Curi Bio, a pioneer in human stem cell-based platforms for drug discovery, has secured significant funding through two Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grants from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) totaling $4.4 million.
These grants are aimed at advancing Curi Bio’s innovative work in implementing human models for drug discovery, with a focus on bridging the gap between animal and human data, as well as developing disease models and potency assays for pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.
The first project involves expanding Curi Bio’s in vitro human muscle platform by developing engineered mouse model tissues (EMTs). This initiative aims to address inconsistencies between animal and human data and further refine Curi Bio’s 3D Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) model.
Additionally, the project will include the development of 3D engineered heart tissue models based on an industry-standard DMD mouse model, facilitating research alignment with the 3Rs principle of reducing, refining, and replacing animals in preclinical studies.
The second project, in partnership with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), focuses on animal-free potency assays for drug manufacturing. Curi Bio will develop a novel neuromuscular junction model from human stem cells to measure the effect of Botulinum neurotoxin (Botox), addressing the need for accurate methods to assess toxin potency while adhering to the 3Rs principle.
Dr. Nicholas Geisse, CEO of Curi Bio, expressed gratitude for the NIH recognition and emphasized the significance of these awards in advancing preclinical research and developing essential potency assays for future medicines.
The grants will provide Curi Bio with the resources needed to propel its research in Duchenne muscular dystrophy and Botox potency screening assays, contributing to the company’s mission of accelerating the development of new therapeutics.
The two projects demonstrate Curi Bio’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology and human models to enhance drug discovery processes, while aligning with ethical and efficient research practices.
