We build DNA computers to cure disease
What if a therapy worked like a computer inside a cell?
First
we write the code
The "code" is a molecular program that guides the therapy once it’s administered to the patient. To write the code, we analyze big life science datasets to understand molecular patterns of diseased and healthy patient cells. This understanding is compressed into a molecular program that tells the therapy how to act.
Second
we compile
We "compile" the molecular program to DNA sequence in a systematic way using proprietary technologies. The resulting DNA sequence is now able to execute the instructions of the program in patient cells to target and eradicate disease.
Third
we test
We extensively validate individual components and fully integrated therapeutic candidates in sophisticated and clinically-translatable in vitro and in vivo model settings, and iterate if needed to fine tune the performance and hit efficacy and safety targets.
See how we built a drug to reprogram liver cancer in mice.
Our first-of-its kind approach is firmly rooted in the engineering mindset. We hope that this new approach to therapies will lead to a number of dramatic changes to patient care and clinical practice.
We compute in human cells using transcription factors, microRNAs, promoters and enhancers as inputs. These are important disease drivers that are by and large “undruggable” with conventional small molecule drugs or biologics. Using these inputs unlocks the treasure trove of knowledge on disease origins and progression to build therapies.
Ample knowledge exists on molecules that can kill, drive an immune response against, or reprogram cells; however, these molecules are often very toxic on their own and cannot be administered to patients. In combination with a precision molecular program, these molecules can be used as therapeutic effectors in a safe manner.
Our systematic design process generates candidates at shorter timescales, reduced cost, and a higher probability of success.
Our approach has the potential to lead to cancer therapies that are tailored to tumor molecular patterns and are both very safe and very potent. Such therapies may one day be used also in early-stage cancer patients who will forgo surgery in favor of a medicine.
Pattern BioSciences mission is made possible by some of the most revolutionary.....
Keller Rinaudo Cliffton
Founder and CEO of Zipline
