Our Technology
Introduction
Ducentis is a pre-clinical stage company aiming to develop novel therapies for inflammation and autoimmune disease. Our target is the CD200/CD200R axis which imparts a deactivating signal to activated immune cells in both the innate and adaptive arms of the immune system. Potential therapeutic targets include transplant rejection and autoimmune and inflammatory disease affecting the lung, liver, kidney, eye, bone and cartilage.
Our advantage
Ducentis has identified a rapid route to securing patent rights to novel CD200 variants which combine novelty and improved efficacy. We have used in silico modelling to identify variant CD200 molecules with greater affinity for the CD200 receptor (CD200R) than wild-type ligand (CD200). These novel variants have a longer half-life on the receptor than endogenous CD200 and this cell free activity translates to greatly increased activity in functional cellular assays. We can expect that the superior in vitro profile of our variant CD200 molecules will give rise to lower doses, reduced cost of goods and improved efficacy in animal models and clinical studies (compared to wild-type protein).
Our market
The global autoimmune disease market is large $50B (2014) and growing with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) around 12.0%. Therapies for autoimmune disease and inflammation achieve higher early and late stage deal valuations than therapies for all other sectors (except oncology). No major pharma company has exited the autoimmune/inflammation field and there is no shortage of buyers for pre-clinical and clinical assets.
Operational model
Ducentis operates as a virtual company, unencumbered by building leases or physical assets, and led by an experienced team with world class drug discovery and development expertise. Our operational model ensures ensure that investment is focused on securing a data package supporting IP protection, safety, tractable manufacturing options and strong evidence of efficacy in pre-clinical and clinical models.