Genome Editing Tool Developed by BRAIN
- Novel CRISPR-Cas system
- Holding significant economic potential
- Different commercialization models currently being explored
Genome editing has lately become one of the most exciting technologies in biotechnology. It allows for the directed and precise insertion, deletion or modification in the genome of a living organism. The CRISPR-CAS system has provided a genetic tool with speed as well as simplicity that was previously unavailable to science.
BRAIN has developed a novel CRISPR-Cas tool using metagenomics sequencing and protein engineering to isolate a Non-Cas9 genome editing nuclease. Our scientist have achieved this breakthrough employing their expertise and practical R&D experience with genome editing knowledge available throughout the BRAIN Group.
BRAIN’s novel CRISPR associated nuclease has been validated internally as well as with partners and it has demonstrated DNA targeting activity in selected bacteria, fungi and yeast. Activity in plants has been achieved but still needs to be validated. Genome editing tests for additional application fields such as mammalian cell lines have been initiated and a first IP application to protect our nuclease sequence is already submitted.
Dr. Michael Krohn, Head R&D at BRAIN Biotech AG emphasizes: “The market for genome editing tools based on the CRISPR-Cas mechanism is just emerging and offers significant growth opportunities. Our BRAIN developed CRISPR associated nuclease will give us internal freedom to operate and we are currently exploring its potential beyond microorganisms and plants. This success is further evidence of our stated mission to create Breakthroughs. It makes me very proud that the innovative spirit of our scientists keeps creating new projects with real breakthrough potential.”
Adriaan Moelker, CEO BRAIN Biotech AG, comments: “We have stated in the past that we have several projects beyond the feasaibility phase with significant economic potential which might reach maturity to enter our BRAIN Incubator. This project does exactly that. Our BRAIN developed CRISP associated nuclease will enable us to speed up projects for our customers as well as the internal development of high efficiency producer strains. Our next step is to explore and develop appropriate business models to commercialize this exciting technology.”
Lukas Linnig, CFO BRAIN Biotech AG, says: “ We are very pleased by what we have already achieved and currently explore the best business model to further accelerate the development of this exciting genome editing tool. We aim to balance time too market, fields of application, investment requirements and potential partnering with the best interest of our shareholders for value creation.“
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.
For more information, please visit: https://www.brain-biotech.com, LinkedIn, Threads and YouTube.
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.