Tessel Biosciences Secures Funding for Safer Drug Development
Tessel Biosciences is thrilled to announce that it has been awarded funding through the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) CATALYST program. This grant may reach up to $4.2 million and is part of a collaborative contract awarded to the PREDICTS consortium, which includes notable partners such as Ginkgo Bioworks, Netrias, and MIDO. The alliance is set to revolutionize how we evaluate drug safety and effectiveness, making significant strides toward more human-relevant testing methods.
Transforming Drug Safety with Virtual Tissues
The approach Tessel takes hinges on the intersection of organoid biology and artificial intelligence. Their innovative work involves creating virtual tissues that accurately mimic human biology, thereby simulating how drugs interact with actual patient-derived cells. This technology is crucial, as it has the potential to significantly reduce the reliance on animal testing by providing more relevant human-like models for drug response.
Advancing Human Tissue Models
As a pivotal member of the PREDICTS consortium, Tessel aims to develop and improve primary human tissue models that reflect the gut, kidney, and blood-brain barrier. Understanding how drugs traverse these critical barriers will inform the development of more effective therapeutics. Additionally, the data generated through these advanced models will support computational analyses of small molecule ADMET (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, and Toxicity) properties.
The Vision Ahead
CEO Naren Tallapragada expressed his enthusiasm about this award, stating, "This funding reinforces our belief in the potential of virtual tissues to redefine health and pharmaceutical development. By integrating state-of-the-art AI with intricate in vitro models, we are paving the way for a future where we can predict drug responses without animal trials. Our team's dedication to merging laboratory experiments with computational strategies underlines our commitment to innovating drug design."
Embracing New Methodologies
Tessel's role in the CATALYST program isn't just limited to funding acquisition; it’s about accelerating the adoption of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) within the industry. By enhancing the scope of its virtual tissue models, Tessel not only aims to improve its pipeline for drug candidates but also aspires to contribute to a broader shift in how pharmaceuticals are developed and tested.
About Tessel Biosciences
Tessel Biosciences stands at the forefront of drug design and safety evaluation, leveraging virtual tissue technology to predict drug performance in humans. The company is committed to improving therapeutic development through its innovative models, particularly focusing on conditions like lung disease and chronic inflammation. Their advanced predictive capabilities reflect a growing trend towards precision medicine, ensuring more tailored and effective interventions for patients.
Getting in Touch
If you wish to learn more about Tessel Biosciences’ pioneering work, you can reach out to Naren Tallapragada, the CEO, for further information. Tessel is dedicated to engaging with the scientific community and stakeholders who share their passion for innovative healthcare solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the ARPA-H CATALYST program?
The ARPA-H CATALYST program is designed to advance new technologies and methodologies that improve drug safety and therapeutic development through innovative collaborations.
Who does the PREDICTS consortium include?
The PREDICTS consortium consists of several key partners, including Tessel Biosciences, Ginkgo Bioworks, Netrias, and MIDO, along with product sponsors like ImmVue and Sanford Burnham Prebys.
How does Tessel's technology reduce animal testing?
Tessel’s virtual tissue models simulate human biological responses, allowing for more accurate predictions of drug effects without the ethical and practical concerns of animal testing.
What are the benefits of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs)?
NAMs support safer drug development by enabling more reliable simulations of drug behavior, ultimately leading to better therapeutic outcomes and reduced risks in clinical trials.
How can I contact Tessel Biosciences?
You can contact Tessel Biosciences through their CEO, Naren Tallapragada, at contact@tessel.bio for inquiries regarding their research or collaboration opportunities.
