Biotechnology
This research-intensive industry utilizes living organisms and biological systems to develop advanced, often genetic-based therapies to treat complex diseases.
Why it exists
Biotechnology exists to harness biological systems to create new therapies, diagnostics, and medical platforms.
Why it’s necessary
Many diseases cannot be addressed by traditional chemistry alone. Biotech enables precision medicine, genetic therapies, and disease modification at the molecular level.
Key components
Research & discovery platforms
Clinical trials (Phases I–III)
Regulatory approval pathways
Intellectual property portfolios
How to evaluate businesses
Pipeline quality, probability-weighted outcomes, funding runway, regulatory risk, and platform versatility matter more than current revenue for many firms. Scientific credibility and trial design quality are existential.
How the industry could be improved
Faster trial recruitment, AI-assisted molecule design, adaptive trial structures, real-world evidence integration, and better capital efficiency between discovery and commercialization.