EXCLUSIVE: This Startup Just Raised $26 Million To Develop Safer Gene Editing Tools
ene-editing technology using Crispr holds a lot of promise for treating genetic disorders like type 1 diabetes and sickle cell anemia. There are currently studies right now that have demonstrated effectiveness by actually changing patients DNA to correct mutations. The FDA is weighing approval of at least one treatment using this technology by the end of the year.
That’s where San Francisco-based Amber Bio comes in. It uses Crispr gene editing tools to target RNA, rather than DNA, which has the potential to correct a broader variety of genetic disorders while reducing safety risks. On Thursday, the company announced that it had emerged from stealth with a $26 million seed funding round that was led by Playground Global. Eli Lilly, Andreessen Horowitz, Hummingbird Ventures and other firms participated in the round as well.
That approach involves editing the RNA in the cell, which is what cells use to make needed proteins by copying instructions on what to make from DNA. By targeting RNA rather than DNA with its Crispr tools, Al-Shayeb believes they could correct the outcomes of genetic defects without running into many of the challenges involved in making changes to the DNA itself.30 Under 30 list for Science, says he met Jacob Borrajo through mutual friends and that the two soon became an “unconventional team.
Amber isn’t the only biotech company looking into the potential of using gene editing tools in combination with RNA. Other competitors include Korro Bio, Wave Life Sciences and Shape Therapeutics. But Jory Bell, a general partner at Playground Global, thinks the pair are up to the challenge. “We think it's a lot easier to find world class scientists and support them into becoming successful entrepreneurs than the other way around.
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This Startup Just Raised $26 Million To Develop Safer Gene Editing ToolsBy targeting RNA rather than DNA, Amber Bio aims to treat multiple genetic diseases with fewer safety risks.
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This Startup Just Raised $26 Million To Develop Safer Gene Editing ToolsBy targeting RNA rather than DNA, Amber Bio aims to treat multiple genetic diseases with fewer safety risks.
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