BIOGAMI Teaming Profiles
This page is designed to help facilitate connections between prospective proposers, which ARPA-H anticipates will be necessary to achieve the goals of the BIOmolecular Grammar for protein Aggregation Modulation and Intervention (BIOGAMI) program. Prospective performers are encouraged (but not required) to form teams with varied technical expertise to submit a proposal.
If either you or your organization are interested in teaming, please create a profile via the ARPA-H Solutions Portal linked below. Your details will then be added to this page, which is publicly available.
Please note that by publishing the teaming profiles list, ARPA-H is not endorsing, sponsoring, or otherwise evaluating the qualifications of the individuals or organizations included here. Submissions to the teaming profiles list are reviewed and updated periodically.
BIOGAMI Teaming Profiles
To narrow the results in the Teaming Profiles List, please use the input below to filter results based on your search term. The list will filter as you type.
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| Jyotika Varshney | Verisim Life Inc. | jo.varshney@verisimlife.com | San Francisco, CA | VeriSIM Life focuses on the design and prediction of protein behavior in human biology using hybrid AI and mechanistic modeling. Our BIOiSIM® platform integrates machine learning with molecular, biophysical, and physiology-based simulations to decode how sequence and environmental perturbations influence protein conformations, aggregation propensity, and downstream organ- and patient-level outcomes, enabling early intervention, therapeutic design, and risk reduction. | We seek partners with deep expertise in intrinsically disordered proteins, protein misfolding/aggregation biology, and experimental assay systems. Ideal collaborators generate mechanistic or high-content molecular data that can be integrated into our translational AI framework to connect early protein-level interventions with downstream in vivo exposure, safety, and functional outcomes relevant to disease prevention. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| George (Bill) Jackson | Base Pair Biotechnologies, Inc. | bill.jackson@basepairbio.com | Houston, TX | Founded in 2012, BasePair is the leading provider of custom *aptamer* discovery services. In addition to our target-agnostic, patented platform for *multiplexed* aptamer discovery, we have a keen interest in applying aptamers to neurological disorders. Using BasePair aptamers, we and our customers have developed sensors and assays for literally hundreds of unique protein and peptide targets. Aptamers have a potential role in BIOGAMI for both diagnostics and as folding "chaperones". | Looking to partner as a subcontractor to any group developing biosensors or therapeutic interventions under this initiative. In addition to de novo aptamer discovery, we can develop prototype sensors with a variety of transduction mechanisms. We also provide custom cell culture services and biophysical characterizations. Finally, BasePair supports multiple customers in therapeutic aptamer development and delivery technologies including BBB-crossing aptamers and nose-to-brain delivery. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Varun Gadkari | University of Minnesota | vgadkari@umn.edu | Minneapolis, MN | We develop native ion mobility-mass spectrometry which can effectively make measurements of protein misfolding and oligomerization in the gas phase. This approach is tolerant of complex mixtures (e.g., multiple oligomeric states in solution) and can be used to quantitatively analyze individual components of this mixture. Once protein oligomer complexes are in the mass spectrometer, we can use gas-phase energy deposition to analyze the stability, structural properties of disordered oligomers. | We are looking for experts in solution-phase methods to characterize IDP systems who can validate our measurements and provide other complementary measurements. We would also need partners who can design and synthesize drugs to test. Our methods are ideal for high throughput screening, but we are not molecule makers. Lastly we would need partners with access to tissue samples to translate our work, and experts in AI/computation to meet the priorities of the call. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Andrew Stern | Brigham and Women's Hospital | astern@bwh.harvard.edu | Boston, MA | I am a clinical neurologist and basic scientist analyzing the state of amyloid-forming proteins as they exist in the human brain. I have AI collaborations and we are interested in the BIOGAMI application. | Structural biologists interested in amyloid formation and developing methods for AI model design. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Chirag Patel | Harvard Medical School | Chirag_Patel@hms.harvard.edu | Boston, MA | Artificial intelligence, exposomics, genomics | AD expertise | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Vijaya Kolachalama | Boston University | vkola@bu.edu | Boston, MA | Research and development | Experts in various fields | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Theodosia Bartashevitch | Amylnac | theodosiabartashevitch@gmail.com | Culver City, CA | Early amyloid structure prediction | Experimental validation, TA2 | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Steven Santos | Danaher | ssantos04@dhdiagnostics.com | Washington, DC | Neurodegenerative Diagnostics | - | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Xuan Wang | Virginia Tech | xuanw@vt.edu | Blacksburg, VA | Our research focuses on AI models for biological and healthcare data, with an emphasis on training efficient foundation and small foundation models for multimodal inputs. We develop methods for optimizing neural architectures, agent frameworks, and training strategies that capture biological grammar and structure–function relationships, enabling robust, interpretable models for complex biological systems. | We are seeking teams with strong expertise in protein science, biophysics, or experimental biology who are interested in integrating advanced AI methods. In particular, we aim to collaborate with partners developing data, assays, or models for intrinsically disordered proteins and aggregation, where our AI and agentic training methods can support modeling, interpretation, and early-stage detection. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Zoya Gluzman-Poltorak | Forta Bio | Zoya@forta.bio | San Diego and San Francisco, CA | Forta Bio is developing a novel class of targeted, “naked” oligonucleotide therapeutics called ODC™ molecules (Oligonucleotide-Dependent Cytotoxicity) and FortaAI™ (FortaGuideAI™), an integrated AI engine for designing and optimizing these therapeutics. This platform enables a new modality of programmable, cell-selective DNA/RNA therapeutics that combine targeted delivery, intracellular activation, and immune modulation in a single, synthetically simple molecule. | We are looking for codeveloping of targeted CNS therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases using our ODC novel technology that provides targeted brain delivery via BBB crossing aptamers and immunomodulatory component. The ideal partner will have identified a relevant target and proven MOA in vivo that can be combined with our modality. