Dr. Mariano Garcia-Blanco Elected to the National Academy of Sciences for Contributions in Biotechnology

Dr. Mariano Garcia-Blanco Elected to the National Academy of Sciences

Autoimmunity BioSolutions (ABS), an innovative biotechnology firm, has made headlines with the election of its co-founder and Scientific Advisory Board chair, Dr. Mariano A. Garcia-Blanco, to the prestigious National Academy of Sciences (NAS). This recognition comes as the NAS acknowledged 120 new members and 30 international members for their exceptional contributions to scientific research.

Dr. Garcia-Blanco is recognized for his significant advancements in the fields of RNA biology and immunology. He currently holds the position of the F. Palmer Weber Medical Research Professor and Chair of the Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology at the University of Virginia. His pioneering work has enhanced the understanding of gene regulation, virology, and immunology, which has been instrumental in developing cutting-edge therapies aimed at treating autoimmune diseases.

During his time at Duke University and the University of Texas Medical Branch, Dr. Garcia-Blanco, alongside Dr. Gaddiel Galarza-Muñoz, laid the groundwork for what would eventually become Autoimmunity BioSolutions. The company's focus is on a targeted approach to immuno-corrective therapy, specifically for a genetically-defined group of patients suffering from autoimmune diseases. This innovative direction stems from their collective research, which revealed that a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) significantly heightens the risk and severity of autoimmune reactions.

Dr. Garcia-Blanco expressed his appreciation upon receiving this honor, stating, "I’m deeply honored to be elected to the National Academy of Sciences. I am happy that our work on fundamental RNA biology led to discoveries that ABS is developing into new therapies that will improve the lives of patients with autoimmune diseases." This belief underscores his commitment to transforming research into practical applications for individuals afflicted by complex autoimmune conditions.

Autoimmunity BioSolutions has emerged as a frontrunner in the field, targeting therapies that engage with the interleukin-7 receptor (IL7R) pathway, specifically influenced by the soluble interleukin-7 receptor (sIL7R). This pathway has been identified as a crucial amplifying agent in autoimmune disorders. A staggering number of autoimmune disease patients—up to fifty percent—fail to respond to existing standard care options, many of whom possess the SNP linked to increased disease severity and elevated sIL7R levels. The targeted therapies being developed by ABS, alongside their proprietary diagnostics, have the potential to drastically advance treatment options, providing hope for patients who have been underserved in current medical practice.

Gene Williams, the CEO of ABS, praised Dr. Garcia-Blanco's election, remarking, "Mariano's election to the National Academy of Sciences is a profound and well-deserved recognition of a career spent shaping the frontiers of genetics and RNA biology. His scientific vision has been foundational to ABS from the start, and his contributions continue to guide our pursuit of transformative medicines." This statement reflects the admiration and respect Dr. Garcia-Blanco has earned throughout his career.

The National Academy of Sciences, founded in 1863, is a distinguished non-profit organization devoted to the advancement of science and engineering. Membership within this esteemed institution is considered one of the highest honors in the scientific community, acknowledging individuals for their outstanding research contributions.

As ABS continues to make strides in biotechnology, the recognition of Dr. Garcia-Blanco stands as a testament to the innovative spirit and dedication that drives the company forward. With ongoing research paving the way for novel therapeutic approaches, the future holds promise for both the company and the patients it aims to assist. Through their commitment to improving the lives of those affected by autoimmune diseases, ABS exemplifies the transformative power of scientific inquiry and discovery.

About Autoimmunity BioSolutions

Autoimmunity BioSolutions (ABS) is a biotechnology startup focused on developing precision-targeted immuno-corrective therapies for autoimmune diseases. The company seeks to address the challenges faced by genetically-defined patients who show heightened susceptibility to autoimmune disorders, employing proprietary diagnostics alongside innovative treatments. With a mission to revolutionize the standards of care in this therapeutic area, ABS is dedicated to unlocking the potential of cutting-edge biotechnology for the benefit of patients worldwide.