On August 28, Dongguan-based pharmaceutical company HEC announced a global first: an AI large language model specifically designed for pharmaceutical formulation. Known as HEC-PharmAI, this breakthrough could change the way new medicines are developed. 

Unlike general AI tools, HEC-PharmAI focuses entirely on pharmaceutical formulations. In simple terms, it can suggest the best combination of ingredients for a medicine, warn scientists about risks in the manufacturing process and predict whether a new drug will behave as expected in the human body. 

Traditionally, these steps required years of experiments and trials. With AI, the process can be faster, cheaper, and smarter. 

The model draws on over 210,000 formulations, 12,000 academic papers, and 2,000 patents, plus HEC's own laboratory data. By combining this massive knowledge base with advanced AI training, HEC-PharmAI can provide researchers with precise and reliable guidance. 

HEC, founded in 2003, has grown into a leading innovator in China's pharmaceutical industry. On August 7, the company was listed on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong, signaling its ambition on the global stage. 

Dongguan, best known internationally as a manufacturing hub, is now emerging as a new biotech hotspot. In Songshan Lake alone, more than 500 biopharma companies have clustered, creating a complete innovation chain. HEC's breakthrough will not only speed up drug development but also strengthen Dongguan’s role in the Greater Bay Area's high-tech ecosystem. 

While still in its early stages, the world's first AI model for pharmaceutical formulation highlights how AI and life sciences are converging. For patients, it means hope: faster delivery of safer, more effective medicines. For Dongguan, it's a chance to shine on the global innovation map.