Biotransformation
has a huge impact on the efficacy and safety
of drugs. Ultimately the effects of metabolism can be the lynchpin
in the discovery and development cycle of a new drug. This article
discusses the impact and application of biotransformation of drugs
by mammalian systems, microorganisms, and recombinant enzymes, covering
active and reactive metabolites, the impact of the gut microbiome
on metabolism, and how insights gained from biotransformation studies
can influence drug design from the combined perspectives of a CRO
specializing in a range of biotransformation techniques and pharma
biotransformation scientists. We include a commentary on how biology-driven
approaches can complement medicinal chemistry strategies in drug optimization
and the in vitro and surrogate systems available
to explore and exploit biotransformation.