The field of cell therapy has made significant strides in recent years, with promising treatments now available for certain cancers and rare diseases. However, the widespread implementation of these living medicines remains a challenge due to scientific and financial hurdles. Start-up Syntax Bio, led by co-founder and CEO Ryan Clarke, aims to address these obstacles by revolutionizing cell therapy manufacturing and making it more accessible and cost-effective for patients.
Addressing the Manufacturing Challenge:
As cell therapy research transitions from treating rare diseases to more prevalent conditions, the costs associated with these treatments continue to rise. Clarke highlights the unsustainability of these soaring costs for the healthcare system. To overcome this barrier, numerous research efforts are underway to improve cell therapy manufacturing methods.
Automation and Gene-Editing Technologies:
Some research focuses on automating the manufacturing process using robotics and software. Others utilize gene-editing technologies to reduce the risk of adverse immune responses in cell therapy recipients. Syntax Bio takes a unique approach by working with induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), which possess the ability to transform into various types of cells. The company leverages the revolutionary CRISPR technology to guide iPSCs through the necessary steps, leading them to develop into specific cell types.
Syntax Bio’s Journey:
Founded in 2021 in Chicago, Syntax Bio has made substantial progress in refining its technology within a short period. The start-up has successfully converted iPSCs into four different cell types and was recognized as the winner in the biopharma track at the prestigious MedCity News INVEST conference. With the aim of further advancing its technology, Syntax Bio is seeking $20 million in Series A financing.
The Technology: Cellular Algorithms:
Syntax Bio’s platform technology originates from Clarke’s research at the University of Illinois Chicago, where he focused on transcription factors controlling stem cell development. Unlike other approaches, Syntax’s method encompasses a multi-step differentiation process that better mimics the natural progression of cells within the body. The company’s process is regulated by episomal plasmids called “Cellgorithms,” which utilize CRISPR to selectively turn genes on or off, directing iPSCs towards their intended final cell state. This code-like approach allows for flexibility and precision in programming cells.
Advancing Technology and Future Prospects:
Syntax Bio has already published research describing the first generation of their Cellgorithm system, laying the foundation for $9 million in seed financing. The company is now on its third generation, which is more efficient and modular. This new funding round aims to demonstrate the efficacy of cells produced by Syntax’s Cellgorithms in laboratory tests, followed by validation through animal testing. The potential of Syntax Bio’s technology has been recognized as a paradigm-shifting method that could revolutionize cell therapy manufacturing.
Partnerships and Collaborations:
Syntax Bio’s strategy involves not only advancing its cell therapies for human testing but also collaborating with other stakeholders in the cell therapy ecosystem. This includes partnering with more prominent pharmaceutical companies and entities involved in research and development and manufacturing. By integrating their technology with others, Syntax Bio can enhance scalability in cell manufacturing, enabling a broader impact on patient populations.
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