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| June Lee, MD, PhD | NSMS | Dr.JuneLee@nsmsusa.org | Bethesda, MD | NSMS is a clinical powerhouse driving TA2 and TA3 via autonomous AI-driven pharmacology. Our team utilizes self-optimizing ML models for autonomous PK/PD prediction and predictive allometric scaling of protein modulators. We operate GLP-compliant facilities for IND-enabling studies, integrating autonomous bioanalytical pipelines with CSF microdialysis to validate BBB penetration. We ensure "grammar" edits achieve human-ready bioavailability through AI-steered translation. | We seek TA1 (Modeling) and TA2 (Discovery) partners with novel "grammar-based" modalities (ASOs, PROTACs, small molecules) needing a clinical transition engine. NSMS provides the pharmacological rigor and FDA/IND regulatory strategy to bridge the gap to TA3 implementation. We seek collaborators with high-potency candidates who require expert solutions for BBB transport, metabolic stability, and human dose-prediction to ensure successful clinical translation. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Avi Samelson | University of California, Los Angeles | asamelson@ucla.edu | Los Angeles, CA | My lab uses high-throughput methods in iPSC-derived neurons to understand the basis for IDP aggregation and behavior. | I am looking for people who have AI and MD experience as well as mass spectrometry-based structural biology | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Priyanka Joshi | Georgetown University Medical Center | priyanka.joshi@georgetown.edu | Washington DC, DC | The Laboratory of Biomolecular Homeostasis and Resilience investigates protein folding mechanisms in aging and neurodegenerative disease using mass spectrometry-based structural proteomics, AI-driven approaches, and multi-scale biology. We specialize in metabolite-protein interactions affecting proteostasis, environmental triggers of protein aggregation, physical exposures-induced protein conformational changes and developing predictive models for aggregation propensity in crowded environments. | We generate high-throughput environmental perturbation data and structural proteomics readouts. We seek AI/ML partners for discovering environment-to-aggregation grammar at scale and computational teams for testing grammar-based predictions through rational design. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Farshid Roumi | Parthian | froumi@parthiannrg.com | Los Angeles and San Jose, CA | We are a spinoff from Caltech (mechanical engineering and electrical.computer enginneering) 1- developed a low cost yet high sensitivity magnetic based sensing technology. 2- Mathematical model for phase transformation (reversible and irreversible shape changing) in advanced materials (eg. Austenite/martensite transformation in bacteriophage). 3- mechanical geometry (as Dr. Marsden work at Caltech) which helps predict the folding mechanism based on a robust mathematical model | We can do the mathematical model and simulations. We are looking for a numerical biology group to partner with. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Peter Koulen | UMKC | koulenp@umkc.edu | Kansas City, MO | Development of neuroprotective therapeutics | molecular modeling expertise | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Daojing Wang | Newomics Inc. | wang@newomics.com | Berkeley, CA | Develop and commercialize advanced mass spectrometry technologies, to identify, quantify, and characterize biomolecules and biomolecular interactions in vitro and in cellular and organismal systems, with high throughput and high sensitivity. | Open to teaming possibilities. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Hakima Ibaroudene | Southwest Research Institute | hibaroudene@swri.org | San Antonio, TX | Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) is an independent, nonprofit research organization. For BIOGAMI, SwRI will lead computational work to uncover the rules of intrinsically disordered proteins and use data from partners to check and improve the models. | SwRI seeks partners with expertise in intrinsically disordered proteins, experimental validation, protein design, high-dimensional cellular data, and translational research. Ideal collaborators complement SwRI’s AI modeling by providing data, testing predictions, and connecting findings to disease-relevant systems. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Krishna Mallela | University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus | krishna.mallela@cuanschutz.edu | Aurora, CO | Biophysics, Structural Biology, Protein Structure-Function, AI/ML methods | Access to large data sets | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Eran Seger | Protai | eran@protai.bio | Tel Aviv, Israel | Protai is focusing on protein complex modeling by combining structural proteomics and AI based protein folding algorithms. We use that to accurately predict the protein complex structure and different conformations, that can be highly relevant for the understanding of formation of aggregation. | Neurodegenerative focused companies, holding good experimental models of these deceases, and looking for a strong AI and structural physics partner. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Han Xiao | RICE UNIVERSITY | han.xiao@rice.edu | Houston, TX | Our research program integrates three pillars to combat neurodegenerative diseases. First, a precision imaging platform uses genetically encoded "molecular rotors" to detect early-stage protein misfolding in live cells (NCB, 2026, 22, 97). Second, an ML system forecasts how mutations and environments impact protein aggregation. Third, an ML- based design system tailored for the targeted degradation of proteins containing specific sequences. | We are looking for teaming partners who possess established disease models or are interested in translating novel technology | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Patricia Clark | University of Notre Dame | pclark1@nd.edu | South Bend, IN | We develop novel experimental systems in the test tube and cell to assess protein folding, the dimensions of disordered protein conformational ensembles, and protein aggregation. For example, work from our lab was instrumental to resolving the “SAXS versus FRET debate” regarding the extent of collapse in disordered conformational ensembles, prior to protein folding (e.g., Riback et al. 2017, 2018, 2019). | We seek to work closely with computational scientists to develop and test predictive models. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Maria Rodriguez Martinez | Yale University | maria.rodriguezmartinez@yale.edu | New Haven, CT | The Department of Biomedical Informatics and Data Science (BIDS) at Yale School of Medicine is an interdisciplinary department advancing biomedical research through data science, machine learning, and computational modeling. BIDS integrates AI, statistics, computer science, and biomedical sciences, with strengths in computational biology, genomics and proteomics, clinical informatics, and AI-driven modeling, closely connected to Yale’s clinical and experimental research programs. | We are seeking teaming partners with complementary expertise in protein biophysics and experimental characterization of intrinsically disordered and aggregation-prone proteins, including advanced structural, biophysical, and cellular assays. Ideal partners bring capabilities in early detection of protein misfolding, novel therapeutic or modulation strategies, and/or high-throughput experimental validation. