#United States #Boston #Scientific Advisory Board #Ascidian Therapeutics #RNA Editing

Ascidian Therapeutics Forms a Scientific Advisory Board

Ascidian Therapeutics, a forward-thinking biotechnology company dedicated to tackling human diseases through RNA rewriting techniques, has recently announced the creation of its Scientific Advisory Board (SAB). This strategic move aims to consolidate the expertise of leading researchers in RNA biology to further propel Ascidian's mission of developing innovative RNA editing therapies.

A Collective of Experts

The newly established SAB brings together some of the brightest minds in the field of RNA research. Michael Ehlers, MD, PhD, the President and CEO of Ascidian Therapeutics, expressed pride in the formation of the SAB, emphasizing how each member's unique perspective on RNA biology—ranging from structural studies to therapeutic applications—will serve as a valuable resource in aligning the company's scientific endeavors with transformational patient care.

Among the distinguished scientists joining the SAB are:

• - Roy Parker, PhD: A Distinguished Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Colorado Boulder. Parker's seminal contributions to understanding mRNA metabolism and RNA regulation have had profound implications for gene expression research.
• - Mariano A. Garcia-Blanco, MD, PhD: F. Palmer Weber Professor and Chair at the University of Virginia. Known for his pioneering work in RNA splicing, Garcia-Blanco has significantly advanced the understanding of RNA's role in various diseases.
• - Brenton R. Graveley, PhD: Professor and Chair of Genetics and Genome Sciences at UConn Health. Graveley's expertise in alternative splicing and RNA-binding proteins positions him as a key figure in genomic research efforts.
• - Silvi Rouskin, PhD: An Assistant Professor of Microbiology at Harvard Medical School, Rouskin's groundbreaking research focuses on RNA structure and its influence on gene expression, marking her as a leader in innovative RNA science.

Innovating RNA Therapy Development

Ascidian is focused on expanding the therapeutic potential of RNA medicine, particularly through its innovative RNA exon editing platform. This platform promises a precise method for rewriting RNA, thus addressing the roots of diseases without relying on foreign enzymes that can introduce genomic risks. Ascidian's first RNA exon editor is already in clinical development, with ambitions to treat various conditions that are currently inadequately addressed by existing gene editing techniques.

Roy Parker, one of the SAB members, noted the unique potential of Ascidian's approach to seamlessly interact with the body's native RNA splicing mechanisms, allowing for intricate editing of RNA bases within a single therapeutic framework. The collaboration between these seasoned researchers and Ascidian will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of the company’s groundbreaking scientific innovations.

Ascidian Therapeutics: Medical Revolutionaries

Ascidian Therapeutics, an ATP company, is dedicated to redefining the boundaries of disease treatment through RNA reprioritization. By providing therapeutic solutions that enable the accurate editing of RNA at the transcript level, Ascidian seeks to generate fully functional proteins at precise levels in designated cells, creating new avenues for therapeutic applications.

The significance of this approach extends across various diseases, including retinal, neurological, neuromuscular, and those defined by genetic mutations. Ascidian’s development of RNA exon editors represents an exciting evolution in treatment modalities, potentially allowing patients to manage their diseases with a single dose of intervention. In recognition of its cutting-edge initiatives, Ascidian has received accolades like the Endpoints 11 and Fierce 15 designations for 2024.

For more details about Ascidian Therapeutics and its pioneering work in RNA medicine, you can visit www.ascidian.com.