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Showing posts with label RNA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label RNA. Show all posts

Monday, September 23, 2024

IN treating Cancerous tumors, TransCode's technology is designed to target dysregulated microRNAs implicated in cancer progression, metastasis, and resistance to existing therapies.

 


Investor Report: TransCode Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ: RNAZ)

Introduction

TransCode Therapeutics Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company specializing in RNA-targeted therapeutics for the treatment of cancer and other serious diseases. Leveraging its proprietary platform technology, TransCode aims to overcome historical challenges associated with RNA delivery, offering innovative solutions that could transform the oncology landscape.


Technology Advantage

Proprietary Delivery Platform: TTX

TransCode's principal technological advantage lies in its proprietary delivery platform known as TTX (TransCode Therapeutics Technology). This platform is engineered to enable the systemic delivery of RNA-based therapeutics directly to tumor sites, addressing significant hurdles in RNA therapy such as stability, specificity, and efficient cellular uptake.

Key Advantages:

  • Targeted Delivery: TTX facilitates precise delivery of therapeutic agents to tumor cells, minimizing off-target effects and enhancing efficacy.
  • Versatility: The platform is adaptable to various RNA modalities, including microRNA (miRNA), small interfering RNA (siRNA), antisense oligonucleotides, and messenger RNA (mRNA).
  • Non-Immunogenic Profile: Designed to reduce immune system activation, thereby increasing the safety profile of the therapeutics.
  • Overcoming Delivery Barriers: Addresses challenges like nuclease degradation and poor cellular uptake that have historically limited the effectiveness of RNA therapeutics.

Technology Purpose and Pipeline

Focus on MicroRNA in Cancer Treatment

TransCode's technology is designed to target dysregulated microRNAs implicated in cancer progression, metastasis, and resistance to existing therapies.

Lead Candidate: TTX-MC138

  • Mechanism of Action: TTX-MC138 targets microRNA-10b, a master regulator of metastatic cell viability in solid tumors.
  • Clinical Development: (Completed positive Phase I) clinical trial, aiming to demonstrate safety and preliminary efficacy in patients with advanced solid tumors.
  • (Received Government grant of $2,000,000 to fast track phase 2)

Pipeline Expansion

The company is also exploring additional candidates targeting other microRNAs and RNA targets associated with various cancer types, intending to build a robust oncology portfolio.


Competitors

TransCode operates in a competitive field with several companies focusing on RNA-based therapeutics:

  • Alnylam Pharmaceuticals: A leader in RNA interference (RNAi) therapeutics, though primarily focused on genetic disorders.
  • Ionis Pharmaceuticals: Specializes in antisense oligonucleotide therapies across multiple indications, including oncology.
  • Moderna Inc.: Utilizes mRNA technology for vaccines and therapeutics, including potential cancer treatments.
  • Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals: Develops RNAi-based therapies, with some oncology programs in its pipeline.
  • Viridian Therapeutics (formerly miRagen Therapeutics): Focused on microRNA-targeted therapies, though with a current emphasis outside oncology. 


Partners and Potential Clients

Current Partnerships

While specific partnerships may not be publicly disclosed, TransCode is likely collaborating with:

  • Academic Institutions: For preclinical research and clinical trial collaborations.
  • Clinical Research Organizations (CROs): To support the execution of clinical studies.

Potential Partners and Clients

  • Pharmaceutical Companies: Interested in licensing opportunities or co-development of RNA therapeutics.
  • Biotechnology Firms: For synergistic collaborations leveraging complementary technologies.
  • Healthcare Providers and Cancer Centers: As sites for clinical trials and eventual adoption of approved therapies.

Financials

Stock Information

  • Ticker Symbol: RNAZ
  • Exchange: NASDAQ

Financial Highlights (as of latest available data up to October 2023)

  • Market Capitalization: Subject to market fluctuations; investors should refer to current financial platforms for the latest figures.
  • Revenue: Limited or no revenue from product sales due to the clinical-stage status.
  • Research and Development Expenses: Significant investment in R&D reflecting the advancement of the pipeline.
  • Cash Position: Adequate cash reserves are crucial for funding ongoing and future clinical trials.
  • Recent Financing Activities: May include public offerings, private placements, or grant funding to extend the operational runway.

Prospects

Growth Opportunities

  • Advancement of Clinical Programs: Successful progression of TTX-MC138 through clinical trials could significantly enhance company value.
  • Pipeline Diversification: Expansion into other microRNA targets and cancer indications broadens market potential.
  • Technological Licensing: Opportunity to out-license the TTX platform to other biotech or pharmaceutical companies.

