Research continues to identify new targets for ‘small’ molecules, which are often referred to as NCE (New Chemical Entity). The extraordinary pace of development of ‘large’ molecules – such as monoclonal antibodies and other proteins – has distracted attention from our continuing progress in the development of NCE. Large molecules are expensive to make, and must generally be given parenterally, so their use tends to be restricted to the treatment of severe disease. Small molecules are usually given orally, which for almost all patients is the most convenient and acceptable route of administration, and there’s a constant stream of promising NCE coming through for assessment in humans.
Trials of NCE still account for much of our work at HMR. Our most senior physicians have each been doing first-in-human trials of NCE for more than 30 years, so we offer truly unequalled experience in this area. Our long association with NCE research has given us exceptional expertise in the interpretation of pharmacokinetic data on those molecules. We’re also well versed in the methodology of many pharmacodynamic tests and biomarkers.
Our extensive medical experience, coupled with the expertise of our scientists, means that we can quickly understand the toxicology and pharmacology of exotic and unfamiliar NCE.