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Highlighting the Bright Future of Oligonucleotides
Charles River recently hosted an insightful Lunch & Learn that brought together a diverse group of industry professionals to explore the challenges and opportunities in non-clinical drug development of oligonucleotide therapeutics, and the future impact of this drug class to patients suffering from life-threatening diseases.
During this event, our expert scientist and member of our Scientific Advisory Services (SAS) Dr. Michael Templin illustrated the promise held within oligonucleotide drugs. Dr. Templin’s presentation detailed the intricacies of oligonucleotide drugs, as illustrated by their unique mechanisms of action and ability to interact with and silence genes to modify or block protein synthesis, and ultimately provide a means to correct genetic abnormalities.
Dr. Templin underlined the significance of oligonucleotides in the newest wave of patient-focused drug development. His presentation broke down complex scientific processes into key questions and approaches, and explained how these small strands of nucleic acids could be tailored to fight various diseases at the genetic level. One of the notable points of the luncheon was the topic of patient-focused programs, as exemplified by Milasen, an individualized antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) developed for 6-year-old Mila Makovec who was diagnosed with ultra-rare Batten’s Disease. This case study brought a human element to the discussion, emphasizing the real-world impact of Charles River’s endeavors and demonstrating how this program ushered in a new paradigm of expedited, efficient, and targeted drug development. During the Q&A session between Dr. Templin and guests, many voiced their current efforts and experience with this drug class, and they exchanged on the balance of rapid scientific advancement and the need for clarity in regulatory expectations.
This event provided a renewed understanding of oligonucleotides’ potential to revolutionize personalized medicine and facilitated the exchange of information and ideas within a rapidly evolving scientific landscape.
About Dr. Templin
In his role as a senior principal scientific advisor and as a Director in Charles River’s Scientific Advisory Services (SAS), Michael V. Templin, PhD, DABT provides experienced counsel on the subjects of biotechnology and pharmaceutical drug development with expertise in the realms of toxicology, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics. Dr. Templin has over 15 years of biotechnology and pharma experience and over five years’ experience in non-clinical CRO. Specializing in numerous therapeutic areas including cancer, inflammation, cardiovascular, metabolic, and viral diseases, Mike has a proven track record for transitioning drug candidates from research into development. He uses his diverse scientific knowledge to guide clients’ nonclinical development programs and to advise on ways to strengthen and/or accelerate their nonclinical programs.
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