Virtual drug discovery and development for neglected diseases through public-private partnerships

In this article, we discuss the challenges, recent developments and new thinking on drug R&D for neglected diseases through public-private partnerships. The focus on virtual drug discovery and development as operationalized through these partnerships brings many advantages, as well as scientific and managerial challenges. Some are common to those faced by all drug R&D ventures. Others, for example the need for drugs with a very low cost of manufacture that are easy to use in resource-poor environments and an active engagement in disease-endemic countries, are unique to this novel paradigm.