Exicure

Exicure, formerly AuraSense Therapeutics, is developing a new class of immunomodulatory and gene silencing drugs against validated targets. Its 3-dimensional, spherical nucleic acid (SNA) architecture unlocks the potential of nucleic acid therapeutics in multiple organs. The firm's lead programs address diseases from inflammatory disorders to oncology. SNA constructs overcome one of the most difficult obstacles to nucleic acid therapeutics: safe and effective delivery into cells and tissues. They exhibit unparalleled transfection efficiency into numerous cell and tissue types including the skin without carriers or transfection agents. Moreover, SNAs can be used as potent immunotherapeutic agents for the treatment of cancer or infectious disease. Exicure's intellectual property portfolio includes over 140 pending patent applications and over 55 allowed or issued patents. These filings impact numerous jurisdictions worldwide, and they cover a range of inventions, including fundamental nanoparticle manufacturing breakthroughs and numerous application-specific improvements.