Market Potential

  • Addressing Unmet Needs: Targeting metastatic cancers with limited treatment options positions TransCode to fulfill critical medical needs.
  • Global Oncology Market: The growing demand for effective cancer therapies presents substantial commercial opportunities.

Risks and Considerations

  • Clinical and Regulatory Risks: The success of product candidates is contingent upon favorable clinical trial outcomes and regulatory approvals.
  • Financial Sustainability: Ongoing capital requirements may necessitate additional financing, potentially leading to dilution.
  • Competitive Landscape: Rapid advancements by competitors could impact market share and adoption.

Conclusion

Increased Attractiveness to Potential Acquirers

De-risked Clinical Asset

  • Validation of Technology: Successful Phase 1 trials demonstrate that TTX-MC138 is safe and potentially effective in humans, reducing the clinical risk associated with the asset.
  • Enhanced Value Proposition: A de-risked asset is more appealing to larger pharmaceutical companies seeking to bolster their pipelines with promising candidates that have cleared early-stage hurdles.

Accelerated Development Timeline

  • Government Support: The $2 million grant not only provides non-dilutive funding but also signals government endorsement of the technology, which can be attractive to acquirers.
  • Fast-Track Potential: Accelerated Phase 2 trials can shorten the time to market, offering a quicker return on investment for potential buyers.

Strategic Alignment

  • Expanding Oncology Portfolio: Companies looking to enhance their oncology offerings might find TTX-MC138's novel approach to targeting microRNA-10b appealing.
  • RNA Therapeutics Interest: With growing interest in RNA-based therapies, acquiring TransCode could provide immediate entry into this innovative field.

Market Dynamics Favoring Acquisition

Competitive Advantage

  • First-Mover Status: TransCode's advancements could position it ahead of competitors in the microRNA-targeting space.
  • Intellectual Property: Ownership of proprietary technology and patents can create barriers to entry for others, increasing the company's strategic value.

Industry Consolidation Trends

  • Biotech Mergers and Acquisitions: The biotech sector frequently experiences consolidation, with larger firms acquiring smaller companies to access new technologies and candidates.
  • Pipeline Augmentation: Acquisitions are a common strategy for big pharma to replenish their pipelines, especially as patents on existing drugs expire.

Financial Considerations

Improved Financial Position

  • Non-Dilutive Funding: The government grant enhances the company's cash position without affecting shareholder equity.
  • Resource Allocation: Additional funds allow for more aggressive development and potentially better trial results, increasing the company's valuation.

Investor Sentiment

  • Stock Performance: Positive clinical results and funding news often lead to stock appreciation, which can impact acquisition negotiations.
  • Market Visibility: Success attracts attention from analysts and investors, raising the company's profile in the industry.

Potential Impact on Takeover Likelihood

Negotiation Leverage

  • Stronger Bargaining Position: Positive developments give TransCode more leverage in discussions, possibly leading to better acquisition terms.
  • Interest from Multiple Suitors: Success may attract several potential acquirers, creating a competitive bidding environment.

Risk Mitigation for Acquirers

  • Reduced Uncertainty: Advancements in clinical trials lower the risk for acquirers concerned about the viability of the drug candidate.
  • Synergy Realization: An acquisition could allow for resource pooling, accelerating development and commercialization.

Considerations and Risks

Regulatory Hurdles Remain

  • Phase 2 and Beyond: While Phase 1 success is promising, subsequent trials must also demonstrate efficacy and safety.
  • Approval Timelines: Regulatory approval processes can be lengthy and uncertain, which may affect acquisition timing.

Valuation Challenges

  • Increased Valuation: While a higher valuation is positive, it may also make potential acquirers cautious due to the higher acquisition cost.
  • Due Diligence Findings: Acquirers will conduct thorough evaluations, and any unforeseen issues could impact their interest.

Company's Strategic Goals

  • Desire for Independence: TransCode's management may prefer to continue independently to fully realize the company's potential.
  • Shareholder Expectations: Shareholders might expect higher returns, influencing the acceptance of any takeover offers.

Conclusion

The successful Phase 1 trial results for TTX-MC138 and the government grant to expedite Phase 2 development enhance TransCode Therapeutics' profile in the biotech industry. These achievements:

  • Increase the company's visibility and attractiveness to larger pharmaceutical firms seeking innovative oncology assets.
  • Strengthen TransCode's negotiating position by demonstrating clinical success and securing non-dilutive funding.
  • Potentially accelerate acquisition interest, especially from companies aiming to expand into RNA-based therapies or bolster their cancer treatment pipelines.

