– Salesforce spearheaded project ProGen to design proteins using generative AI
– Research culminated in successful creation of 3D structures of artificial proteins
– Researcher Ali Madani launched company Profluent to bring protein-generating tech to pharmaceutical companies for drug development
Salesforce initiated ProGen, a project using generative AI to design proteins that could potentially reveal medical treatments more efficiently. Despite published research showing the successful creation of artificial protein structures, ProGen did not progress commercially until one of the researchers, Ali Madani, founded Profluent. Profluent aims to provide pharmaceutical companies with protein-generating technology to create custom-fit treatment solutions by starting with patient needs and working backwards.
Madani found parallels between language and proteins, leading to the development of Profluent. The company plans to optimize gene editing systems by using AI to design custom-fit gene editors for patients with genetic diseases. With Profluent training AI models on extensive data sets, they aim to collaborate with partners to develop genetic medicines more efficiently and economically.
Profluent’s approach could reduce the time and cost typically required to develop new medicines. By intentionally designing solutions in biology, rather than relying on accidental discoveries, Profluent hopes to revolutionize drug development. The company is supported by VC heavyweights and plans to upgrade its AI models, expand training data sets, and acquire customers and partners in the near future.
Profluent faces competition from other companies training protein-generating AI models, such as EvolutionaryScale and Basecamp Research. However, with continued scientific breakthroughs in gene editing, Profluent is determined to scale and collaborate with partners to achieve their ambitious goals.