Ep158: David Younger and Randolph Lopez on SynBio & AI for Discovery
May 20, 2024
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David Younger and Randolph Lopez, co-founders of A-Alpha Bio, discuss using synthetic biology and AI for drug discovery. They explore yeast as a platform, business representation challenges, and innovative approaches to developing antibodies. The podcast dives into how AI revolutionizes drug discovery and optimization, impacting human health through unique biological understanding.
A-Alpha Bio utilizes synthetic biology and AI for drug discovery focusing on protein-protein interactions.
Their data-driven platform with AI integration revolutionizes drug development workflows.
Collaboration with industry giants and a vast data set propels advancements in drug discovery.
Deep dives
A.A.L. Fabio's Innovative Approach to Protein-Protein Interactions
A.A.L. Fabio, a Seattle-based company, specializes in high-volume synthetic biology to analyze protein-protein interactions using machine learning. Their sin-bio and AI technologies help identify drug candidates with specific optimal characteristics, like high-affinity binding to particular epitopes. Collaborating with industry giants like Gilead Sciences, Amgen, and Bristol Myers-Squibb, they work on developing molecular glue therapies.
Founders' Science Roots and Meeting at the University of Washington
The co-founders, David Younger and Randolph Lopez, have diverse scientific backgrounds intersecting at the University of Washington. David's interest in futuristic technologies grew from family medical backgrounds, while Randolph's passion for science and technology led him from Caracas, Venezuela, to studying bioengineering at UC San Diego.
Evolution from Academic Project to Commercialization
Initiating as an academic project at the University of Washington, A.A.L. Fabio transitioned towards commercialization due to clear utility potential and partnership with the university's commercialization center. Their data-driven platform, emerging AI integration, and large-scale protein interaction measurements are propelling advancements in drug discovery.
Impact of Protein Interaction Data on Drug Discovery
With over 750 million measured protein-protein interactions, A.A.L. Fabio's comprehensive data set is a game-changer in drug discovery. The platform's unique ability to predict and accelerate drug development, particularly in immunocytokines and molecular glues, offers more cost-effective and efficient solutions.
Future Vision: Revolutionizing Drug Development with AI Integration
A.A.L. Fabio envisions reshaping drug development workflows by leveraging AI for enhanced predictive models. Their goal is not only to advance individual drug candidates but also to transform the industry's approach to discovering and optimizing drugs, aiming for faster, cost-effective, and higher success rate processes.