The Epitranscriptome Heads Toward Clinical Necessity
Short-read RNA sequencing reporting the modifications that alter protein output is starting to make epitranscriptomics indispensable for patient selection in precision medicines. The post The Epitranscriptome Heads Toward Clinical Necessity appeared first on GEN - Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology News .
The epitranscriptome is gaining recognition as a crucial layer in the quest for precision medicines. Gudrun Stengel, CEO of Alida Biosciences, believes that understanding RNA modifications is essential to improving therapeutic efficacy and predicting patient responses. Despite recent breakthroughs, only a small percentage of patients respond well to advanced therapies like checkpoint inhibitors and cell and gene therapies.
To address this, Stengel emphasizes the need to consider all layers of epigenetic regulation, especially with AI enabling the integration of vast amounts of data.
However, RNA modifications remain relatively understudied due to their difficulty in accurate measurement. AlidaBio focuses on three important RNA modifications—N6-methyladenosine (m6A), inosine, and pseudouridine—as a means to create better epitranscriptomics models for improved understanding of epigenetic regulation. These modifications can rapidly alter RNA expression within hours, significantly affecting a cell's response to therapeutics.
The company's EpiPlex platform, launched in 2025, enables the simultaneous, one-pot detection, localization, and quantification of these modifications in sparse and degraded RNA found in clinical samples. This platform allows for the analysis of patient stratification for specific therapies, response monitoring, and therapeutic development. N6-methyladenosine (m6A), the most common modification, plays a significant role in cell differentiation and cell fate.
Stengel, who founded the company five years ago, transitioned from a successful genomics technology role at Illumina to a smaller, more entrepreneurial environment. She secured venture capital funding within six months and assembled a core team. Although epitranscriptomics is still relatively unknown to many, Stengel believes significant progress has been made as more conference attendees recognize its importance.
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