Archon Biosciences Raises $20M to Develop AI-Enhanced "Antibody Cages" for New Therapeutics

Seattle’s Archon Biosciences, co-founded by David Baker, a recent Nobel Prize winner, has raised $20 million in seed funding to advance “antibody cages” — a new approach that adds AI-designed protein structures to standard antibodies. Led by CEO James Lazarovits and CTO George Ueda, Archon aims to expand antibody functions for new and improved therapeutic options.

Antibody cages are modified antibodies that incorporate AI-generated protein elements, designed to enhance the antibody’s ability to target specific tissues and alter distribution in the body. This method addresses the fact that while antibodies can be highly effective, they were not evolved specifically as drugs. By engineering new properties, Archon’s technology could widen the scope and effectiveness of antibody-based therapies.

The concept behind antibody cages began in David Baker’s lab, with Lazarovits and Ueda publishing initial findings in 2021. Archon’s current work includes early animal testing, where initial efficacy results have been promising but are not yet published. The company’s first targets are conditions without approved antibody treatments, though specifics on timelines remain undisclosed.

See also: The Rising Popularity of Antibody-Drug Conjugates, with Challenges

In addition to new treatments, antibody cages could extend the market relevance of established antibodies facing patent expiration. By adding unique, AI-driven enhancements, drug companies could differentiate original antibodies from biosimilars, offering improved therapeutic profiles and potentially securing a competitive edge.

With Lazarovits, Ueda, and David Baker as a non-voting board observer, Archon’s team is focused on practical, application-driven improvements to antibodies. The company’s approach avoids large-scale AI models, instead aiming for targeted modifications that could benefit current and future antibody therapies.

Topics: Biotech