Ep153: Rick Young on Studying Gene Expression for Drug Discovery
Jan 22, 2024
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Rick Young, a professor at MIT and co-founder of several pharmaceutical companies, discusses studying gene expression for drug discovery. Topics include his journey through academic institutions, the value of diverse talents in success, innovative approaches in cancer treatment, and revolutionizing cell biology with biomolecular condensates.
Rick Young's research on gene expression has led to the formation of innovative companies targeting drug discovery.
Young's discovery of biomolecular condensates has revolutionized cell biology and implications for targeted therapeutic interventions.
Deep dives
Richard A. Young: Pioneering Gene Expression Research
Richard A. Young, a biology professor at MIT and core member of the Whitehead Institute, discusses his research journey dedicated to studying gene expression. His work has attracted scientific entrepreneurs and venture capitalists, leading to the formation and guidance of innovative companies like Seros Pharmaceuticals, Camp Four Therapeutics, Omega Therapeutics, and Dew Point Therapeutics.
From High School Curiosity to Genetics Enthusiasm
Young's interest in genetics sparked in high school, influenced by his fascination with genetic traits while attempting to play the guitar like Jimi Hendrix. His journey from studying bacteria phage genetics to yeast and more intricate model organisms at Yale and Stanford laid the foundation for his in-depth exploration of gene regulation and expression.
Translating Basic Biology to Therapeutic Innovations
Young's dedication to understanding gene control and infectious diseases led to impactful collaborations with organizations like the World Health Organization. His involvement in pioneering research on super enhancers and enhancer RNAs paved the way for companies like Seros, Camp Four, Omega, and Dew Point to develop novel therapeutic approaches targeting gene expression to combat diseases like acute myeloid leukemia and solid tumors.
Revolutionizing Cell Biology with Biomolecular Condensates
Young's groundbreaking work on biomolecular condensates revolutionized cell biology by revealing how polymers of DNA, RNA, and proteins naturally self-associate to compartmentalize cellular functions without membranes. This discovery has profound implications for drug discovery, enabling a deeper understanding of disease mechanisms and more targeted therapeutic interventions across various domains of biology and healthcare.
Rick Young, professor at MIT and co-founder of Syros Pharmaceuticals, CAMP4 Therapeutics, Omega Therapeutics, and Dewpoint Therapeutics, on studying gene expression for drug discovery.
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