BioKnow

𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐞 𝐒𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦: The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that defends the body against pathogens like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It consists of two main components: innate immunity (non-specific) and adaptive immunity (specific). 1. Key Components Innate Immunity Physical Barriers: Skin and mucous membranes prevent pathogen entry. Chemical Barriers: Antimicrobial secretions and acidic environments (e.g., stomach acid). Cellular Defenses: Phagocytes: Macrophages and neutrophils that engulf pathogens. Natural Killer Cells: Attack infected or cancerous cells. Dendritic Cells: Link innate and adaptive immunity. Inflammatory Response: Increased blood flow and recruitment of immune cells. Complement System: Proteins that enhance antibody and phagocyte functions. Adaptive Immunity Lymphocytes: B Cells: Produce antibodies and form memory B cells. T Cells: Helper T Cells (CD4+): Activate B cells and other immune cells. Cytotoxic T Cells (CD8+): Destroy infected or cancerous cells. Antibodies: Bind to specific antigens to neutralize or mark them for destruction. Memory Cells: Provide long-lasting immunity after initial exposure. 2. Functions of the Immune System Recognition of Pathogens: Differentiates between self and non-self. Response to Infections: Activates immune cells to eliminate pathogens. Memory Formation: Creates memory cells for quicker responses upon re-exposure. Homeostasis: Maintains balance by clearing dead cells and preventing excessive responses. 3. Types of Immune Responses Humoral Immunity: B cells and antibodies target extracellular pathogens. Cell-Mediated Immunity: T cells target intracellular pathogens and cancer cells. Primary vs. Secondary Response: Primary: Slower response to first exposure. Secondary: Faster, more robust response due to memory cells. 4. Immune System Disorders Immunodeficiency Disorders: Weakened immune response (e.g., HIV/AIDS). Autoimmune Diseases: Immune system attacks its own tissues (e.g., lupus). Allergies: Exaggerated responses to harmless substances. Chronic Inflammation: Persistent immune activation leading to tissue damage. 5. Influences on the Immune System Genetics: Influences immune effectiveness. Age: Immunity typically declines with age. Nutrition: A balanced diet supports immune function. Stress and Sleep: Chronic stress and poor sleep negatively impact immunity. Exercise: Regular activity boosts immune health. The immune system is essential for protecting the body from diseases. Understanding its components and functions can help in maintaining health and preventing illness. #immunology #oncology #biotech #celltherapy

𝐈𝐍𝐃 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐬𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲 🌊 This visual does a great job of summarizing the process for submitting an Investigational New Drug (IND) application to the US FDA. Although complex and rigorous, spending the time to learn the steps and requirements that make up a successful IND submission will pay dividends down the line for your company and its shareholders. What other resources like this one are available to help industry professionals de-risk the IND submission process? #celltherapy #genetherapy #biotech #pharma

Next-Gen CAR T-Cells Powered by TCR Innovations 👇 Current CAR T-cells, which combine antibody-targeting with T-cell signaling, often cause severe side effects like cytokine release syndrome and struggle in suppressive tumour environments. Recent advances draw on deep insights into T-cell receptor (TCR) biology to enhance CAR design. TCRs, highly sensitive natural receptors, detect minimal antigens with balanced activation. Researchers are now incorporating TCR signaling elements into CARs to create "TCR-like" CARs, which promise more precise activation, lower exhaustion, and better persistence. Early clinical trials of these next-generation CARs show promising results: improved response, fewer side effects, and increased T-cell longevity. With these advances, CAR T-cells could soon offer a powerful, safer option for a broader range of cancers. #celltherapy #immunology #oncology #biotech

🚀 Thriving Beyond Biotech Layoffs: Turning Workforce Reductions into New Opportunities With the recent workforce reduction at Astellas, Charles River, Tome Biosciences and more, the wave of biotech layoffs sadly continues. While these changes are tough, they also present a unique opportunity. 🔍 At BioKnow, we provide a free, public Q&A platform that can help you stay engaged and visible in the biotech community. 💪 Leverage Your Expertise: Answering questions on our platform not only helps others but also highlights your skills to potential employers. It’s a simple yet powerful way to differentiate yourself in a competitive market. 👉 Join the conversation at BioKnow.io and let’s turn challenges into new beginnings, together. #biopharma #Biotech #JobSearch #BioKnow

𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐮𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 👇 Each element's entry by Simon below includes its name, symbol, atomic number, and a description of its physical traits, common uses, and occurrences. The table is more than a chart; it’s a guide to the essential building blocks of everything we encounter. Gaining insight into chemistry deepens our understanding of both nature and the innovations of modern society. In essence, chemistry is everywhere. What element fascinates you the most? >>> SOURCE: Simon Maechling - incredible work. Follow him. #chemistry #biotech #biopharma #pharmaceuticals

