Araris Biotech utilizes a proprietary peptide linker technology for site-specific attachment of drug payloads to off-the-shelf antibodies, enhancing the stability and solubility of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). This approach addresses the issues of poor stability and high heterogeneity in current ADC technologies, enabling consistent and effective delivery of potent anti-cancer therapies directly to tumor cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
Funding
$43.5M raised to dateRaised to date based on public sources. This may differ from the amount the company actually raised and is based only on what is publicly available on the internet.
Founders
Product
Problem
Current antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) technologies suffer from issues such as poor stability, high heterogeneity due to non-specific drug attachment, limited linker solubility leading to aggregation, and complex, resource-intensive manufacturing processes. These limitations can result in reduced efficacy, increased risk of side effects, and high development costs.
Solution
Araris Biotech has developed a proprietary peptide linker technology, AraLinQ™, that enables site-specific payload attachment to off-the-shelf antibodies, creating homogenous, stable, and highly soluble ADCs. The technology utilizes a privileged attachment site on a specific amino acid within the IgG-Fc framework, ensuring the antibody maintains its original performance characteristics. The linker-payload is connected via a strong peptide bond, providing exceptional stability in the bloodstream and minimizing off-target toxicity. Once internalized into a cancer cell, the linker is designed for efficient payload release, maximizing ADC efficacy.
Target Audience
Araris Biotech's technology targets pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies developing novel cancer therapies, particularly those focused on antibody-drug conjugates.
Features
- Site-specific payload attachment to a defined location (Q295) on the antibody Fc region using transglutaminase
- One-step ADC generation from native or engineered "off-the-shelf" antibodies, eliminating the need for custom antibody synthesis or re-engineering
- Highly stable peptide linker designed to prevent premature drug release in circulation
- Hydrophilic linkers that enhance ADC solubility and reduce aggregation
- Preserved antibody pharmacokinetics and effector functions post-conjugation
- Scalable and cost-effective manufacturing process
- Broad applicability to diverse antibody and payload combinations