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Matt Sigmund | SIA/LBG | Msigmund@lathambiopharm.com | Elkridge, MD | Sia/LBG provides full-spectrum support for federal funding, specializing in proposal development and post-award execution. Our subject matter experts in digital health bring deep domain knowledge in areas like health IT, AI-driven diagnostics, and data interoperability. We craft compliant, compelling proposals tailored to funder priorities and guide post-award reporting, stakeholder engagement, and program delivery to ensure lasting success. | SIA/LBG is seeking to partner with organizations developing innovative, breakthrough technologies with the potential to satisfy program requirements and that are interested in engaging an experienced partner to enhance proposal development and ensure disciplined, compliant post-award program execution. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Josef Grey | Grey Theorem | Advisory@Greytheorem.com | Research Triangle Park, NC | Market Research, Economics, Life Sciences Advisory - focus in RNA Biochemistry and multivariable mathematical modeling and forecasting | Market Intelligence, Market Research, Science technical advisory | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Abigail Cember | Rhino Federated Computing | abby@rhinofcp.com | Boston, MA | Federated computing architectures enable organizations or teams of organizations to analyze large, multi-source data (‘federated analytics’) or to train machine learning models (‘federated learning’) on such data without compromising the privacy of individual datasets therein, or, if needed, of the model or calculation itself. Our R&D efforts currently focus on features related to agentic AI, retrieval-augmented generation (RAG), and (bio)chemical structure-function prediction. | We seek to support teams comprised of multiple industry partners -- or mixes of academic and industry partners -- by providing the digital infrastructure that allows for model training without giving rise to concerns over the IP attached to individual compounds or molecules. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Nataraj Pagadala | LigronBio Inc | npagadala@ligronbio.com | San Diego, CA | Targeted Molecular Glue Conjugation at β Sheet-Linked Degrons in Intrinsically Disordered Proteins/Regions (IDP/IDRs) to Reverse Protein Misfolding and Aggregation | We are seeking teaming partners with strong capabilities in experimental biology, neurodegeneration, protein biophysics, structural biology, and in‑vitro/in‑vivo validation. Ideal collaborators bring complementary wet‑lab expertise, scalable assays, disease‑relevant models, and a shared commitment to advancing transformative therapeutics. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Yuyu Song | MGH | ysong13@mgh.harvard.edu | Boston, MA | Proteostasis in neurodegeneration. Structure-function analysis of IDP in axonal degeneration. | Technician advances and methods to study IDP dynamic folding in vivo. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Adam Hott | CFD Research Corp | adam.hott@cfd-research.com | Huntsville, AL | CFD Research specializes in engineering simulations and biomedical innovations. We have advanced organ-on-a-chip platforms, PBPK/QSAR/Molecular dynamics modeling, microfluidic diagnostics, and bioinformatics. Our capabilities span high-throughput cell sorting, point-of-care testing, multi-omic sensing, and AI-driven informatics. Our labs support molecular biology, microfabrication, virology, and cell culture. | We are actively looking for both university and industry partners to round out our team. We are especially interested in organizations with strong protein structural modeling capabilities. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Shanna Ratnesar-Shumate | The Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory | shanna.ratnesar-shumate@jhuapl.edu | Laurel, MD | modeling/prediction of protein folding and binding | develop novel therapeutics | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Luke Berchowitz | Columbia University Medical Center | leb2210@cumc.columbia.edu | New York City, NY | My research focuses on the evolution and function of intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) in germline and meiotic contexts. I study how rapidly evolving IDRs encode conserved biological functions, including regulated protein assembly, translational control, and genome defense. Using yeast genetics, cross-species rescue, and sequence–function dissection, my work defines biophysical and evolutionary constraints that allow IDRs to remain flexible yet functional across deep evolutionary time. | We are seeking teaming partners with deep expertise in structural biology, particularly NMR spectroscopy, to define structure, dynamics, and assembly states of challenging protein systems. Ideal partners bring experience with disordered and partially ordered proteins, protein–protein interactions, and solution-state methods that complement genetics and cell biology, enabling rigorous structure–function analysis across physiological conditions. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Damon Wang | Nucyrna Therapeutics | damon.wang@nucyrnatx.com | Boston, MA | Nucyrna Therapeutics is developing next-generation antibody–oligonucleotide conjugates (AOCs) to bypass the blood–brain barrier, enable single- or dual-RNA targeting, and treat neurodegenerative diseases. | We are seeking partners with expertise in detecting intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) in disease models, including Huntington’s disease and additional disorders. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Kenneth Bowden | The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Lab | kenneth.bowden@jhuapl.edu | Laurel, MD | JHU APL’s RED Biology team focuses on disease/health monitoring, biothreat detection/mitigation, biomanufacturing, and operational biology. We develop high-throughput experimental assays and analytics/ML pipelines to characterize biomolecular interactions and enable early detection. These strengths translate to BIOGAMI TA1 assay/model development for IDR “grammar” and TA2 indicator/sensor concepts and validation support. | We are seeking teaming partners with in vitro and/or in vivo mammalian model capabilities (e.g., engineered cell lines, primary cells, organoids, or animal models) to enable perturbation/validation of IDR/IDP behavior, folding/aggregation phenotypes, and biomarker readouts, including access to relevant disease models and wet-lab validation capacity. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Allison Walker | Vanderbilt University | allison.s.walker@vanderbilt.edu | Nashville, TN | My lab develops AI and other computational methods to predict protein function, engineer proteins, and for drug discovery. A collaborating lab at my institution can provide in vitro characterization of aggregation dynamics. | We would like to team up with partners with expertise in in vivo studies and animal models for diseases relevant to this funding opportunity. