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In this episode of the IT/OT Insider podcast, David engages in a compelling conversation with Toni Manzano, a seasoned professional in the pharmaceutical sector and co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer at Aizon. They explore the application of IT/OT convergence in the pharmaceutical industry, where precision, regulation, and innovation intersect in complex ways.
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The life sciences industry, which includes pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and medical devices, plays a vital role in enhancing global health through innovative therapies, diagnostics, and treatments. This sector significantly contributes to the global economy, with the pharmaceutical industry alone generating about $1.6 trillion in global revenue in 2023. Let’s dive into this fascinating field and uncover how digital solutions are revolutionizing medicine development and production!
From Astrophysics to Pharma
Toni shares his remarkable journey from teaching astrophysics to leading software innovation in the stringent pharmaceutical industry. He discusses his work on Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), which were eventually acquired by major corporations. Toni highlights the persistent challenges and impressive advancements in pharma manufacturing technologies. “Twenty years ago, LIMS and MES were revolutionary, and today they remain crucial,” he notes, emphasizing the ongoing importance of these systems despite slow adaptation.
AI in Pharma: Beyond the Buzz
They delve into the current excitement around artificial intelligence (AI) in various sectors, including pharmaceuticals. Toni describes AI as a blend of power computing, algorithms, mathematics, and, crucially, quality data for pharma. “The secret sauce in pharma AI is quality data. Without it, AI cannot succeed,” Toni explains.
Toni recounts a scenario involving human plasma, a unique and invaluable resource in pharmaceutical production. Unlike other materials where quality issues may lead to batch rejection, human plasma must be used efficiently. He illustrates how AI can integrate vast amounts of operational and quality data to optimize processes, ensuring each batch meets quality standards without wasting resources. This example showcases AI’s transformative potential in managing the complexities of pharma manufacturing.
Challenges and Conservatism
Discussing the conservatism in the pharmaceutical industry, Toni points out that significant profitability can deter rapid innovation. “High earnings from the status quo reduce the perceived need for change,” he says, highlighting a major barrier to adopting new technologies in a profitable yet traditionally managed sector.
Regulatory Insights and the Path Forward
Toni also addresses the crucial role of regulations in pharma, which ensure the safety, quality, and efficacy of medical products. He notes the evolving regulatory frameworks that increasingly accommodate modern computational methods, including AI. “Regulatory bodies are encouraging innovation and modernization in the pharmaceutical industry,” Toni states, indicating a gradual shift towards advanced, data-driven manufacturing processes.
Future Outlook
As the conversation concludes, Toni expresses optimism about the future of IT/OT convergence in pharma, driven by societal demands for rapid innovation and a generational shift towards tech-savvy leadership. “Young executives live with digital technology daily. It’s not foreign; it’s essential,” he remarks.
Find Toni on LinkedIn: Toni Manzano on LinkedIn
Learn more about Aizon: Visit Aizon