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Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Helix Therapeutics

"Modification Techniques: DNA and Business Plans"

Followed by networking, refreshments & wine bar

Helix Therapeutics is a seed-stage company dedicated to establishing cures for genetic diseases using triplex-forming oligonucleotide (TFO) technology. This technology for targeted DNA modifications was discovered in the laboratory of Dr. Peter Glazer of Yale. 

The technology facilitates targeted DNA modifications that can be designed, for example, to correct mutations, alter levels of gene expression, or functionally disrupt molecules critical to disease processes. The Helix approach does not rely on viral vectors and corrects the patients’ own blood stem cells, providing stable, heritable changes through autologous cell therapy.

Through the use of SBIR grants and seed funding, Helix plans to advance preclinical projects targeting the human globin gene for applications on sickle cell anemia and beta-thalassemia, the CCR5 receptor for the HIV/AIDS population, and genetic mutations responsible for lysosomal storage disease. The current mission is targeting blood-based genetic diseases; however, the company envisions applications in a broad array of human genetic diseases as advances in human stem cell biology are realized.

In March 2009, Connecticut Innovations announced a $515,000 investment in the company as part of a $965,000 round involving Launch Capital, Connecticut Innovations (CI), individual investors, and a line of credit from Webster Bank. Helix was the first company to receive assistance through CI’s Pre-Seed Support Services Program and then go on to qualify for investment through the Eli Whitney Fund.

The Yale BioHaven Entrepreneurship Series features presentations designed to showcase regionally developed life science technologies that have progressed along the path to commercialization.  Speakers at the BioHaven events represent both the scientific and business side of the enterprises.

The programs focus on key success factors of each company, scientific or technological advantage, business model, and lessons learned in starting and developing the business. The series also provides social networking opportunities for scientists/researchers in the Yale community.

For a calendar of all the 2009-10 BioHaven events, click here.

Speakers

Joseph J. Catino, Ph.D.

 President & CEO, Helix Therapeutics

Peter M. Glazer, M.D., Ph.D.

 Professor and Chair of Therapeutic Radiology and Professor of Genetics at Yale University; Founder, Helix Therapeutics

Dr. Catino has worked for 28 years at major pharmaceutical companies, most recently serving as Senior Vice President of Bayer HealthCare. Before that, Dr. Catino established an oncology discovery program at Schering-Plough Corporation where he was Senior Director and Distinguished Research Fellow. Prior to Schering-Plough, Dr. Catino worked in the Research Institute of Bristol Myers.

Dr. Glazer has been a leader in the field of targeted DNA repair, using sequence-specific DNA binding molecules and has received a number of research awards in recognition of his work including awards from the Radiation Research Society and the Leukemia Society of America. He is the author of over 100 scientific papers and holds key targeted DNA repair patents.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009
3:30 P.M. Registration
4:00 P.M. Seminar
5:00 P.M. Networking, Refreshments & Wine Bar

Location
The Anlyan Center auditorium, Yale Medical School.

Directions & Parking:
http://info.med.yale.edu/maps/cab.html

RSVP
Registration is free, but please RSVP in advance. E-mail to biohaven@yale.edu or call the Yale OCR main number: 203-785-6209.

Lead sponsors: Wiggin and Dana and PricewaterhouseCoopers.
 

 

Also sponsored by Elm Street Ventures.


Presented by CURE and the Yale Office of Cooperative Research.


Additional support from the Yale Entrepreneurial Institute and the Yale Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Society.


 
 
 
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