Capsigen

Capsigen is a biotechnology company developing engineered adeno-associated virus (AAV) capsids to improve the delivery of gene therapies. Combining biological expertise, directed evolution, and data science, the company designs custom viral vectors intended to reach specific target cells while limiting delivery to other tissues and organs. Its work focuses on creating capsids tailored to the requirements of particular diseases and therapeutic applications.

Capsigen’s proprietary Transcription-Dependent Directed Evolution (TRADE) platform uses messenger RNA-based screening to identify functional capsids against complex, disease-specific criteria. The company also applies high-throughput screening and clinically relevant model systems to assess potency, targeting specificity, and potential translation to human treatment. Its approach is designed to produce fit-for-purpose capsids, often within about a year.

Capsigen supports the development of gene therapy delivery solutions and invites partnerships with organizations advancing this field. The company has reported developing a neurotropic capsid that showed increased neuronal transduction and reduced liver transduction compared with AAV9 in a nonhuman primate study. Its team brings experience in biotechnology, AAV research, business development, and entrepreneurship.