Redbiotec and TeselaGen to Partner on Herpesvirus vaccine library

Redbiotec will contribute its proprietary rePAX technology for production of virus-like particles (VLPs) and multi-protein complexes and their expertise in the field of HCMV (human cytomegalovirus) to build a verified library of VLPs/multi-protein complexes for vaccine development and testing. By using TeselaGen’s technology, Redbiotec expects to accelerate the development of the new library. This library also will help reveal potential causes of virus latency and help elucidate virus-triggered cancer mechanisms.

TeselaGen will contribute its proprietary Synthetic Evolution technology, which uses synthetic biology approaches to build and modify DNA, and automate library creation, as well as statistical learning approaches to model performance of VLPs/multi-protein complexes and feed information back into the design process. The two companies will work together to enhance their respective technologies to meet’s the joint venture’s objectives.

“Redbiotec’s deep experience in VLP production and synthetic virology is very valuable to TeselaGen as we develop our technology to solve real world problems. We are very impressed with Redbiotec’s work on HCMV and are eager to help speed the development pipeline to go after vaccine candidates for Herpes,” said Michael Fero, CEO, TeselaGen. “Our partnerships with key industrial sectors in biotechnology are allowing us to build technology that adds a great deal of real-world value. We are convinced our synthetic biology approaches are going to prove very successful.”

“TeselaGen’s experience and capabilities in automated DNA design are very important to Redbiotec”, said Christian Schaub, CEO, Redbiotec. “Our concept for novel Herpesvirus vaccines candidates requires the collection of a large amount of data on DNA as well as on manufacturing and analysis of the expressed viral constructs. In 2012 we surveyed the market for potential partners and discovered an ideal strategic partner in TeselaGen. TeselaGen is at the leading edge in terms of creating bio design technology that talks directly to high-throughput bio-production. After our achievements with HCMV vaccine development we are excited to apply both partners’ skills and technology to extend our pipeline further into Herpesviruses.”

About Redbiotec
Redbiotec is a Swiss premium vaccine-technology provider enabling the development of novel vaccines against infectious diseases using virus-like particles (VLPs) with unmatched safety, precision and efficiency. Redbiotec is privately held and is based in Zurich-Schlieren. Founded in 2006 as a spin-off of the ETH Zurich, the company won several awards, including the renowned W.A. De Vigier award. Redbiotec uses its proprietary rePAX technology for the efficient generation of multi-component virus-like particles (VLPs) and other protein assemblies. The company currently has a pipeline in the areas of CMV, HPV and Influenza. The Redbiotec technology has been validated by customers with profound experience in the development of immuno-therapeutics, including Roche (D) and MSD (Merck USA).

About TeselaGen
TeselaGen is a California synthetic biology technology provider, enabling the development of viral constructs, biologic medicines, and sustainably sourced chemicals. TeselaGen is privately held and is based in San Francisco, CA. TeselaGen uses its proprietary Synthetic Evolution technology for efficient rapid prototyping of recombinant molecules. The company's customers helping validate its approach include Amgen (USA), and Genomatica (USA).