This year, biotech took an unusual pivot.
Companies were adopting lean business models. Scientific founders were operating more like tech execs. The future of how humanity benefits from science will depend on the convergence of biotech and software.
Here are 3 of the many innovations we see changing our world in 2023:
1. Building of the artificial body.
Last week, Congress passed the FDA Modernization Act. If signed into law, “nonclinical tests” will expand to include bioprinting, organs-on-a-chip, and organoids. Scientists are working to realistically replicate the brain, liver, stomach, heart, and many other organs.
Artificial organs are a step towards fundamentally changing the way we study and treat disease:
👉They offer greater insight into the way cells interact and communicate throughout development, enabling new drug targets.
👉They will allow for the simulation of therapeutic efficacy and collection of pharmacokinetic data for existing drug candidates at the preclinical stage.
More therapeutics will be brought to market faster as we streamline drug screening and shorten the drug development timeline.
2. Programmable biology, aided by software.
Personalized medicine is evolving to become more tunable and potent, which will strengthen the bioeconomy like never before.
Viruses, bacteria, and other microbes can be custom designed to edit genes and target malignant cells with higher specificity. Imagine a future in generative AI, where one day, we can produce DNA/protein structures for these microorganisms just by inputting custom text.
In 2023, we also expect more crossover into non-pharma industries like consumer products, industrial processes, and agriculture/food:
👉Microorganisms will transform personal care products to be safer and more sustainable.
👉It will replace chemicals in our supply chains that have traditionally been derived from petroleum.
👉It will address our global food crisis by making crops more disease-resistant.
3. Human augmentation and longevity.
Anti-aging tech will become more consumer-facing, as consumers take more ownership of their quality of life. This year, we saw new biomarker discovery for age-associated diseases (Parkinson’s) and investment poured into regenerative medicine, epigenetics, and cell rejuvenation research.
As we better understand the molecular basis behind aging, we will soon be able to predict biological age and risk factors for chronic diseases with high accuracy.
👉These predictions will be more accessible to consumers as D2C tests, personal supplements, and app-based recommendations.
👉Widespread adoption of cognitive enhancement products (improving memory, focus, and recall) will take place.
👉Reproductive aging and ovarian lifespan will receive more attention, eventually making fertility tech more affordable and accessible.
If you’re a talented, early-stage founder innovating in any of these areas, reach out! We’re excited to meet you.
