#BIOSPAIN2025 | “This forum is a key platform to share knowledge, establish collaborations, and showcase the work of centers like CITRE”

AseBio: CITRE is celebrating 15 years in Seville as the only preclinical and early-phase research center of Bristol Myers Squibb outside the U.S. What strategic role does this center play within the company’s global R&D network?

Carlos Mackintosh: CITRE is BMS’s only preclinical and translational research center outside the U.S., making it a strategic pillar within our global innovation network. From Seville, this multidisciplinary hub participates in over 65% of global preclinical R&D programs in oncology and hematology, actively contributing to the development of transformative therapies that directly impact patients’ lives.

AseBio: CITRE’s three main pillars are translational biology, advanced computing, and preclinical research. How are these areas integrated to accelerate the delivery of innovative therapies to patients?

Carlos Mackintosh: At CITRE, these three disciplines are combined synergistically. Translational biology allows us to model human diseases in the lab; advanced computing, including artificial intelligence, optimizes data analysis and molecule design; and preclinical research validates new therapies in early stages. This combination accelerates the transition from basic science to real clinical solutions with a positive impact on patients.

AseBio: One of CITRE’s distinguishing features is the application of artificial intelligence in biomedical research. Could you share concrete examples of how AI is transforming molecule design or biomarker identification?

Carlos Mackintosh: AI is redefining how we conduct research. At CITRE, we use generative AI to design therapeutic molecules, imaging algorithms to classify patients and define biomarkers, and deep learning models to validate therapeutic targets in silico. We also employ language models to accelerate scientific literature review. All of this allows us to advance faster and with greater precision.

AseBio: CITRE has developed CELMoD® agents related to protein degradation. Why does this platform represent a paradigm shift in treating diseases like cancer or hematologic syndromes?

Carlos Mackintosh: Targeted protein degradation represents a therapeutic revolution. CELMoD® agents, developed at CITRE, leverage the cellular machinery to eliminate proteins previously considered “undruggable,” opening new avenues to treat diseases such as multiple myeloma, lymphomas, or solid tumors. BMS is a pioneer in this platform and the only company to successfully commercialize these agents.

AseBio: The center has around 70 employees from 14 different nationalities, all with PhDs. How does CITRE contribute to attracting, training, and retaining top scientific talent in Spain and Europe?

Carlos Mackintosh: With a highly qualified international team, CITRE provides a cutting-edge research environment, collaborates with more than 20 hospitals, and participates in global projects. This reinforces its role as a driver of biomedical innovation in Europe and a magnet for scientific talent committed to turning science into real-world impact.

AseBio: CITRE participates in over 65% of BMS’s global preclinical research programs in Oncology and Hematology. What recent advances would you highlight, and how might they impact patients’ future?

Carlos Mackintosh: Among the most relevant advances are progress in immuno-oncology, protein degradation, personalized biomarkers, and the application of AI in drug discovery. These areas are generating more precise and effective therapies for serious diseases such as hematologic cancers, solid tumors, and myelodysplastic syndromes, with a transformative potential for patients.

AseBio: This year, Bristol Myers Squibb is a Silver Sponsor of BIOSPAIN 2025. What led you to support this event, and what do you expect from your participation in an international reference forum for biotechnology?

Carlos Mackintosh: BMS’s collaboration with BIOSPAIN reaffirms our commitment to biomedical innovation and the biotech ecosystem. This forum is a key platform to share knowledge, establish collaborations, and showcase the work of centers like CITRE, which from Seville contribute to the global advancement of science as a driver of transformation. We hope to connect with other industry leaders, share insights, and continue driving the future of biotechnology together.