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Advait Holkar | Praio | aholkar@praio.co | Berkeley, CA | Praio focuses on the creation and utilization of Artificial Protocells based on biomolecular condensation in vitro using diverse macromolecules for bespoke applications. We have developed high throughput methods for characterizing and quantifying biomolecular condensates and are producing Condensate Screening Panels for the frictionless testing for different use cases. | We are looking for experts in the computational modelling of IDPs with whom we can collaborate to experimentally refine folding and condensation models. We are also looking for TA2 experts who can enable intracellular delivery of the designed macromolecules to evaluate their theraputic efficacy. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Michael Craig | Kings College London | Michael.c.craig@kcl.ac.uk | London | Creation of mRNA encoded antibodies and development of lipid nanoparticles to treat disease. | Funding | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Shady Saad | Stanford University | shady.saad@gmail.com | Stanford, CA | We are creating a translational platform to treat aggregation-driven diseases by converting our recent mechanistic discoveries (Saad et al., Cell, 2025) and extensive proof-of-concept data into therapeutics. By blocking early aggregation without altering protein expression, our approach aims to enable disease-modifying cures. POC data demonstrate aggregate clearance across Huntingtin, TDP-43, Aβ42, IAPP, and FUS. | We seek partners to accelerate therapeutic modularity and delivery. While peptides have validated our POC and may represent a final therapeutic modality, we also aim to expand into small molecules, RNA, and aptamers. Partners with expertise in chemical screening, directed evolution, viral delivery, and neurodegenerative mouse models would strongly enhance program progression. We also seek collaborators in AI-based binder prediction and molecular docking to complement and scale our platform. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Rohit Pappu | Washington University in St. Louis | pappu@wustl.edu | St. Louis, MO | We are leaders in the field of IDRs. Our organization has played a central role in establishing that IDRs are defined by molecular grammars and in demonstrating that grammars help determine sub-cellular localization preferences of proteins with IDRs, the functions of IDRs, the compositional specificities of condensates, and emergent material as well as electrochemical properties of condensates. Our center for biomolecular condensates covers a range of technologies, techniques, and tools. | We might be interested in tie-ups or collaborations that we do not cover in our current portfolio or are not represented in our panel of tie-ups that we have already established. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Andrew Spielberg | Carnegie Mellon University | aespielberg@gmail.com | Pittsburgh, PA | Physical Simulation for Design, Machine Learning and Optimization-Based Inverse Design, Additive Manufacturing, Sim-To-Real Methods, Robotics | Experience in grammar induction + search; looking for people who can bring more domain expertise to complement algorithmic expertise | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Jun Park | UCLA | jop@ucla.edu | Los Angeles, CA | Brain Metabolomics, Proteomics, and Fluxomics | Industry partners and protein folding experts | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Christopher Barden | Treventis Corporation | cbarden@treventis.com | Toronto Ontario Canada | Treventis has an end-to-end discovery workflow associated with doing small molecule drug design against IDPs. We have a patented in silico approach for identifying potential pharmacophores relevant to stabilizing regions of IDP and blocking dimerization and further oligomerization. We have a program partnered with Takeda Pharmaceuticals to block the misfolding of tau and have further programs in development against beta-amyloid, TDP-43, and mutant p53 but are broadly interest in IDP drug design. | We would welcome the opportunity to partner with like-minded organizations that possess interesting HTS assays or biophysical assays looking at IDPs. Treventis has a library of novel compounds that are derived from our platform and thus enriched in anti-misfolding potential. Our molecules could be valuable tools for identifying IDP binding sites and showing anti-misfolding IDPs. We are particularly interested in partners who have models for rare and non-neuro protein misfolding diseases. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Jared Kushner | Columbia University | jsk2018@cumc.columbia.edu | n/a, NY | We specialize in animal models of heart disease. Whether through the genetic design or viral delivery of transgenes, silencers or gene editing enzymes, we routinely analyze changes in heart rhythm as well as multiple parameters of systolic and diastolic function in the heart and blood vessels in vivo and ex vivo, from the whole-organ to the level of single cells. | We will test novel binders of amyloidogenic proteins in vitro and in animal models of cardiomyopathy for any of several different amyloid disease models. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Joseph Rayman | Columbia University | jbr2114@columbia.edu | New York, NY | We are developing small molecules that selectively inhibit formation of tau oligomers, a major pathogenic species of tau that is implicated in Alzheimer’s disease and other tauopathies. | We are interested in testing our compounds in human-derived cell and tissue models. We would also like to incorporate AI-based tools for SAR studies and lead optimization. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Natalie Ma | Deep Origin | nma@deeporigin.com | South San Francisco, CA | Deep Origin builds models that provide confidence that molecules will be safe and effective in clinic, throughout drug discovery and development. Deep Origin has developed a protein dynamics engine that can model de novo structure and dynamics, which has previously been used to model intrinsically-disordered proteins. Combined with Deep Origin's proprietary safety + efficacy models for drug design and development, Deep Origin can address in silico/platform components of TA1 and TA2. | - High-throughput wetlab experiment methods to characterize IDPs, ideally with experience across multiple IDP classes. - Biological expertise on validity/therapeutic utility of targeting different IDP proteins. - Drug development expertise, particularly ex vivo, in vivo, and clinical efficacy assessment. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Bryan Ngo | Post Translational Medicines | bryan@ptmedicines.com | San Francisco and New York City, CA | Post Translational Medicines focuses on discovering and drugging structurally distinct proteoforms that arise from dysfunctional cellular states. Our tehcnology enables proteome-wide, in-cellulo identification of druggable protein states—often invisible to conventional structural biology and AI approaches—to develop restorative precision medicines for cancer, aging, and age-related diseases. | Post Translational Medicines seeks academic and industry partners with complementary strengths in biology, chemistry, computation, and translational science who share an interest in uncovering and targeting post-translationally regulated proteoforms. Ideal partners bring deep disease expertise, enabling technologies, or development capabilities, and value collaborative discovery to translate novel protein states into transformative medicines. