From InstemReviewed by Olivia Frost
This article and associated images are based on a poster originally authored by Frances Hall PhD and Richard Coxon and presented at ELRIG Drug Discovery 2025 in affiliation with Instem.
This poster is being hosted on this website in its raw form, without modifications. It has not undergone peer review but has been reviewed to meet AZoNetwork's editorial quality standards. The information contained is for informational purposes only and should not be considered validated by independent peer assessment.
Introduction
As the demands on drug discovery continue to grow, research teams face increasing pressure to deliver scientific insight with greater transparency and efficiency.
Meeting these expectations requires more than technological advancement; it calls for a collaborative infrastructure that supports the full spectrum of experimental workflows.
From early-stage in vitro studies to complex in vivo investigations, the ability to manage data and operations cohesively is essential.
Instem has partnered with the scientific community for decades, developing tools that help researchers navigate complexity and make informed decisions.
BioRails, a modular platform designed for in vitro ADME and DMPK workflows, provides a structured environment for managing experimental schedules, data, and insights. Its unified interface supports consistency and clarity across discovery pipelines.
In 2025, Instem expanded its capabilities by integrating RockStep Solutions and its Climb platform - a cloud-native solution for in vivo study management used by collaborators across the discovery spectrum. Climb strengthens operational coordination and complements BioRails, contributing to a more connected and transparent research ecosystem (Fig 1, Fig 2).
This poster provides an overview of the infrastructure supporting modern drug discovery, highlighting how integrated platforms can enhance data integrity, facilitate collaboration, and expedite the development of safe and effective therapies.
Fig 1. BioRails and Climb functionality. Image Credit: Image courtesy of Frances Hall et al., in partnership with ELRIG (UK) Ltd.
Fig 2. A diagrammatic representation of data-rich drug discovery workflows being streamlined via the introduction of BioRails and Climb. Image Credit: Image courtesy of Frances Hall et al., in partnership with ELRIG (UK) Ltd.
In vitro case study – BioRails
Challenges
A large CRO required a scalable solution to manage diverse assay types and streamline workflows while maintaining regulatory compliance and data integrity.
Focus and solution
- Efficiency and time savings: The collaboration achieved faster turnaround times and more accurate results across a wide range of assays
- Improved client satisfaction and engagement: Leading to increased collaboration and repeat business
- Regulatory compliance: With standardized workflows and data management practices
Results
- 75 % reduction in set-up time
- 75 % Reduction in data processing
- 30-40 hours saved every week
- 100 % regulatory compliance
- 2× increase productivity and profitability
In vivo case study – Climb
Challenges
Large CRO pursued a strategy to digitalize in vivo research processes. The project aimed to improve their competitiveness in the CRO market.
Focus and solution
- Efficiency and time savings: Streamlining processes such as study design, scheduling, and data capture to save time and improve efficiency in study conduct
- Error reduction: Minimizing errors and deviations in study conduct by managing information more effectively and comprehensively throughout the study lifecycle
- Client satisfaction: Enhancing client experience by providing quick, consistent, and comprehensive solutions that meet their needs and expectations
Results
- 45 % reduction in study design time
- 90 % reduction in paper usage
- ~500 hours saved by automating drug formulations
- 100 % visibility of study tasks and designs
- 0 hours manually calendaring
Image Credit: Image courtesy of Frances Hall et al., in partnership with ELRIG (UK) Ltd.
Conclusion
As drug discovery continues to evolve, the integration of purpose-built platforms for managing both in vitro and in vivo studies is becoming increasingly essential. Tools like BioRails and Climb provide researchers with structured, interoperable environments that support data integrity, operational efficiency, and scientific insight throughout the drug discovery landscape.
These solutions help scientists navigate complexity and collaborate more effectively. They offer a foundation for agile and informed decision-making. The combined portfolio reflects a shared vision: technology supporting efficiency and scientific excellence.
While challenges remain in achieving full integration across discovery and development domains, the infrastructure outlined here represents meaningful progress toward a more connected and transparent future in drug discovery.
Instem’s continued commitment to the research community and investment in scientific technology reflects a broader commitment to supporting the development of safe and effective therapies through better data and science.
About Instem
Instem is a UK-founded company established in 1969 that provides SaaS platforms and services to the life sciences industry.
The company delivers software solutions across areas including in-silico data insights, study management, regulatory submission, and clinical-trial analytics.
About ELRIG (UK) Ltd.
The European Laboratory Research & Innovation Group (ELRIG) is a leading European not-for-profit organization that exists to provide outstanding scientific content to the life science community. The foundation of the organization is based on the use and application of automation, robotics and instrumentation in life science laboratories, but over time, we have evolved to respond to the needs of biopharma by developing scientific programmes that focus on cutting-edge research areas that have the potential to revolutionize drug discovery.
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Last Updated: Nov 27, 2025