Project Alpha

Ageing is inevitable! As the global population ages, the prevalence of age-related diseases poses a significant burden on both individuals and healthcare systems. According to WHO, by 2030, it is estimated that over 1.4 billion people worldwide will be over the age of 60, and this number is projected to reach 2.1 billion by 2050. This demographic shift highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions to tackle age-related diseases and improve the quality of life for older adults.

Ageing is a complex process influenced by a multitude of factors, with the accumulation of senescent cells emerging as a key contributor. Senescent cells are caused by multiple factors including cumulative damage and decreased levels of cellular autophagy, leading to the development of age-related pathologies in various organs such as the heart, liver, kidneys, muscles, brain and bone. The discovery of cellular senescence in 1961 has led to a new field of ageing research, with a focus on developing targeted interventions to address age-related diseases. Biotech companies have begun targeting senescent cells to mitigate a variety of age-related conditions.

Current research on therapies to mitigate the effects of ageing focuses on decreasing the number of senescent cells, but targeting these cells with senolytic drugs is challenging due to their specificity. While senolytic drugs have shown promise, their limited specificity requires intermittent administration to prevent toxicity to normal cells.

Our research aims to address this challenge by harnessing the specificity of antibodies that recognise cell surface proteins upregulated on senescent cells. These will be used to deliver reagents that will result in the upregulation of apoptosis or autophagy in the senescent cell, leading to programmed cell death and clearance. Our approach is a targeted and effective strategy for combating ageing-related diseases, and we believe it holds tremendous potential for improving the health and wellbeing of the ageing population.

As we strive to address the growing challenges posed by an ageing population, our proposal represents a significant step forward in the development of effective and targeted therapies. We believe that this research has the potential to make a real difference in the lives of millions of people worldwide, and we are committed to advancing this critical work.

Pipeline

Phase One

  • FA-antibody/conj-1
  • FA-antibody/conj-2
Q1 2023
Q1 2023

Screening/Identification

Q2 2023
Q2 2023

Candidate Selection

Q3 2023
Q3 2023

In-vitro Validation

Q4 2023
Q4 2023

Phase Two

Q1 2024
Q1 2024

In-vitro Testing

Q2 2024
Q2 2024

Tests Against Age-associated Diseases

Q3 2024
Q3 2024

In-vivo Testing

Q4 2024
Q4 2024

Phase Three

TBC
TBC

TBC

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Dr Gulam Altab

CEO/CSO

Dr. Gulam Altab (BSc, MSc, MRes, and PhD) is a dedicated researcher specialising in the ageing of skeletal muscle and its response to caloric restriction. His PhD thesis focused on understanding the intricate changes in non-coding RNAs that occur during muscle ageing in rats. During this research, he aimed to identify key regulatory elements and biomarkers, with a specific focus on whether these changes could be influenced by dietary interventions, especially caloric restriction.

Gulam’s academic journey includes an MSc in Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine and an MRes in Musculoskeletal Ageing. He has extensive experience in various research techniques and methodologies, including RNA sequencing, single-cell analysis, and molecular biology. He possesses a deep understanding of the complex cellular pathways and molecular mechanisms that underlie the ageing of tissues.

Currently, Gulam is deeply interested in the potential of targeted anti-ageing therapeutics. He firmly believes that slowing the ageing process is not only about extending our years but also enhancing the quality of our lives. It represents a journey towards a healthier, more fulfilling future.

“Slowing the ageing process is not just about increasing our lifespan; it’s an opportunity to improve our quality of life. It’s a path towards a healthier, more rewarding future.”