Booster Therapeutics to create proteasome activator drugs

Booster Therapeutics has officially launched with the support of a $15 million investment to pioneer a novel class of proteasome activator medications. The goal is to address neurodegenerative diseases and other complex conditions. The financing round was led by Apollo Health Ventures and Novo Holdings.

The company is dedicated to creating small-molecule therapeutics that boost the natural function of proteasomes—cellular structures crucial for eliminating harmful proteins. Proteasomes play an essential role in maintaining cellular health by degrading damaged or misfolded proteins. When these proteasomes are compromised, defective proteins can build up, potentially leading to severe diseases.

In contrast to existing therapies that target individual proteins for destruction, Booster Therapeutics aims to treat diseases caused by multiple protein dysfunctions. Their innovative compounds activate 20S proteasomes, which can detect and degrade disordered proteins without needing ubiquitin tagging, a marker protein required in other treatments.

Booster Therapeutics employs its DGRADX platform for the discovery of small molecules. This platform utilizes automated high-throughput screening in conjunction with advanced structural and computational techniques. It is specifically designed to enhance the activity of 20S proteasomes, thereby boosting the body's ability to eliminate disease-causing proteins.

The company has an extensive library of activator compounds and plans to develop a diverse array of treatments targeting proteinopathies and other diseases caused by abnormal proteins. According to Dr. Diogo Feleciano, co-founder and chief scientific officer of Booster Therapeutics, proteasome activation has significant advantages over traditional protein degradation methods. It offers a powerful tool for combating the effects of various deviant proteins that can accumulate in cells due to aging or disease. The potential implications for addressing major degenerative conditions, such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, are profound.

Dr. Feleciano expressed gratitude for the investors' support, which has enabled Booster Therapeutics to assemble a world-class team. This team is committed to realizing the untapped potential of proteasome activation to treat a range of difficult-to-treat diseases.