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Sarah Sipe | Parallel Squared Technology Institute | rkrasner@parallelsq.org | Watertown, MA, USA, MA | Single cell and bulk proteomics analysis of human brain tissue samples from AD and non-AD patients using LC-MS. | Expertise in protein structure AI model builders and experts in developing therapeutic interventions useful to add to screening process. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Stephen Haggarty | Massachusetts General Hospital | shaggarty@mgh.harvard.edu | Boston, MA | We are utlizing patient-derived stem cell models to characerize proteinopathies, with a major foucs on tau as an intrinsically disordered protein. We have developed unique biochemical methods to purify endogenous oligomers and insoluble tau proteoforms along with machine learning-based methods to screen for novel chemical probes of tau proteostasis, including bifunctional PROTACs and AUTOTACs that selectively target and degrade misfolded tau species. | We are looking for complementary expertise in structural biology, machine learning, and work with post-mortem human brain material, along with additional expertise in biophysical assays. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Tyona Pike | Foresight Initiatives | ty.pike@casemanagementpatientadvocacy.org | Cookeville, TN | Foresight Initiatives is a WOSB focused on case management and patient advocacy for individuals with genetic, rare, and chronic conditions. We design and run patient‑centered support pathways, collect structured real‑world and patient‑reported data, and translate complex scientific advances into usable information for patients, caregivers, and clinicians. | We seek BIOGAMI teams leading TA1/TA2 experimental and computational work that want a partner to maximize patient and end‑user impact. We offer value in indication and cohort definition, patient and caregiver recruitment, outcomes and usability input, navigation of real‑world care settings, and commercialization/adoption strategy that aligns tools and therapeutics with actual patient needs. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Yasamin Jodat | Lagomics | yasamin@lagomics.com | San Francisco, CA | Lagomics is developing a scalable, cell-free measurement platform to generate high-quality protein interaction data for grounding and validating biological foundation models. Using barcoded, library-on-library assays, we test thousands of proteins against diverse targets in pooled experiments, producing multiplexed functional readouts of binding, specificity, and off-target effects to close the gap between structure, function, and model performance. | Lagomics is seeking teaming partners with protein foundation models or PLMs that require experimentally grounded training or evaluation data. Ideal partners include groups doing structure-to-function prediction, generative protein design, or conformational modeling, as well as wet-lab teams able to perform secondary functional assays (e.g. signaling, activity, toxicity) to benchmark and validate model predictions using our interaction datasets. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Parijat Bhatnagar | Tribe Research | xparijat@gmail.com | Belmont, CA, USA, CA | Cell engineering and manufacturing technologies | We are looking for SME with insight into disease pathology related to intrinsically disordered proteins. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Reuben Hogan | UCSF | Reuben.hogan@ucsf.edu | San Francisco, CA | My PhD work involved using glycoproteomics to reliably determine the composition of glycans that are attached to proteins. It is known that N-Glycosylation, where a glycan is attached to the Nitrogen atom of an asparagine, is used to facilitate binding of nascent proteins to chaperone proteins in the ER to ensure appropriate disulfide arrangements. My work has helped contribute to reliable analysis of glycoproteins, glycosites, and glycans. | I am a single individual with the skills to operate a mass spectrometer, prepare samples, design methods, perform data analysis, and communicate the results of research. I am looking for a team that would have access to instrumentation and lab space. I bring additional knowledge of other players in the field who can assist with mass spectrometry instrumentation, corresponding glycomic analysis, detailed glycan structure analysis, and more. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Donghoon Lee | Omphalos Lifesciences Inc | donghoon.lee@omphaloslifesci.com | Dallas, TX | We build large-scale mechanistic whole-cell models to understand biology as an integrated system. We excel at exploring large combinatorial scenario spaces that are difficult or impractical to test experimentally, enabling discovery of single and combinatorial therapeutic targets, de-risking candidate selection, and guiding experimental and preclinical development. Synthetic functions and intervention strategies are designed and tested in silico. | We seek partners who value biological rigor and close collaboration. Teams with strong experimental expertise in protein folding, IDR biology, and disease-relevant cell, organoid, or in vivo models are ideal. We value collaborators who want to pair large-scale in silico exploration with focused, high-quality experiments to accelerate translation. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Judith Steen | Harvard Medical School | judith.steen@childrens.harvard.edu | Boston, MA | Protein chemistry, large data analysis, drug screening, | medicinal chemists and therapeutic antibody developers | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Eugenia Clerico | Northwestern University | eugenia.clerico@northwestern.edu | Evanston, IL | The Proteostasis Consortium focuses on the fundamental biology of protein folding and misfolding as drivers of neurodegenerative and other protein misfolding diseases. We combine mechanistic discovery with in vitro, cellular, and organismal models, predictive modeling, and pharmacological strategies to modulate protein folding, enabling new approaches for intervention and translational development. | We seek teams with advanced AI/ML expertise to develop predictive algorithms for protein folding and misfolding. Key capabilities include training data acquisition and processing, data quality control, handling missing data, defining training/test sets, and updating models as new data become available. These skills will integrate with our experimental platforms to accelerate discovery of modulators and early detection tools. