroscience, and metabolic health.
The AI4Life Summit, co-organised by the Workforce Advancement Federation, underscores the growing demand for AI-driven drug discovery platforms. The global market for these platforms is expected to grow significantly, with the Asia-Pacific region poised for rapid expansion. This initiative marks a pivotal moment in advancing healthcare solutions through strategic cross-industry collaboration.
“`
