Locus Biosciences is pioneering the development of engineered bacteriophage therapies aimed at treating bacterial infections and addressing significant unmet medical needs in fields such as immunology and oncology. Central to their approach is the LOCUS platform, which integrates advanced technologies including synthetic biology, artificial intelligence (AI), and high-throughput robotics. This platform allows for the precise engineering of bacteriophage cocktails that can selectively target harmful bacteria while preserving beneficial microbiota. By utilizing a combination of automated biobanking, predictive modeling, and extensive genomic data, Locus aims to create off-the-shelf therapeutic options that are both effective and scalable.

The company’s lead product, LBP-EC01, is a CRISPR-enhanced bacteriophage therapy designed to combat antibiotic-resistant E. coli infections, particularly in urinary tract infections (UTIs). The therapy leverages a dual mechanism of action, utilizing both the natural lytic properties of bacteriophages and the targeted DNA-editing capabilities of CRISPR-Cas3. Locus has established a state-of-the-art cGMP manufacturing facility to ensure the production of high-potency and high-purity therapeutic materials, which has been recognized with industry awards. Their ongoing clinical trials, supported by partnerships with organizations like BARDA, underscore the potential of their engineered bacteriophage platform to address the growing challenge of multidrug-resistant pathogens.

United States

Next generation CRISPR technology for programmed cell death. Focused on developing therapies for infectious disease and the microbiome.

Locus Biosciences’ novel approach to precision antimicrobials works by taking advantage of a part of an immune system present in many bacteria called the CRISPR-Cas system. The CRISPR-Cas system protects bacteria from invaders such as viruses by creating small strands of RNA called CRISPR RNAs, which match DNA sequences specific to a given invader. When the CRISPR RNAs find a match, they activate Cas proteins that cut the DNA.

Locus Biosciences

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