While these factors could increase the chances of a takeover, it's important to recognize that acquisitions depend on a complex interplay of strategic fit, financial considerations, and market conditions. There is no guarantee that these developments will lead to a takeover, but they certainly position TransCode more favorably in the eyes of potential acquirers.


Disclaimer: This analysis is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice or a recommendation to buy or sell any securities. Investing in biotechnology companies involves significant risks, including the potential loss of investment. Always conduct thorough research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. Therapeutics Inc. offers a compelling proposition in the field of RNA-based cancer therapeutics. Its innovative TTX platform addresses key challenges in RNA delivery, potentially unlocking new treatment modalities for hard-to-treat cancers. While the company operates in a high-risk, high-reward segment typical of clinical-stage biotechs, its technology and strategic focus present significant upside potential for investors willing to navigate the inherent uncertainties.


Note: Investors are encouraged to review the most recent financial statements, press releases, and consult financial advisors for the latest information and personalized investment advice.

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These "Microcap" companies operate in innovative and emerging sectors, which may position them for significant growth.

Tuesday, June 18, 2024

Acquisitions in Biotech and SynBio stocks are on the horizon again and here is one that we believe may be in the crosshairs!

 Ginkgo Bioworks operates several advanced biotechnology platforms and technologies that would be particularly attractive to an acquiring company. These include:

  1. Foundry and Codebase:

    • Automated Foundry: Ginkgo's high-throughput, automated biological foundry integrates robotics, advanced software, and cutting-edge biotechnology to design, build, and test organisms at scale. This foundry enables rapid prototyping and optimization of microorganisms for various applications, significantly reducing the time and cost associated with developing new biological products.
    • Codebase: Ginkgo has built a massive repository of biological knowledge, including genetic sequences, metabolic pathways, and optimized strains. This codebase is continually expanded and leveraged to improve the efficiency and success rate of genetic engineering projects.
  2. Cell Programming and Synthetic Biology:

    • Genetic Engineering: Ginkgo specializes in engineering microorganisms (such as bacteria, yeast, and fungi) to produce a wide array of products, including pharmaceuticals, biofuels, chemicals, and food ingredients. Their expertise in gene editing, metabolic engineering, and strain optimization is a core technology.
    • Synthetic Biology Tools: Ginkgo utilizes advanced synthetic biology tools, including CRISPR, gene synthesis, and genome-scale engineering, to design and construct complex genetic circuits and pathways.
  3. Biomanufacturing Capabilities:

    • Scale-Up Expertise: Ginkgo's ability to scale up engineered microorganisms from lab-scale to industrial-scale production is a significant asset. Their biomanufacturing capabilities include fermentation technology, downstream processing, and production optimization.
    • Partnerships and Collaboration: Ginkgo has a track record of successful partnerships with companies across various industries, including pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and consumer goods. Their collaborative approach and ability to integrate their technologies with partners’ processes enhance their attractiveness to potential acquirers.
  4. Data and Software Infrastructure:

    • Data Analytics and Machine Learning: Ginkgo uses sophisticated data analytics and machine learning algorithms to analyze vast amounts of biological data, identify patterns, and predict successful genetic modifications. This data-driven approach accelerates the discovery and optimization of new biological products.
    • Bioinformatics and Computational Biology: Their software infrastructure supports advanced bioinformatics and computational biology, enabling the design, simulation, and optimization of genetic constructs and metabolic pathways.
  5. Platform Applications:

    • Pharmaceuticals and Therapeutics: Ginkgo's platform can be used to develop new therapeutics, including biologics, vaccines, and gene therapies. Their ability to engineer microorganisms for drug production and discovery is particularly valuable.
    • Agriculture and Food: Ginkgo's technologies are applied to create sustainable agricultural products, such as engineered microbes for crop enhancement, pest control, and soil health. Additionally, they develop fermentation-based food ingredients and alternative proteins.
    • Environmental and Industrial Applications: Ginkgo engineers microbes for environmental applications, such as bioremediation and waste treatment, as well as for the production of industrial chemicals and biofuels.

An acquiring company would likely be interested in Ginkgo Bioworks for its comprehensive suite of technologies that enable rapid and cost-effective development of biological solutions, its extensive biological codebase, its robust biomanufacturing capabilities, and its innovative use of data analytics and machine learning in synthetic biology.

In Bio Science, there is a race for better Gene sequencing and genomics technology!

Consolidation in the BioTech realm is a given going forward. Ginkgo Bioworks technology looks attractive to larger companies in the space!



