Our Science: Overview
Our targeted, non-viral 3DNA delivery platform is in a class of its own and poised to transform the field of genetic medicine
The unique features of our proprietary 3DNA platform enable precise delivery of genetic medicines, RNAi and other modalities.
Multivalency
3DNA is a multivalent structure to which targeting molecules and nucleic acid based therapeutics can be attached. This property enables rapid optimization of both binding avidity and therapeutic potency and modularity, with high specificity of targeting. Ultimately, 3DNA expands options for delivering multiple modalities.
Unparalleled Cell Targeting Specificity
3DNA leverages targeting molecules (such as peptides, antibodies, and small molecules) which bind to cell surface proteins expressed on the target cells, enabling high tissue specificity outside the liver with improved bioavailability. After binding to the target cell the 3DNA is internalized into the cell via a receptor-mediated process. By exploiting and withstanding the endocytotic process, the 3DNA delivers its genetic payload into the cytoplasm. When utilized to deliver gene therapy, the gene construct then localizes to the cell nucleus where a tissue specific promoter drives the expression of the desired protein. This unparalled tissue & cell targeting specificity eliminates the need for high doses and minimizes both dose related toxicity and off-target effects.
Re-dosability
3DNA has been designed to eliminate sequence specific elements from its scaffold that would otherwise trigger immune responses such as those initiated by toll-like receptors (TLR’s). Extensive preclinical data from repeat dosing studies in multiple species have shown the 3DNA scaffold itself does not generate neutralizing antibodies. This may allow for the ability to re-dose genetic medicines.
Modular and Robust Manufacturing
Manufacturing of 3DNA is simple, reproducible, and scalable. 3DNA can be made in bulk, stored, and used in a modular process for formulating genetic medicines. Generating a final genetic medicine is a relatively straightforward process of taking the “off the shelf” 3DNA and attaching the relevant targeting molecules and the relevant nucleic acid based therapeutics.
Delivery of Complex Gene Constructs
3DNA is capable of efficient delivery of genetic medicines to cells, eliminating the size constraints imposed by a number of viral vector technologies. 3DNA has demonstrated the ability to deliver genes approaching 10kb, and we have yet to reach the upper limit for gene size that can be delivered. This means that we may be able to treat diseases that are currently untreatable.