Quantum computers simulate largest protein with 12,635 atoms, advancing drug discovery research.

A research team from Cleveland Clinic, RIKEN, and IBM has simulated the largest biologically meaningful molecule ever modeled with quantum computers, a protein containing 12,635 atoms. This breakthrough was achieved by combining quantum and classical computing methods, known as quantum-centric supercomputing, improving the accuracy and speed of molecular simulations. The work enhances the potential for drug discovery by better predicting how medicines interact with protein targets. The team’s progress was recognized as a finalist for the 2026 ACM Gordon Bell Prize, with results demonstrating a path toward more accessible and precise quantum-classical hybrid computing in life sciences.