A new product begins in the research laboratory, where scientists and laboratory technicians use biotech tools to learn about the causes of disease. Their discoveries lead to new ideas about how to combat disease. For example, a type of protein called an antibody might be a cure for a particular disease. Many different antibodies are then tested to see which one works best.
Next, various corporate scientific professionals get involved:
- Patent attorneys ensure the new drug idea is protected from competitors.
- Medical and clinical personnel design and conduct clinical studies to evaluate the safety of the new drug in patients.
- Regulatory experts obtain FDA approval to market the new drug.
- Marketing and business executives evaluate its profitability.