Nothing compares to meeting face to face

In-person conferences still feel quite special in the post-COVID world, and the recent BioEurope Spring conference in Basel was no exception. Despite the current financial jitters, the overall vibe was one of optimism and positivity with conversations and partnering meetings springing up everywhere. 

Metagenomics emerges as one to watch

We spotted a growing interest in the field of metagenomics - harnessing the genetic secrets of the microbes living within and on our bodies to support health. 

There are a number of exciting new companies moving into this space in search of novel therapeutic targets, applying innovative genomic tools such as high-throughput CRISPR-based functional genomics screens to dissect the metagenome, hand in hand with the latest DNA sequencing technologies. 

CROs and CDMOs step up their cell technologies

We also noticed a growing number of CROs and CDMOs working on cell-based research and manufacturing looking to apply CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing to give their services an edge. 

We’ve previously written about the need for antibody and other biotherapeutics manufacturers to embrace the use of CRISPR to optimise cell lines and biomanufacturing processes. Given the burgeoning market for biotherapeutics, it’s clear that this is just the start - there are huge opportunities for innovative contract research and manufacturing organisations who are willing to invest in these technologies.

Meeting face to face to unpick uncertainty

From our perspective as the world’s leading licensor of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technology, BioEurope Spring was a fantastic opportunity to connect with the life sciences community and get a sense of where the field is heading. And while so much of our work happens online over emails and Zoom calls, there’s nothing like sitting down face to face with people to clarify the complexities of CRISPR licensing and show how we can support their innovation. 

The current CRISPR patent landscape may look complicated on paper - and there are plenty of misperceptions out there - but the situation on the ground is simpler than many people think once we sit down and talk through it clearly. 

Fundamentally, any commercial use of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing is likely to start with a licence from ERS Genomics. If you’re using CRISPR and planning to be successful and legally compliant - which should be every company! - it’s better to start the discussion about licensing now than leave it too late.  
 

While CRISPR licensing may seem intimidating, being able to talk things through can really help to relieve anxiety and uncertainty. It’s always nice to leave a conversation hearing that the other person feels they’ve learned something new and been reassured about what they need to do next. And, of course, it’s always a pleasure to share the good news that we offer flexible pricing depending on the size of the company, with very favourable terms for startups. 

If you’d like to know more about CRISPR/Cas9 licensing for your innovation, you can chat to us in person at SynBioBeta in May, BioInternational in June, or BioEurope Autumn in November. And in the meantime, you can always reach out to the team through our website.