FYI - For Your Innovation Curing Hair Loss With Sean McClain
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Nov 13, 2025 In this discussion, Sean McClain, Founder and CEO of AbSci, reveals his groundbreaking work in AI-driven drug design. He shares insights into the BS201 antibody for hair regrowth, explaining its unique ability to reactivate follicles while significantly lowering development costs. The conversation also touches on how AI is revolutionizing the identification of previously elusive targets in drug discovery, and the implications for regenerative medicine and longevity therapies. McClain envisions a future where AI replaces animal testing, transforming biotech.
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AI Unlocks Undruggable Biology
- AbSci uses generative AI to design antibodies that can target previously "undruggable" biology like deep viral crevices and ion channels.
- This approach opens new targets and accelerates solutions beyond traditional discovery methods.
Rapid Path From Concept To Phase 2
- AbSci's ABS-201 (prolactin receptor antibody) moved from concept to a Phase 2 readout in about 3.5 years after starting the program 2–2.5 years earlier.
- They advanced to this milestone with roughly $15 million of investment, far below typical industry preclinical costs.
Precision Keys Reduce Dose And Toxicity
- AI-designed antibodies can be engineered as precise "keys" to specific biological "locks," improving potency and reducing off-target effects.
- Precision design can lower dosing frequency and potential toxicity while improving manufacturability and commercial viability.