Boehringer Ingelheim to use ExpressionEdits’ Genetix Syntax Engine for two gene therapy targets

ExpressionEdits, which has developed a novel approach to enhance therapeutic gene expression by restoring introns, has announced a collaboration and licensing agreement with Boehringer Ingelheim.

The company, which is based at the Minerva Building on Babraham Research Campus, was founded in 2021 by Dr Kärt Tomberg, Prof Allan Bradley and Dr Liliana Antunes. It has developed the Genetic Syntax Engine, a proprietary AI-powered platform that uses optimised introns to enhance gene expression without altering the underlying genetic sequence.

An intron is a non-coding section of DNA or RNA within a gene that is removed during protein synthesis. ExpressionEdits is using introns – which had generally been derided as of no value – to enhance gene expression to create therapeutics and improve gene therapies.

Gene therapies are often limited by low effectiveness due to insufficient expression of the therapeutic protein, leading to the need for high viral loads or repeated dosing. ExpressionEdits has developed a novel approach to enhance therapeutic gene expression by restoring introns, called “intronisation”.

Under the agreement, Boehringer will leverage ExpressionEdits’ Genetic Syntax Engine for two gene therapy targets.

“By combining our technology platform with Boehringer Ingelheim’s expertise in therapeutic development we aim to accelerate the development of high-impact gene therapies. ExpressionEdits is essentially reintroducing punctuation into the genome’s language, creating clearer and more accurate instructions for protein production,” said Dr Paul Bolno, chair, ExpressionEdits.

“We’re thrilled to announce our partnership with Boehringer Ingelheim,” said Dr Kärt Tomberg, CEO and co-founder, ExpressionEdits. “Joining forces with the scientists at Boehringer Ingelheim will enable us to advance first-in-class gene therapies for patients with high medical need.”