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Jeremy Linsley | Operant BioPharma | jeremylinsley@operant.bio | San Francisco, CA | Operant BioPharma uses AI-guided optogenetics to decode protein misfolding diseases. Our platform: (1) optogenetically controls IDR aggregation (tau, α-synuclein, TDP-43); (2) tracks proteostasis pathways in live cells via optical pulse labeling; (3) applies inverse biological process deep learning for drug discovery; (4)designs precision protein binders. We generate dynamic single-cell datasets revealing early disease mechanisms invisible to static approaches. | Seeking: (1) CryoEM for structural validation of IDR states and designed binders; (2) Non-neurodegenerative disease models (diabetes/amylin, cancer/p53, amyloidosis) to show platform breadth; (3) Academic IDR biology expertise. We bring commercial therapeutic development, AI-guided discovery, optogenetic aggregation control, live-cell proteostasis tracking, computational protein design, medicinal chemistry, and dynamic phenotyping capabilities. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Layla Starr | Synapticure | layla@synapticure.com | Philadelphia, PA, PA | Synapticure is a virtual 50-state specialty medical group that is the most accessible provider of ND care. We serve thousands of diverse ND patients, with many in disadvantaged communities by ADI. We collect longitudinal standardized data from our highly engaged patients under a single clinic structure, providing a valuable dataset existing primarily outside any collection today. We have run studies (e.g., 100+ ALS patient EAP with blood collection), collected samples for research, and more. | Synapticure’s core focus is clinical operations and services related to patient care. We believe we can reduce time from discovery to market by years through our offerings. We offer study capabilities, and sample collection, including patient-derived cell lines under IRB. We seek partners who can support machine learning, low-to-high throughput screening, imaging, target validation and IP development. We are eager to test drug repurposing in our population and support others developing novel IP. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Ramgopal Mettu | Tulane University | rmettu@tulane.edu | New Orleans, LA | Our group focuses on the modeling of adaptive immune response with a focus on antigen structure and conformational stability. We have shown that antigenic structure is a critical additional piece of the puzzle of predicting CD4+ T cell response, and believe it is of interest for therapeutic design. In particular we believe that for BIOGAMI, our computational methods can be the first step in a successful pipeline to identify and address immunological mechanisms initiated by disordered proteins. | Our team has strength in modeling immune response, so ideal partners would be interested in modeling aggregation with respect to downstream immune signals. We also seek partners that work on experimentally characterizing structure of specific antigens that we can work with to conduct downstream computational analyses. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Michael Dzuricky | Donaldson Company Inc | mdzuricky@gmail.com | Durham, NC | Utilizing IDPs for purification problems | Partners that have high throughput screening capabilities | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Morkos Henen | University of Colorado, School of Medicine, USA | morkos.henen@cuanschutz.edu | Denver, CO | We focus on deciphering how post-translational modifications of intrinsically disordered regions in the dynein machinery alter their functions. This understanding paves the way for insights into neurodegenerative diseases associated with mutations in this machinery. | We would like to have a partner to translate our in vitro research into cell-based assays | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Brian Kraemer | University of Washington | kraemerb@uw.edu | Seattle, WA | My group focuses on protein aggregates in neurodegeneration. Justin English will be the primary representative of our team (University of Washington Institute for Protein Design). My role is more focused on translation of IPD findings into therapeutic ideas in model systems. I would like to attend to represent the translational interests of our group while Dr. English will represent the computational and protein design interests. Dr. ENglish will submit our lightning talk proposal. | I defer to Drs. Baker and English on our groups teaming needs. I am a more junior member of the team. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Justin English | Institute for Protein Design, UW | jge1@uw.edu | Seattle, WA | The Institute for Protein Design, founded by Nobel Laureate David Baker, is the world's leading academic center in the computational modeling, design, and application of de novo proteins to advance human health. Over the past 10 years we have produced the leading models for predicting how proteins will interact with one another and their environment to resolve the processes of biology at the molecular level. Our work has resulted in the formation of dozens of companies addressing human disease. | General interest in synergistic methods to our existing approaches to resolve protein grammar. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Alvaro Velasquez | University of Colorado Boulder | alvaro.velasquez@colorado.edu | Boulder, CO | Our group has experience in formal language theory and the development and use of formal grammars and their corresponding automata representations to make AI more efficient and generalizable. | We seek expertise in the biochemistry of IDRs and IDPs. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Ewa Lis | Koliber Biosciences Inc. | elis@koliberbio.com | San Diego, CA | machine learning based modeling of peptide protein interactions | data generation platforms | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| judith frydman | Stanford University | jfrydman@stanford.edu | Stanford, CA | The Proteostasis Consortium is a group of investigators who have worked together on proteostasis in biology, health, and diseases. Together, we have contributed fundamental insights on biochemical mechanisms of protein quality control, on cellular and organismal processes, the effects of healthy and unhealthy aging, disease mechanisms, and the development of therapeutic approaches to suppress or delay diseases of protein conformation. | Complementary interests and expertise | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Wengong Jin | Northeastern University | w.jin@northeastern.edu | Boston, MA | My lab develops AI-driven framework for understanding and predicting biomolecular functions, with a particular focus on protein folding, protein-ligand binding, and protein-protein interaction. A central theme of our work is the development of autonomous AI agents that integrate machine learning, physics-based simulation, and experimental feedback to iteratively improve models of biomolecular interaction and function. | We are especially interested in collaborators with strengths in experimental characterization of protein misfolding and aggregation, including biophysical assays, structural and ensemble measurements, and cellular or in vivo models that can probe early dysfunction. We are also seeking partners with experience in experimentation of novel therapeutic modalities. