Biotech Story Time With Tal Zaks, M.D. (Part 2, Tall Tales with Tal)
Jan 6, 2025
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Dr. Tal Zaks, CEO of Exsilio Therapeutics and former CMO at Moderna, shares insights on navigating the biotech landscape, including his transition from the COVID-19 crisis to launching his mRNA startup. He discusses the integration of cutting-edge gene therapy technologies and the challenges of moving from academic concepts to therapeutic applications. Zaks emphasizes the importance of public education on mRNA safety, the dual role of medicine in healing and wellness, and the future potential of AI in biotech innovation.
Curiosity is crucial for biotech innovation, driving funding by showcasing how research translates to tangible patient benefits.
The FDA's rigorous regulatory standards empower biotech firms to pursue innovative, high-risk projects with confidence in eventual market entry.
Deep dives
The Role of Curiosity in Biotech Innovation
Curiosity, rather than merely addressing unmet medical needs, is positioned as a significant driver of innovation in the biotech industry. Dr. Tal Zaks emphasizes the necessity to demonstrate a path to value when seeking funding based on curiosity-driven projects. Investors need to visualize how the curiosity-led research will translate into tangible benefits for patients, ensuring they understand the potential risks and rewards. By framing curiosity in terms of possible impacts on healthcare, companies can garner the investment needed to pursue innovative approaches.
The Unique US Regulatory Landscape
The regulatory environment in the United States, particularly the FDA's analytical rigor, is highlighted as a cornerstone for biotech firms. Dr. Zaks describes the FDA's approach of demanding data-backed arguments, allowing for a more nuanced review process compared to regulatory bodies in other countries. This sets a benchmark for global standards, as many international regulators look to FDA processes as models for approval. A strong regulatory foundation empowers companies to explore risky innovations with greater confidence in potential validation and market entry.
Advancements in mRNA Technology
The podcast discusses the transformative potential of mRNA technology, which has been accelerated by the precedents set during the COVID-19 vaccine development. Investors are increasingly interested in exploring next-generation applications of mRNA beyond vaccinations, particularly in areas like protein replacement and gene editing. Companies like Exilio are taking advantage of advancements in mRNA and lipid nanoparticle technologies to deliver repeated doses effectively, which could revolutionize therapeutic approaches. This paradigm shift from one-time gene therapies to more accessible and adjustable treatments promises to change the landscape of biotech innovation.
Bridging the Gap Between Science and Public Understanding
Effective communication and public education about mRNA medicines are deemed essential for the biotech industry's success. Dr. Zaks emphasizes the need for leaders in the field to articulate scientific concepts in layman's terms to cultivate understanding and trust. Initiatives, like Moderna's free course on mRNA medicines, are steps towards demystifying these technologies. The goal is to inform the public about the safety, efficacy, and potential of mRNA therapies, addressing misconceptions and fostering a positive perception of these advancements.
Dr. Tal Zaks is back, along with Advancing RNA's Anna Rose Welch, for part 2 of "Story Time With Tal." On this week's episode, we turn from his time navigating medical affairs as CMO at Moderna during the COVID 19 pandemic to learn about his latest venture, an mRNA startup called Exsilio Therapeutics. We cover the foundational aspects of the company's start, from the science it's developing, who's been recruited to the team, and how Exsilio charted its way to an $82 million Series A co-led by Novartis Venture Fund and Delos Capital, with participation from OrbiMed, Insight Partners, J.P. Morgan Life Sciences Private Capital, CRISPR Therapeutics, Innovation Endeavors, Invus, Arc Ventures, and Deep Insight.
Access this and hundreds of episodes of the Business of Biotech videocast under the Listen & Watch tab at bioprocessonline.com.