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No glove fits every hand perfectly, and it’s the same with software. Patrik discusses the similarities and differences between the StarDrop and LiveDesign platforms for molecular discovery.
Finding the right fit
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to data visualisation and analysis tools for drug development efforts. It’s all about finding the right fit for your specific needs.
One of the most well-known platforms in this field is Schrodinger’s LiveDesign. I often get asked about the differences between StarDrop and LiveDesign. Therefore, I thought it’d be useful to do a quick summary of the two platforms and their individual strengths.
How does LiveDesign support drug discovery?
Let’s start with LiveDesign. LiveDesign is a cloud-based platform, supporting data analysis and visualisation. It enables users to perform a range of molecular enumerations, SAR analyses, and build and use predictive models. It can help users track project status across the full DMTA cycle, and handle both small molecules and biologics. LiveDesign contains 2D design and optimisation functionalities.
LiveDesign is well integrated with the rest of the Schrodinger software stack, so if you’re using Maestro for 3D design already, it might be the right platform for you. It also integrates with a small range of other systems, such as CDD Vault, Spotfire and Simulations Plus.
How does StarDrop compare to LiveDesign?
StarDrop has a similarly broad range of features across drug discovery, with core functionalities supporting SAR analysis and multi-parameter optimisation, plus a whole host of optional plug-in modules. These include generative chemistry, in silico modelling, and 3D design modules.
StarDrop is most appropriate for small molecule discovery – if you’re working with biologics, it may not be the platform for you (but you might be interested in BioPharmics)
StarDrop is deployable in a way that suits you, with either cloud-access or on-premise installation depending on your IT needs, and the option for hosted servers. It integrates with a wide range of other software, including CDD Vault, Certara D360, LiveDesign, Manifold and many more. The pose generation interface connects you to your preferred docking methods (Surflex-Dock, Gold, or AutoDock Vina to name just a few).
StarDrop and LiveDesign: complementary platforms
As I said, there’s a live connection between the two platforms. So here’s the key point—it’s not an either/or choice. StarDrop and LiveDesign can work together, complementing each other beautifully. You can use LiveDesign for team-wide data visualisation while relying on StarDrop for specific workflows that need an extra layer of simplicity and efficiency. Or vice versa!
Which drug discovery software is right for me?
So in summary, LiveDesign is a great choice, especially if you’re already using elements of the Schrodinger software stack and if you’re working in biologics. StarDrop could also be the platform for you, if you’re in small molecule discovery and looking for easy, intuitive software with a broad range of features and integrations. But it’s not an either or choice. You can import or export Live Reports directly from StarDrop and use the best of both platforms should you wish.
In the end, it’s about picking the tool(s) that fits your hand just right. And that’s the best way to get the most out of your workflow.
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About the author
Patrik Nikolić, MSc
Patrik is a medicinal chemist with a strong background in drug discovery, dedicated to streamlining workflows and advancing innovative therapies. At Optibrium, he serves as Scientific Strategy Partner, driving initiatives that empower researchers.
He holds a Master’s in Medicinal and Pharmaceutical Chemistry and a Bachelor’s in Biotechnology and Drug Research from the University of Rijeka, graduating summa cum laude with expertise in in silico design, enzyme assays, and biomolecular studies.
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