𝐀𝐈 𝐈𝐧 𝐏𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐚 👇 The rapid evolution of AI is transforming the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in fields like drug discovery, clinical trials, and personalised medicine. With Nobel prizes now recognizing AI-driven breakthroughs, it’s clear that AI’s potential in healthcare is becoming mainstream. However, the pharma sector’s readiness to leverage this technology varies widely across companies. The recent Pharma AI Readiness Index from CB Insights and curated by Joanna Sadowska, provides insights into this readiness by ranking pharmaceutical giants based on three critical pillars: talent, execution, and innovation. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘱 10 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘭𝘶𝘥𝘦: - Roche - Bayer - Johnson & Johnson - Novartis - Sanofi - AstraZeneca - Amgen - Pfizer - GSK - Bristol-Myers Squibb This index showcases how well-positioned companies are to adopt and scale AI solutions effectively. What’s your take on this? Do you think these rankings reflect true AI readiness, or should other factors be considered in evaluating AI adoption in pharma. Great work from 𝐉𝐨𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐚 𝐒𝐚𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐬𝐤𝐚, 𝐏𝐡𝐃, 𝐄𝐌𝐁𝐀 - follow her. #AI #biotech #biopharma #pharmaceuticals

𝐌𝐚𝐣𝐨𝐫 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐥/𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐞 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐲 🧬 40 leading companies in North America, Europe and Asia Any companies missing? #biotech #celltherapy #cellandgenetherapy #genetherapy

CRISPR Reduces Aging in Neural Stem Cell Research 👇 In a recent study, researchers developed high-throughput CRISPR–Cas9 screening platforms to systematically identify gene knockouts that boost NSC activation specifically in old mice. Their findings were remarkable: 🔬 300+ gene knockouts were found to enhance activation in aging NSCs, focusing on those involved in cilium organization and glucose transport. 🚀 Among these, the knockout of Slc2a4, which encodes the GLUT4 glucose transporter, emerged as a key intervention, significantly improving NSC function and promoting the production of new neurons. 💡 The study reveals that increased glucose uptake may contribute to the decline in NSC activation with age, suggesting that targeted interventions could rejuvenate these critical cells. This work not only sheds light on the genetic mechanisms underlying NSC activation but also opens up exciting avenues for developing therapies aimed at counteracting age-related cognitive decline and improving regenerative capabilities in the brain. Study, here: https://lnkd.in/gkmRh-Pv Let’s celebrate the power of scientific innovation in addressing the challenges of aging! 🎉 #biotech #neurology #CRISPR #genetherapy

𝐄𝐩𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐩𝐬𝐲 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐞: Key Players in the Market 👇 Companies like Xenon, Bayer, Teva, and Bausch Health are already marketing treatments for epilepsy. On the pediatric side, Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi, and Marinus are pushing forward, addressing early-onset seizure types like DEEs (Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies). It’s exciting to see the innovation happening across adult, pediatric, and combined epilepsy markets, with advancements spanning from pre-clinical to marketed products. 🔬 Meanwhile, companies like Cerevel, Biohaven, uniQure, and Harmony Biosciences are making waves in Phase I/II clinical trials, ensuring the pipeline remains rich with potential new therapies. The diversity of players across different stages of development shows both the competitive nature of this space and the dedication to improving outcomes for epilepsy patients of all ages. Source: TD Cowen #biotech #neurology #epilepsy #biopharma

𝐓𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧: How rADCs are Redefining Cancer Therapy 👇 Pharmaceutical companies are increasingly focusing on radiolabeled antibody-drug conjugates (rADCs) to enhance the precision of radiation delivery in cancer treatment. Traditional radiation therapies often cause side effects—such as fatigue and hair loss—by affecting both cancerous and healthy cells. rADCs aim to target only cancer cells, potentially reducing these side effects. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐫𝐀𝐃𝐂𝐬 While only two radiotherapeutics, Novartis’ Pluvicto and Lutathera, have received FDA approval, the field is rapidly evolving. rADCs combine antibodies with radioactive isotopes to direct treatment specifically to tumors. Lana Janes, COO of Abdera, highlights the significant potential of rADCs in the current therapeutic landscape. 𝐂𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 Many companies, including Telix Pharmaceuticals and Convergent Therapeutics, are advancing clinical-stage rADC candidates for cancers like prostate and breast cancer. Telix's TLX591, which targets prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA), is currently in Phase III trials and has shown promise in reducing prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. Similarly, Convergent’s CONV01-α has demonstrated efficacy in earlier trials. Abdera is at the forefront of custom rADC development, utilizing a platform called ROVEr to optimize antibodies for specific radioactive payloads. Their lead candidate, ABD-147, recently received orphan drug designation from the FDA and is preparing for Phase I trials in small cell lung cancer. Despite the promise of rADCs, challenges remain, particularly in ensuring a steady supply of short-lived radioisotopes. The regulatory landscape for radiotherapeutics is also complex, requiring detailed human dosimetry data for safety assessments. #oncology #radiopharma #biopharma #biotech