Abstract
The application of artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine, particularly through machine learning (ML), marked a significant progression in drug discovery. AI acts as a powerful catalyst in narrowing the gap between disease understanding and the identification of potential therapeutic agents. This review provides an inclusive summary of the latest advancements in AI and its application in drug discovery. We examine the various stages of the drug discovery process, starting from disease identification and encompassing diagnosis, target identification, screening, and lead discovery. AI's capability to analyze extensive datasets and discern patterns is essential in these stages, enhancing predictions and efficiencies in disease identification, drug discovery, and clinical trial management. The role of AI in expediting drug development is emphasized, highlighting its potential to analyze vast data volumes, thus reducing the time and costs associated with new drug market introduction. The importance of data quality, algorithm training, and ethical considerations, especially in patient data handling during clinical trials, is addressed. By considering these factors, AI promises to transform drug development, offering significant benefits to patients and society.