Huazhong Agricultural University (HZAU) hosted a symposium on AI-driven innovation in veterinary medicine from July 10 to 11. Over 200 experts, scholars, and business executives from China and abroad attended to explore how artificial intelligence can transform the animal health industry.
The event focused on applying AI technologies across the veterinary drug value chain, including drug discovery, intelligent production, and disease prevention.
The symposium marked the first major industry event since the National Veterinary Drug Industry Technical Innovation Alliance established an AI-focused innovation alliance for the veterinary drug industry.
Zhang Yongjun, vice-president of HZAU, attended the opening ceremony and introduced the university's Veterinary DrugBank, a specialized database for veterinary medicines developed by a research team at HZAU. He also highlighted the university's collaboration with industry partners to establish an AI and synthetic biology research institute, as well as the development of an AI model, which has shortened early-stage drug screening from months to several weeks.
During the symposium, experts discussed AI-powered molecular design, protein engineering, smart pet medicine, regulatory compliance, and smart livestock farming. Participants also called for stronger cooperation in areas including data standards, talent development, and technology application.
The event established a platform for collaboration between academia and industry, accelerating the application of AI technologies in veterinary medicine and supporting the sustainable development of the animal health sector.