Matter Bio, a biotech company focused on preserving genome integrity and extending a healthy human lifespan, announced the successful closing of its seed round funding and raised $7 million to advance its work in longevity research.
The seed funding round was led by Lifespan Vision Ventures, with participation from quadraScope Ventures and others, and includes grant support from NIH, NCI, and NIEHS. The funds will be utilized to conduct research into the information theory of aging at a genomic level, which Matter believes contributes significantly to the aging process.
The funding will also enable the filing of an IND and the start of a Phase 1/2a clinical trial in solid cancer. And Matter Bio tackles the problem of genome instability holistically, addressing the issue through a multi-pronged approach:
1.) Reading Mutation – Detecting and identifying loss of genomic information.
2.) Reversing – Correcting integrated mutations and reintroducing original genetic information.
3.) Removing – Eliminating cells that are too damaged to be repaired like cancerous, clonal, and senescent cells.
Matter Bio assembled a world-class team of scientists and executives, including co-founders such as George Church, PhD, a pioneer in genome sequencing and gene editing, Jan Vijg, PhD, an expert in genome instability and somatic mutations, and Claudia Gravekamp, PhD, a world authority in attenuated bacterial therapeutics.
The company operates at the forefront of longevity biotechnology, utilizing scientific approaches to address the complexities of aging.
KEY QUOTES:
“Genomic integrity is a cornerstone of longevity and healthspan extension. Matter Bio is pioneering a crucial approach in the fight against aging by focusing on the preservation of our genetic blueprint. I am excited to see the impact of their work on enhancing human health.”
- George Church, Professor of Genetics at Harvard Medical School
“Our investment in Matter Bio furthers our mission of supporting the cutting-edge interventions that promote longevity and combat aging. Matter Bio’s strong team, cutting-edge genomic preservation technologies, and early-stage partnerships give the company excellent prospects to succeed with its vision.”
- Andrew Worden, Founding Partner of LifeSpan Vision Ventures
