Data integration technologies: an unfulfilled revolution in the drug discovery process?

Abstract

Successful life science data integration is a complex feat facing today's researchers and bioinformaticians. It demands the seamless access, integration and query of unprecedented amounts of disparate biological data to advance the pace and effectiveness of new drug discovery. This article outlines the current state of technologies available to help achieve this feat. It explores the evolutionary processes that created these challenges, and the underpinnings of several technological innovations working to overcome them. Together, these technologies aim to change the face of drug R&D through an enhanced understanding and interpretation of life sciences data.