BARDA Seeks Input on AI-Enabled Discovery of Broad-Spectrum Small-Molecule Filovirus Therapeutics

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The Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) focused on AI-Enabled Discovery of Broad-Spectrum Small-Molecule Inhibitors for Filoviruses.

TL;DR
• BARDA seeks input on AI-enabled discovery of broad-spectrum small-molecule filovirus therapeutics.
• The RFI aims to assess the current landscape of AI-enabled drug discovery capabilities.
• Respondents are asked to provide high-level rough-order-of-magnitude cost and timeline estimates.

Summary
BARDA has issued a Request for Information (RFI) on AI‑enabled discovery of broad‑spectrum small‑molecule inhibitors for filoviruses such as Ebola, Sudan, and Marburg. The solicitation seeks technical expertise in AI design, lead selection, and early preclinical evaluation, with a focus on direct‑acting antivirals that demonstrate activity across multiple negative‑sense RNA viruses.
• Leverage AI and in silico workflows to accelerate lead identification and reduce time to in vivo proof‑of‑concept.
• Prioritize synthetic feasibility and ADME‑Tox prediction to streamline medicinal chemistry pipelines.
• Integrate iterative model refinement with experimental data to mitigate viral resistance and enhance potency.
• Build partnerships that combine computational, medicinal chemistry, and preclinical testing capabilities for a comprehensive discovery platform.

The RFI emphasizes a virus‑family‑level approach, encouraging solutions that target conserved viral mechanisms rather than single‑virus targets. BARDA prefers direct‑acting antivirals but accepts host‑targeted strategies if they affect viral replication. Candidates must show broad activity against EBOV, SUDV, and MARV, with additional preference for activity against other negative‑sense RNA viruses.

Respondents must provide high‑level cost and timeline estimates from in silico design to in vivo proof‑of‑concept, and submit a concise technical response no longer than five pages. The RFI is a market‑research exercise; it does not obligate BARDA to award funding but will inform future acquisition planning and potential funding opportunities.

Organizations with AI‑enabled discovery platforms, medicinal chemistry expertise, antiviral testing experience, or preclinical development infrastructure are encouraged to respond by June 17, 2026. Participation positions firms for future Rapid Response Partnership Vehicle solicitations and strengthens national preparedness against high‑consequence filovirus outbreaks.

By accelerating the identification of broad-spectrum small-molecule therapeutics against filoviruses, this effort could help close a critical gap in the current antiviral pipeline and strengthen preparedness for future outbreaks.