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Joshua Dungan | Artificial General Intelligence LLC | admin@artificialgeneralintelligence.llc | Grand Rapids, MI | Dungan, J., & Artificial General Intelligence LLC. (2026). Computational Modeling of ALS Onset Heterogeneity: The Drusen-Zinc Switch Mechanism and Unified Sensory-Topological Control Framework (Version 1). Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18445089 | I am working solo, mostly uneducated, and I am an unpaid full time caregiver who makes around $200/wk fact checking. Oh and I have no car, no social presence (borderline agoraphobic these days) and I am doing this for free. If I had a paycheck that would allow me to do this work I love, AI powered data analysis, while still caring for Laura, that would be nice. I already went beyond ALS into other diseases, a "Crown of Life" to extend human lifespan, and more. Your science powers my ideas. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Mahdi Moqri | Harvard - Stanford | mmoqri@bwh.harvard.edu | Boston, MA | Advanced molecular dynamics and protein-folding studies using allocated high-performance computing (HPC) clusters with GPU acceleration; local installation of modeling and simulation suites; expertise in AlphaFold3, GROMACS, AMBER, etc.; collaborative projects between research groups at Stanford and Harvard. | Particiants in The Critical Assessment of Protein Intrinsic Disorder (CAID) Phase 1, 2, or 3. Expertise with ESMfold, Boltz, RoseTTAFold, OpenFold and willing to contribute their computational model to create an ensemble model | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Chandra Tucker | University of Colorado Anschutz | chandra.tucker@cuanschutz.edu | Aurora, CO | We are an academic group developing technologies for inducible control over protein assembly, including protein interactions, protein oligomerization, and biomolecular condensate formation, using light or chemical inducers. Prior work from our group includes light induced dimerizers (CRY2/CIB1), a tool for condensate formation with light (CRY2olig), approaches to form, mature, and dissolve condensates (BTBolig, DisCo, CosMo), and characterization of condensate-chaperone interactions. | Looking to join with an existing or newly forming team who may be interested in leveraging our expertise in cell-based condensate biology and synthetic tool development. Specific expertise includes yeast and mammalian cell models of condensate behavior, medium and high throughput yeast and mammalian screening platforms, cell based assays for protein misfolding and condensate formation, deep mutational scanning. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Eugene Serebryany | Stony Brook University, SUNY | eugene.serebryany@stonybrook.edu | Stony Brook, NY | Experimental mapping of IDP conformation-to-aggregation relationships in vitro via massively parallel disulfide scanning mutagenesis with tag-free single-molecule protein variant quantification. Design, production, and screening of genetically encoded linearizable cyclic peptide libraries. Single-molecule FRET. Computational mapping of IDP conformational landscapes, solvation, and assembly with statistical mechanics and accelerated molecular dynamics; proteostatic network modeling. | Cellular and in vivo models of IDP aggregation and toxicity for high-throughput conformation-to-phenotype mapping, especially models that permit disulfide or other site-directed protein crosslinking. Generation of custom software tools for mass spectrometry. Design, development, and commercialization of indicators and therapeutics. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| JESUS DELGADO | ARQUIMEA USA | jdelgado@arquimea.com | Pasadena, CA | Our work focuses on small molecules designed to restore cellular balance by regulating key kinases involved in TDP-43 homeostasis. The abnormal accumulation of TDP-43 in motor neurons is a major driver of neurodegeneration in ALS and plays a key role in AD/ADRD. Our lead candidates have shown potential not only to alleviate symptoms but also to reverse cellular dysfunction. Our first lead candidate will enter clinical trials in Q2 2026 funded by the ALS Association. | We have an advanced therapeutic program targeting TDP-43 pathologies, decades of experience in medicinal chemistry for neurodegenerative diseases, and a team developing novel ML approaches for evaluating drug-protein interactions. We want to partner with teams that can complement and leverage these capabilities. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Mathew Barnett | UbiquiTx | mathew.barnett02@gmail.com | Cambridge, MA | UbiquiTx pioneers Programmable Protein Editing using AI-designed guide peptides that bind aggregation-prone IDPs. Our functional molecules recruit disease-linked proteins to cellular machinery, driving degradation, stabilization, or relocalization. High-throughput screening tests thousands of designs simultaneously, providing an engine to diagnose the molecular cause of protein disorders and deliver programmable solutions that halt disease progression. | We seek partners with expertise in: (1) IDP aggregation kinetics and structural characterization, (2) neurodegenerative disease models and biomarker validation, (3) CNS delivery optimization, or (4) clinical translation experience in protein misfolding disorders. Our platform contributes AI-guided binder design and high-throughput functional screening; we value partners who strengthen mechanistic understanding or accelerate clinical development. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| David Nelles | Tacit Therapeutics, Inc. | dnelles@tacittx.com | San Francisco, CA, CA | Tacit Tx has built an RNA repair technology that can replace thousands of RNA bases without modifying DNA. This trans-splicing tech can function as a TA2 “modulator modality” by precisely rewriting IDR/proteoform sequences to prevent or reverse aggregation while preserving function or enabling early indicators of disease. We have proven the activity of trans-splicing in the brain of animal models and can generate new trans-splicing systems in weeks. | Seeking partners: (1) IDR/IDP “grammar” ML/modeling team (TA1), (2) high-throughput condensate/aggregation screening lab, (3) biomarker/indicator + human biobank/autopsy access, (4) commercial partner (biotech/pharma/diagnostics) w/ LOI. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Sun Young Lee | University of Southern California | sunyoung.lee@med.usc.edu | Los Angeles, CA | Our work focuses on high-resolution spatial-omics of the human retina, integrating transcriptomic, epigenomic, and proteomic architecture with AI-driven analytical models. We aim to map region-specific aging, disease vulnerability, and cellular interactions to enable mechanism-based therapeutic discovery. | We seek partners with technical expertise in cutting-edge spatial proteomics and lipidomics, with the ability to integrate structural information with high-resolution spatial-omics data. Ideal collaborators can help connect molecular architecture to spatial context and support advanced analytical and translational applications. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Gabriel Lopez | Synvivia | glopez@synvivia.com | Emeryville, CA | Synvivia engineers molecules to chemically reprogram cells by modulating specific molecular targets or via phenotypic discovery. We have expertise in everything from high throughput library creation, functional analysis, tissue/viral engineering, ML/AI. | While we have capabilities well suited for both TA1 and TA2, our comparative advantage is in TA2. We are potentially interested in partnering in teams with expertise in TA1. