LEXINGTON, Ky.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Demeetra, a gene editing technologies company, is proud to announce that its research in collaboration with Variation Biosciences, Inc. “VBI” has been selected for an oral presentation at the prestigious European Society for Animal Cell Technology (ESACT) 2024 conference from June 23-26 in Ediburgh, Scotland. The presentation, titled "Complementary Gene Editing Technologies Enhance Rapid Generation of Stable Cell Lines Producing Enveloped Viral-Like Particles," showcases Demeetra’s expertise in gene editing application in producing hard-to-manufacture enveloped viral-like particles (eVLPs). The work is funded by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) focusing on accelerating the development of vaccines and other biologic countermeasures against epidemic and pandemic threats.
Innovative Approaches to Gene Editing
The research highlights the synergy between two powerful gene editing technologies: transposases and Cas-CLOVER targeted nuclease systems. This combination facilitates rapid development of stable cell lines capable of expressing therapeutic candidates, in this case applied to novel coronavirus vaccines. As new SARS-CoV-2 variants emerge, the ability to quickly produce effective vaccines becomes increasingly critical.
Scientific Excellence and Advanced Capabilities
“At Demeetra, we are dedicated to helping our clients implement gene editing by combining cutting-edge technologies with guided expertise and detailed know-how transfer,” said Jack Crawford, CEO of Demeetra. “Our selection for an oral presentation at ESACT 2024 highlights the success of our approach.”
Optimized Protocols and Knowledge Transfer
Demeetra operates state-of-the-art internal laboratories where its expert scientists develop optimized gene editing protocols for cell lines, plants, and microbial systems. These protocols are then transferred to clients, ensuring they benefit from Demeetra’s extensive know-how. This integrated approach not only accelerates the development of stable cell lines but also enhances the overall success of any gene editing project across species.
Impact and Future Applications
The presented research demonstrates how transposases can be used to identify novel genomic sites for consistent and stable expression of eVLPs and spike proteins. Using an internally optimized Splinkerette PCR protocol, these sites were mapped in the host cell line. Cas-CLOVER was then used in unedited cells to precisely knock-in viral-like and spike protein cargo resulting in consistent and stable expression. “We found that our newly identified sites outperformed genomic safe harbor sites published in the literature,” said Corey Brizzee, Ph.D., Director of Gene Editing at Demeetra. “This approach could help our partners provide rapid responses to infectious disease threats and can be adopted to any protein expression application in any cell type or organism.”
About Demeetra
Demeetra is a biotechnology company specializing in gene editing technologies with commercial freedom to operate. Our extensive expertise complements both our internally developed and globally sourced intellectual property portfolio. With diverse backgrounds in gene editing, encompassing microbes, plants, and mammalian cells; we offer clients optimized solutions and protocols for the rapid development of their gene-edited commercial products.