Update June 25th



Tuesday, May 28, 2024

Ginkgo Bioworks has been bolstering its position as a first mover in Synthetic Biology!

 Here are the companies they’ve acquired and the reasons behind each acquisition:

  1. Proof Diagnostics:

    -  Ginkgo Bioworks acquired Proof Diagnostics, a Cambridge-based CRISPR test developer co-founded by Feng Zhang (an early discoverer of Crispr technology) of the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard. 
  2. Proof Diagnostics has been working on a “future-proof” COVID-19 screener with a rapid tabletop analyzer capable of detecting not only COVID-19 but also the flu, respiratory syncytial virus, and other diseases using gene-editing technology. 
  3. Ginkgo was mainly attracted to Proof Diagnostics for its intellectual property and libraries of RNA-programmable, non-Cas enzymes called OMEGAs. These emerging OMEGAs offer potential upgrades over current genomic medicine tools, making them easier to deliver into cells. Ginkgo plans to use these enzymes to support its gene therapy services, providing an alternative approach to gene editing.
  4. Patch Biosciences: - Ginkgo acquired Patch Biosciences, a New York-based AI platform developer focused on computer-designed cargos for genetic medicines. By integrating Patch’s capabilities, libraries, and datasets, Ginkgo aims to enhance its existing genetic medicine toolkit. 

    The machine-learning models and downstream assays from Patch Biosciences will contribute to Ginkgo’s offerings.
  5. Reverie Labs:

     - Ginkgo also acquired Reverie Labs, an AI-powered drug discovery company. Reverie Labs specializes in developing biology-focused foundation models and small molecule design. Four members of Reverie’s AI team, including Chief Technology Officer Ankit Gupta, have joined Ginkgo. 

    This acquisition will accelerate Ginkgo’s work in drug discovery and strengthen its expertise in biological engineering approaches.


Additionally, it’s worth noting that Ginkgo Bioworks made its largest acquisition to date by acquiring it's competitor, Zymergen, which is expected to significantly enhance Ginkgo’s platform by integrating strong automation and software capabilities

These acquisitions demonstrate Ginkgo’s commitment to advancing synthetic biology and expanding its capabilities in molecular medicine and AI-driven research



 Ginkgo Bioworks is an American biotech company founded in 2008 by five scientists from MIT, led by Jason Kelly. 

Their specialty lies in using genetic engineering to produce bacteria with industrial applications for other biotech companies. 

Essentially, they create custom-designed microorganisms that can be used in various fields, from agriculture to pharmaceuticals.



Ginkgo Bioworks Holdings (NYSE: DNA) is owned by 57.35% institutional shareholders, 13.56% by insiders, and 29.08% retail investors.

Article:

KEY POINTS from this article:


  • 1.   The biofoundry's platform is scaling up, "big time" and customers are flocking.
  • 2.
  •        

    Powerful collaborators are signing up

    It's working with MerckModernaEli Lilly, and many others in biopharma and agriculture.

  • Ginkgo's valuation is attractive, and trading as a penny stock at all time lows!

Disclosure: we own stock in Ginkgo Bioworks ($DNA) and are accumulating!

Analysts high on Ginkgo and it's platform.

StockScan estimates an average price of $6.06 for Ginkgo Bioworks in 2025, with predictions ranging from a low of $4.78 to a high of $7.34​ (Stock Screener, Chart, and Price) This indicates a potential rise of approximately 980.45% from the last recorded price. While Ginkgo faces challenges, its long-term opportunities in #CellProgramming and #Biosecurity could drive significant growth. Keep in mind that investing involves risks, and it’s essential to conduct thorough research before making any investment decisions


Saturday, May 11, 2024

The Human body is highly "Adaptive" in fighting desease, and these two companies are developing technology right now to help that system fight Cancer!

 Let’s compare Adaptive BioTechnologies and Agenus Inc. in terms of how they utilize the adaptive immune system to combat cancer:

  1. Adaptive BioTechnologies:

  2. Agenus Inc.:


In summary, both companies leverage the adaptive immune system through innovative approaches to combat cancer, with Adaptive BioTechnologies focusing on immunosequencing and Agenus developing next-generation antibodies like botensilimab. 


Keep in mind that their specific strategies may vary based on their respective pipelines and collaborations.


These two small cap companies can be found on the Nasdaq under the symbols


$ADPT - $AGEN


From the "American College of Surgeons" report!



Wednesday, May 1, 2024

Ginkgo Bioworks is building out their BioManufacturing Foundry platform which mimics the building of semiconductor foundries of yester year!

