Small molecules and their impact in drug discovery: A perspective on the occasion of the 125th anniversary of the Bayer Chemical Research Laboratory

The year 2021 marks the 125th anniversary of the Bayer Chemical Research Laboratory in Wuppertal, Germany. A significant number of prominent small-molecule drugs, from Aspirin to Xarelto, have emerged from this research site. In this review, we shed light on historic cornerstones of small-molecule drug research, discussing current and future trends in drug discovery as well as providing a personal outlook on the future of drug research with a focus on small molecules.

Automated summary

This article discusses the 125th anniversary of the Bayer Chemical Research Laboratory in Germany and highlights the significant contributions it has made to the development of small-molecule drugs. It also explores current and future trends in drug discovery, with a specific focus on small molecules.