Additional CRISPR Genome Editing Nucleases Identified
- Around 2,000 Class 2 CRISPR Nucleases identified
- Selective additional IP protection filed
- Partnering discussions started
BRAIN Biotech AG has identified around 2,000 so far untapped additional Class 2 CRISPR Nucleases using metagenomics sequencing which could be deployed for genome editing. With a focused investment approach the company has so far analyzed a limited number in detail and has already filed a first IP protection for 15 nucleases. BRAIN recently selected and announced a prime candidate, the so-called BRAIN Engineered Cas Nuclease (BEC), which is already applied in different organisms and projects.
In addition, the company has started initial partnering discussions and is open for further partners to accelerate the detailed screening of its further promising CRISPR Nuclease candidates.
Dr. Paul Scholz, heading the Cas nuclease discovery program at BRAIN Biotech AG states: “The now identified Class 2 CRISPR Nucleases will give us a strong basis to develop a broader diversity of genome editing tools. Science requires a choice of adequate tools for different applications. Genome editing is a very exciting enabling technology for many biotechnology innovations. We are very pleased that BRAIN can now make a strong contribution to the evolution of genome editing.”
Dr. Michael Krohn, Head R&D at BRAIN Biotech AG says: “We are expanding our footprint in genome editing. This will enable us to secure a broader IP position and to diversify our toolset. Together with partners we will accelerate this development and mobilize significantly larger financial and scientific resources. We are very excited to jointly advance in genome editing with our future partners.”
About BRAIN
BRAIN Biotech AG is a leading European supplier of bio-based products and solutions such as enzymes and proteins, microbial production strains, natural compounds and biotechnological solutions for more sustainable industrial processes. The company focuses on the fields of nutrition, health and environment.
BRAIN Biotech AG is the parent company of the international BRAIN Biotech Group. The Group's business activities are divided into three segments: The BioProducts segment comprises the product business with specialty enzymes and other proteins, for which the Group operates fermentation facilities in the United Kingdom and production facilities in continental Europe and the United States. The BioScience segment offers research-intensive custom solutions based on enzyme technology, strain development, bioprocess development and natural product screening. The BioIncubator segment conducts its own R&D projects or those initiated with partners with high value-added potential. A particularly promising incubator project is the development of the Company's own CRISPR-based gene editing technology platform, which is currently being established and expanded by Akribion Genomics (in foundation planning).
Through its own R&D activities, BRAIN Biotech Group is continuously expanding its product portfolio in the field of specialty enzymes and small molecules. The latter are the starting point for screenings, e.g. for novel drug candidates for pharmaceutical applications.
BRAIN Biotech AG has been listed on the Prime Standard of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange since February 9, 2016 (ticker symbol: BNN; securities identification number: ISIN DE0005203947 / WKN 520394). The company employs approximately 330 people and generated revenues of EUR 55,3 million in the fiscal year 2022/23.
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Disclaimer
This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements reflect the current views, expectations, and assumptions of the management of BRAIN Biotech AG, and are based on information currently available to the management. Forward-looking statements are no guarantees of future performance, and entail both known and unknown risks as well as uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Numerous factors exist that could influence the future performance of and future developments at BRAIN Biotech AG and the BRAIN Biotech Group. Such factors include, but are not limited to, changes in the general economic and competitive environment, risks associated with capital markets, currency exchange rate fluctuations, changes in international and national laws and regulations, in particular with respect to tax laws and regulations, as well as other factors. BRAIN Biotech AG does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements.