Takeda signed a multiyear drug‑discovery agreement valued at roughly $1.7 billion with Iambic Therapeutics to apply AI‑driven discovery tools across oncology, GI and inflammation targets. The deal grants Takeda access to Iambic’s generative and optimization engines to accelerate small‑molecule programs and target selection. Companies emphasized the partnership’s scope—discovery collaboration plus potential option exercises—and presented it as a model for pharma integrating AI into R&D. Analysts noted the pact follows other large AI alliances and underscores strategic interest in reducing early‑stage timelines.