Epigenos Biosciences Inc., a spinout from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, is pioneering a novel approach to gene therapy by using epigenetics to achieve more precise and controllable treatments. Co-founded by Joe Ruiz and Dr. Nate Hathaway, the company translates innovative academic research into commercial therapies aimed at rare diseases and cancers driven by single-gene disruptions.

Rather than editing the DNA itself, Epigenos’ platform works by modulating gene expression through natural epigenetic processes. This allows for finely tuned, reversible control over gene activity — a critical advantage in conditions like Friedreich’s Ataxia, where restoring just half of normal gene function can be curative, while overexpression can lead to heart complications.

Initially, the company relied on CRISPR-Cas technology for gene targeting, but licensing barriers made commercialization challenging. To address this, Epigenos shifted to Zinc Finger technology — a gene-targeting method developed before CRISPR that no longer requires expensive licensing. This strategic pivot was supported by a $250,000 loan from the North Carolina Biotechnology Center (NCBiotech), which funded proof-of-concept studies and a freedom-to-operate analysis that confirmed the new path wouldn’t face IP restrictions.

NCBiotech played a key role in shaping the company’s development path. Through its guidance and funding, Epigenos strengthened its business strategy and formed strategic collaborations with experts like Joe McMahon from Bioventure Partners. The company also benefited from NCBiotech’s Therapeutics Portfolio Company Lunch program, where startup CEOs share insights and learn from each other.

In 2024, Epigenos received a Kickstart Venture Award that helped refine its market pitch, resulting in encouraging responses from potential strategic partners. The company is now focused on securing further funding to carry out preclinical animal studies. These studies will assess dosing, timing, durability, and gene expression control — crucial steps before entering clinical trials.

Joe Ruiz emphasizes that Epigenos is building the next generation of gene therapy by giving developers the tools to improve precision and durability in treatment. By offering a platform that enables control after delivery, Epigenos hopes to improve outcomes for patients while advancing the broader field of gene therapy.

Source: https://www.ncbiotech.org/news/epigenos-biosciences-brings-epigenetic-precision-gene-therapy