Applied Biopharm Consulting Secures Grant to Evaluate Capsid Engineering Technology for Improved Gene Therapy Delivery

CORK, IRELAND, March 05, 2024 - Applied Biopharm Consulting Ltd has been awarded a grant from the Local Enterprise Office Cork North and West to fund a feasibility study, as part of an office-based assessment, to engineer viral capsids and other molecules using artificial intelligence and advanced computational tools. The grant will also be used for software licenses and computing infrastructure. 

The company aims to optimise the development of biomolecules, including engineered adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors using molecular screening techniques, which will improve the efficiency of delivering therapeutic genes to target cells. This is especially important for treating challenging medical conditions where traditional treatments may be limited.

At the core of Applied Biopharm’s innovation is the application of computer based techniques that use advanced methods to analyse large datasets of established protein structures. This allows the prediction of protein folding and interaction, aiding in the creation of novel gene therapies with better tissue specificity, improved delivery, and increased efficacy. Importantly, the technology’s flexibility allows Applied Biopharm to potentially apply these advanced techniques to develop other innovative therapies beyond AAV vectors.

Dr. Anthony Newcombe, Managing Director at Applied Biopharm Consulting Ltd. said: “Our goal is to develop applications to advance biopharmaceutical development by combining artificial intelligence, computational tools and molecular simulations to engineer AAV vectors and other biomolecules with improved precision."

Kevin Curran, Head of Enterprise from the Local Enterprise Office Cork North and West said: “We are delighted to provide a feasibility study grant to Applied Biopharm Consulting Ltd and we look forward to seeing the positive impact of their research."

The grant underscores Applied Biopharm’s dedication to advancing innovative solutions within the biopharmaceutical industry, while the core focus on consulting services continues to drive success for their clients in achieving manufacturing and compliance goals and bringing lifesaving products to market.

ENDS