SynGenSys unveils NK.SET synthetic promoter library for natural killer cell therapies
SynGenSys has introduced NK.SET™, the first commercially available synthetic promoter library designed specifically for natural killer (NK) cell immunotherapies. The Sheffield-based biotechnology company’s announce-ment marks a significant validation of its platform for engineering tissue-specific gene regulation control elements.
Addressing critical limitations in NK cell therapy development
NK cell therapy development has historically been constrained by the lack of precise, cell-specific, tuneable transgene expression systems. These limitations affect both in vivo and ex vivo generated therapies, restricting the field’s ability to optimise therapeutic efficacy and targeting specificity.
The NK.SET library addresses these challenges through compact de novo sequences ranging from approximately 200-600 base pairs, offering customisable expression levels whilst reducing off-target activity. The minimal promoter size increases vector therapeutic payload capacity, enabling broader application across diverse therapeutic contexts.
Technical specifications and platform demonstration
Developed using the company’s proprietary informatics and design workflow, NK.SET provides cell-specific control over gene expression. Each promoter within the library can be tailored to meet specific therapeutic requirements, offering advantages over conventional natural promoters, which possess fixed sizes, activity profiles, and regulatory behaviours.
The library represents the first in a portfolio of cell type-specific libraries, serving as proof-of-concept for SynGenSys’ ability to design optimised promoters for particular tissues. Customers gain access to off-the-shelf targeted promoters that form the basis for rapid customisation aligned with specific therapeutic needs.
Strategic implications for gene therapy development
David James, co-founder and chief scientific officer at SynGenSys, commented: “The introduction of NK.SET marks a significant step forward for SynGenSys, and a clear demonstration of the utility of our platform. Not only does it open the door for new partnership opportunities in the expanding NK-based immunotherapy field, but it also extends the potential for applicability of our platform to other immune cells such as T cells, broadening our impact across the cell and gene therapy sector.”
The company emphasises that bespoke synthetic promoters can be tailored to specific therapeutic applications, offering precise on- and off-target activity. This approach facilitates the development of safer, more effective gene therapies, particularly in vivo gene therapies, with improved tissue specificity and reduced risk of off-target effects.
The NK.SET launch positions SynGenSys to expand into related immune cell applications, including T cell therapies, whilst establishing a foundation for partnership opportunities in the immunotherapy sector.
For more information, visit: www.syngensys.com
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David James, co-founder and chief scientific officer at SynGenSys
