Quantum computers simulate largest biologically meaningful protein complex, advancing drug discovery potential.

Scientists from IBM, Cleveland Clinic, and RIKEN have used quantum-centric supercomputing to simulate a protein complex with over 12,600 atoms, the largest such simulation on quantum hardware to date. This breakthrough, achieved by combining quantum and classical supercomputers with a novel algorithm, marks a significant step toward using quantum computing to solve complex biological problems, including drug discovery. The improved accuracy and scale could shorten drug development timelines by better predicting drug-protein interactions. This milestone demonstrates quantum computing's emerging practical role in life sciences and chemistry research.