Group 1: Core Insights - Zhang Lihe, a prominent figure in drug chemistry, has made significant contributions to the development of nucleic acid-targeted drugs and small molecules that regulate cell signaling, leading to innovative cancer treatments [1][2][4] - He emphasizes the importance of learning from failures in drug development, having voluntarily terminated a clinical trial for an anti-tumor drug due to its rapid metabolism in the human body, despite its initial promising results [5][19] - Zhang advocates for original innovation in China's pharmaceutical industry, stressing the need to move beyond imitation to create first-in-class drugs, which he considers the highest goal for scientific research [21][22] Group 2: Career and Achievements - Zhang's career spans over several decades, during which he has published over 200 influential papers and holds three significant patents, showcasing his extensive research output [23] - He played a pivotal role in establishing the National Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Biomimetic Drugs, and served as the dean of the School of Pharmacy at Peking University [17][19] - His research has focused on the intersection of chemistry and biology, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration to advance drug development and scientific understanding [17][19] Group 3: Personal Background and Philosophy - Born in 1937 in Jiangsu, Zhang's early life was marked by the turmoil of war, which shaped his determination to contribute to society through science [8][10] - He initially struggled academically but found his passion for drug research during his studies at Beijing Medical University, realizing the critical need for domestic drug development in China [10][13] - Zhang's philosophy emphasizes perseverance in research, stating that there are no shortcuts in scientific inquiry, and one must be prepared to endure challenges to achieve meaningful results [19][21]

Core Viewpoint - The article pays tribute to Zhang Lihe, a prominent figure in the field of pharmaceutical chemistry, highlighting his contributions to drug research and development, particularly in nucleic acid-targeted therapies and his commitment to innovation in China's pharmaceutical industry [4][25]. Group 1: Personal Background and Career - Zhang Lihe, born in 1937 in Yangzhou, Jiangsu, is an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and a professor at Peking University's School of Pharmacy [4]. - He was among the first in China to propose new approaches to drug research targeting nucleic acids, leading to the development of small molecule drugs that can precisely regulate cellular signals [4][25]. - Zhang's early life was marked by challenges, including the impact of the Second Sino-Japanese War, which shaped his determination to improve China's pharmaceutical landscape [7][11]. Group 2: Research Contributions - Zhang Lihe has successfully developed clinical anti-cancer injections and synthesized various nucleoside analogs, providing new pathways for antiviral drug design [4][25]. - He pioneered the concept of non-cytotoxic anti-tumor drugs, focusing on reversing tumor cells rather than directly killing them, which represents a significant shift in cancer treatment paradigms [5][6]. - His research led to the clinical study of 8-chloroadenosine, which showed promising results in inhibiting tumor cell growth with low toxicity, although it was ultimately withdrawn from clinical trials due to metabolic issues [6][5]. Group 3: Philosophy and Approach to Research - Zhang emphasizes the importance of patience and learning from failures in scientific research, advocating for a long-term commitment to foundational work [2][5]. - He believes that true innovation in pharmaceuticals requires moving beyond imitation to original research, aiming for "First in class" drugs rather than merely improving existing ones [25][19]. - His dedication to interdisciplinary collaboration has been crucial in advancing the field of chemical biology, despite facing skepticism from traditionalists in both chemistry and biology [20][22]. Group 4: Legacy and Influence - Zhang Lihe's influence extends to his students, whom he encourages to pursue groundbreaking research rather than simply following established paths [25][26]. - He has published over 200 impactful papers and holds three significant patents, underscoring his contributions to the field [25]. - His commitment to education and mentorship has fostered a new generation of researchers in nucleic acid drug development, establishing a legacy of innovation and excellence in the pharmaceutical industry [25][26].