Ivona Costachescu 1 *, Maria-Raluca Gogu 1, 2, Gabriela-Dumitrița Stanciu 1, Bogdan-Ionel Tamba 1, 3
1 Prof. Ostin C. Mungiu Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine – CEMEX, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, Romania
2 Faculty of Biology, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University, Iasi, Romania
3 Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Algesiology, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, Romania
* Correspondence to: Ivona Costachescu, Prof. Ostin C. Mungiu Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine – CEMEX, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Str., 700115, Iasi, Romania. E-mail: ivona.costachescu@umfiasi.ro
Abstract
Digitalization is profoundly transforming preclinical research by reshaping experimental design, data acquisition and result interpretation. This article reviews the role of artificial intelligence, automation and digital monitoring in novel drug discovery, the implementation of the 3R principles (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement) and the study of complex diseases. Digital platforms support virtual screening, automated behavioral analysis and continuous physiological monitoring, thereby improving data precision, reducing unnecessary animal use and enhancing animal welfare. These technologies are particularly valuable in preclinical models of neurodegenerative and metabolic disorders, where they enable early detection of functional alterations and improved longitudinal disease characterization. Overall, digitalization does not replace traditional preclinical research but strengthens it, making preclinical studies more precise, more ethical and more reproducible.