 78.63% of #GinkgoBioworks ( $DNA) stock is owned by #Institutional #investors.

Here are some of the major institutional shareholders:

ARK Investment Management LLC owns a significant number of shares in Ginkgo Bioworks Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: DNA). As of the most recent filings, they held 182,192,185 shares during the 3rd quarter of 2023. 
Equitec Proprietary Markets LLC: Holds 672,488 shares (0.5% of the portfolio). Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Holdings Inc.: Holds 55,865,048 shares (2.595% of the portfolio).
(Note: M. Potter who served as President, Chief Executive Officer, and Chair of the board of Sumitomo Pharma America, and as the Chief Executive Officer of Sumitovant Biopharma, the parent company of five biotechnology companies, was added to the board of Ginkgo BioWorks on April 29th) Salem Investment Counselors Inc.: Holds 4,758,585 shares (0.221% of the portfolio). Vanguard Group Inc.: Holds 132,780,095 shares (6.169% of the portfolio). Lingotto Investment Management LLP: Holds 8,511,301 shares (0.402% of the portfolio). Additionally, during the previous two years, a total of 228 institutional investors and hedge funds held shares of Ginkgo Bioworks.
Some of the most heavily invested institutions include Baillie Gifford & Co., ARK Investment Management LLC, and Nikko Asset Management Americas Inc.. Institutional investors play a significant role in Ginkgo Bioworks’ ownership structure, with a mix of large investment firms and hedge funds holding substantial stakes in the company

Founded in 2008 by five #Scientists from #MIT, Ginkgo Bioworks is headquartered in #Boston. Their mission is to use #Biology to grow better products across diverse markets. They have developed a cell programming platform that enables the growth of biotechnology. Ginkgo’s platform allows for programming cells and designing organisms that behave in pre-defined ways. They work with various industries, from food to fragrance to pharmaceuticals. - - - - - - -
#Ginkgo collaborates with various organizations and companies like:
Pfizer
Pfizer has entered into a multi-target RNA discovery collaboration with Ginkgo Bioworks, cell engineering.
Ginkgo also collaborates with these partners:

#Motif #FoodWorks: Changing the future of #food. #Bayer: Designing #probiotics for plants. #Allonnia: Enabling bioremediation solutions. #Aldevron: Supporting the #Vaccine #SupplyChain. #Cronos Group: Unlocking potential in #Cannabinoids. #Synlogic: Engineering living #Medicines. #Moderna: Optimizing vaccine processes. #IARPA: Protecting valuable technology. #Robertet: Producing cultured ingredients. And more

  • Keep in mind the companies that collaborate with Ginkgo Bioworks to advance synthetic biology:

    1. OneOne Biosciences

      , a French biotech startup, is developing a comprehensive suite of agricultural microbial solutions. They have partnered with Ginkgo Bioworks to leverage their robust ag biologicals infrastructure, biotechnological expertise, and Strain Optimization Services. The collaboration aims to accelerate OneOne’s research and product development in agricultural microbial solutions, including a novel solution for production and delivery of ag microbials through the OneOne Multiplier™1.
    2. Synlogic: collaborates with Ginkgo Bioworks to develop a pipeline of novel “living” medicines based on engineered probiotics. They utilize Ginkgo’s cell programming platform to create innovative treatments.

    3. Biogen:

       and Ginkgo Bioworks have announced a gene therapy collaboration. Their goal is to redefine the industry standard for manufacturing recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based vectors3.

    4. Pfizer: Ginkgo Bioworks has a collaboration with Pfizer to advance the discovery and development of novel RNA molecules across priority research areas using Ginkgo’s proprietary RNA technology4.


    Ginkgo has also acquired competitors like Zymergen etc, and have a serious "first mover" advantage in the field as they continue to build a "moat" around their business that few if any, will be able to copykey points:
    1. Sustainability: Ginkgo’s platform enables leading pharmaceutical, food, and agriculture companies to develop more sustainable solutions. As the world increasingly looks to synthetic biology for emissions reduction and supply chain resilience, Ginkgo’s role becomes more critical.

    2. Biosecurity:

      Ginkgo’s biosecurity business unit, Concentric, is working on building infrastructure to monitor biological threats. They collaborate with organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to enhance pathogen monitoring and develop tools to prevent misuse of engineered biology.

    3. Employee Ownership and Care: Ginkgo is committed to thoughtful deployment of its platform. They’ve established a Caring Committee to assess potential impacts of their activities and integrate a Cost, Caring, and Risk Assessment (CCRA) process

    4. How to invest in Robots and Robotics going forward, through the back door method!