Inaphaea BioLabs’ collaboration partner Inspiralis is a leading biotech specialising in DNA modifying enzymes and their substrates. The company supports preclinical development of anti-infective and anti-cancer compounds, either through the supply of its high-quality products or through provision of contract research services in the form of drug screening and mode of action studies.
To find out more about the business, we interviewed Inspiralis CEO, Natassja Bush.
Tell us more about Inspiralis’ capabilities and why they are unique
Inspiralis specialises in DNA modifying enzymes. Initially, the company was focused on DNA topoisomerases, a class of enzymes essential for DNA replication and transcription. These enzymes are critical to cellular function and are found in nearly all living organisms. Due to their fundamental role, they are key targets for developing anti-cancer and anti-infective drugs.
The company officially formed in 2008 in response to growing demand for our enzymes, predominantly in the anti-infective space. Recognising there was a market for such products, the company then expanded into producing human enzymes as targets for anti-cancer drugs, as well as starting to offer screening and crystallography services.
We are proud to be one of just three companies in the world that supply these DNA modifying enzymes.
Where does Inspiralis fit in the drug discovery pipeline?
We work at the very early-stage of the drug discovery process. One of the most popular methods of carrying out drug discovery is through phenotypic screening, using a library of compounds to screen against a cell line and identify an effect, typically cell killing. Then it’s a case of finding out what that compound is targeting in the screen. Once this has been identified, further studies are carried out on the enzymes themselves, and this is where Inspiralis comes in.
We can work with organisations of all sizes including small and large pharma and very early research organisations and groups.
Why did you choose to partner with Inaphaea BioLabs and how do you work together?
I was drawn to Inaphaea as I think patient-derived cell lines have a valuable role to play in the drug discovery process. As we do not have the in-house expertise in this area, nor the space, it made sense for us to join forces with Inaphaea to provide our customers with access to its cell lines. As most of our screening customers are interested in anti-cancer compounds, working with Inaphaea just made sense.
In addition, as a relatively small company, working with Inaphaea enables us to present a clear drug discovery pipeline to potential customers.
Finally, what are your views on the current state of the drug discovery market and what developments are you most excited about?
I am excited about the rise of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), particularly as there has been a real resurgence of interest in topoisomerase I inhibitors. A lot of those compounds are typically very toxic, so to be able to find a way of directing that toxicity to those cancer cells is really significant.
In terms of the drug discovery market more generally, the focus on new drug modalities and innovative ways of doing things is really promising, as well as the continued interest in small molecules.
Find out more about Inspiralis here.