AI Proteins, Inc., a biotechnology firm based in Boston, has announced a significant research collaboration with pharmaceutical giant Bristol Myers Squibb (BMY) aimed at advancing the development of novel miniprotein-based therapeutics using AI-driven technologies. The announcement comes as AI Proteins embarks on leveraging its innovative computational de novo protein design capabilities to discover and optimise therapeutic miniproteins tailored to specific targets of interest identified by Bristol Myers Squibb.
The collaboration will see AI Proteins applying its proprietary platform, which integrates artificial intelligence, synthetic biology, and laboratory automation, to create miniproteins distinguished by their small molecular size and high affinity for target proteins. These miniproteins are expected to offer substantial benefits over conventional antibody therapies, such as enhanced tissue penetration and quicker bioclearance rates. Chris Bahl, PhD, President, CSO, and Founder of AI Proteins, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “We are excited to partner with Bristol Myers Squibb to bring our cutting-edge protein design technology to the clinic.” He added, “By combining our expertise in protein engineering with Bristol Myers Squibb’s deep knowledge of pharmaceutical development, we aim to create a new generation of targeted therapies that can transform patient outcomes.”
Under the terms of the agreement, AI Proteins will receive an upfront cash payment as it embarks on discovering and optimising miniproteins for two undisclosed therapeutic targets. Bristol Myers Squibb retains the option for an exclusive worldwide license on these miniproteins alongside two additional target options, contingent upon an expansion fee and potential milestone payments related to development, regulatory approval, and commercialisation. The total potential value of the agreement could reach $400 million, in addition to royalties on net sales resulting from the collaboration.
AI Proteins is focused on re-imagining protein therapeutics through its advanced approach to designing completely new proteins. The company is currently progressing its own pipeline in oncology while also seeking partnerships in other therapeutic areas such as inflammation and metabolic diseases. The firm's technology is designed to facilitate the swift development of cost-effective, durable, and highly specific therapeutic proteins, suitable for various delivery methods. The AI Proteins platform enables rapid advancement of lead candidates through the drug development stages, ideally positioning the company at the forefront of the biotechnology sector as it explores the potential of AI in therapeutic development.
Source: Noah Wire Services