The Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult (CGT Catapult) is investing in Lir Therapeutics to enhance its AI-driven AAV capsid design platform, nAAVigator. This funding aims to facilitate biological validation and generate necessary data to attract pharmaceutical and biotech partnerships.
Lir Therapeutics has developed a unique AI-based system that creates and selects novel adeno-associated virus (AAV) capsids, which are crucial for delivering gene therapies. These capsids transport therapeutic materials into cells to modify genes, a method that has shown promise in treating various conditions, including those affecting the neuromuscular and central nervous systems, as well as emerging applications in cardiac and kidney diseases.
Established in the UK in 2024, Lir is focused on refining its nAAVigator platform to overcome existing challenges in AAV delivery, such as manufacturing difficulties and potential side effects. The investment will not only provide financial support but also expert guidance from CGT Catapult to ensure alignment with industry needs, thereby enhancing Lir’s capacity for bespoke AAV capsid development.
This collaboration is seen as a pivotal moment for Lir, with CEO Killian Hanlon emphasizing the urgency of advancing gene therapy solutions to address a wide array of diseases. Matthew Durdy, CEO of CGT Catapult, highlighted that Lir's innovative approach could significantly expedite the transition of research breakthroughs into practical treatments, reinforcing the investment's potential to drive commercialization in the life sciences sector.