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Jimmy Zhang | Netrias, LLC. | jzhang@netrias.com | Annapolis, MD | Netrias develops AI-driven data integration and modeling platforms that operate in sparse, noisy, multi-scale environments characteristic of IDPs/IDRs. Through DARPA’s ICE program, we used our platform to rapidly curate one of the largest datasets for the program's modeling needs. We then built a model to predict sequence to function relationships >90% accuracy. We will use this system to support BIOGAMI TA1 grammar discovery and TA2 intervention prioritization. | We seek collaborators with experimental, translational, and therapeutic development capabilities to pair with our computational and data integration expertise. Priorities include high-throughput platforms for protein folding, aggregation, and/or conformational ensembles (TA1), as well as translational and disease-area expertise in neurodegenerative and chronic protein dysfunction disorders, including drug discovery, biologics engineering, or biomarker validation (TA2). | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Anuj Guru | Nanil Therapeutics Inc. | anuj@naniltx.com | Toronto, Canada | AI Systems for CNS Therapeutics | Teams with wet lab capabilities | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Joseph Klim | Aquinnah Pharma | jklim@aquinnahpharma.com | Boston, MA | Aquinnah Pharmaceuticals develops orally bioavailable small-molecule therapies that modulate pathological biomolecular condensate-induced protein aggregation in neurodegenerative disease. Our research advances structure–activity–guided compounds from in vitro discovery into in vivo mouse models, with a focus on preventing aberrant phase separation and aggregation upstream of irreversible neuronal toxicity for Tau and TDP-43. | Aquinnah is seeking teaming partners with computational or experimental expertise in modeling intrinsically disordered proteins, characterizing protein–protein interactions and aggregation, and medicinal chemistry to support compound optimization. Aquinnah will contribute disease-relevant cell and mouse models and tool compounds to enable mechanistic studies, in vivo validation, and integrated, consortium-based collaboration. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| John Kirwan | Arquimea Research Centre | jkirwan@arquimea.com | Santa Cruz de Tenerife | ARC focuses on deep-tech solutions in biotech, AI, robotics, and quantum engineering. Within biotech, research by ARC incorporates development of novel drugs and biosensors, with a breadth of experience in oncology and rare disease research. Our biotech team collaborates with each of our other units, most notably with AI to complement our experimental work: This has included multi-objective lead identification, peptidomimetic design, and synthetic data generation. | At ARC, we bring broad expertise across the drug development pipeline, from early discovery to translational stages. We bridge laboratory biochemistry and advanced deep learning to accelerate innovation. We seek partners with proven experience in developing and scaling foundational models capable of enabling high-impact applications in drug discovery and biomedical research. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Lisa-Marie Ramirez | brainQr Therapeutics GmbH | info@brainqrtherapeutics.com | Göttingen, Germany | brainQr Therapeutics is a neuroscience biotech developing disease-modifying therapies for neurodegenerative disorders driven by intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs), including Tau, TDP-43, & α-Syn. Using NMR, biophysics & AI ensemble modeling, we decode IDP grammar, with a focus on how sequence, PTMs & phase behavior control misfolding and aggregation. We develop small-molecules stabilizing native states. Our lead Tau program has shown preclinical proof in Alzheimer’s and other tauopathies. | Academic groups, startups & industry partners with complementary capabilities in • Experimental or computational approaches to IDR sequence–structure–function relationships • Biosensors or assays for IDP conformational states, phase separation, or aggregation • Oligonucleotide-, peptide-, or aptamer-based tools to modulate or probe IDPs • Advanced imaging, biophysical, or single-molecule methods applicable to IDPs • Novel delivery technologies relevant to CNS or intracellular protein modulation | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Chuankai (Kai) Zhou | Buck Institute | kzhou@buckinstitute.org | Novato, CA | The Buck Institute is focused solely on the biology of aging, with a goal of increasing "healthspan" (living healthier, longer) rather than just lifespan. Researchers investigate the mechanisms of aging, chronic diseases, metabolism, and epigenetics to prevent age-related illnesses. | We would be interested in working with partners who have experimental capabilities specifically exploring IDRs, via various technologies. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Jagannath Swaminathan | Erisyon Inc | jagannath@erisyon.com | Austin, TX | Development of covalent chemical labels of phosphorylation, tyrosine, lysine, acidic residues, nitrosylation and C-terminal regions of proteins; Peptide sequencing and readout system by single molecule imaging and/or mass-spectrometry | Therapeutic partners for small molecule and peptide modulators | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Jesse Dill | Ginkgo Bioworks | jdill@ginkgobioworks.com | Boston, MA | Ginkgo operates as a CRO supporting high-throughput method development and application for protein expression and biophysical / functional profiling, as well as for multimodal analysis of cell perturbations (e.g. linked cell-painting and transcriptomic readouts). | We are looking to support a teaming partner with expertise in biophysical model development, as well as drug discovery for modulating IDRs | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Paul Worley | Johns Hopkins School of Medicine | pworley@jhmi.edu | Baltimore Maryland, MD | The Worley-Zhang collaboration at Johns Hopkins has identified molecular scaffolding mechanisms that mediate fibrillar transformation of Tau, TDP-43 and ANXA11 that are mediated by specific E3 ligases. Fibrillar transformation occurs within liquid phase condensates and be reconstituted in vitro using purified recombinant proteins. Our goal is to define the ubiquitin code and protein interaction surfaces that mediate target fibrillation. | We would like to collaborate with a group expert in methods to quantify physical interactions in small samples such as microscope thermophoresis (MST) and Bio-layer interferometry (BLI) and that can assist in modeling dynamics. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Jesus Delgado Alonso | Molefy LLC | jdelgado@molefypharma.com | Pasadena, CA | We develop disease-modifying therapies for neurodegenerative diseases to halt progression and restore patients’ quality of life. Our team has led multiple projects (some of them in clinical phases) and has +200 publications in medicinal chemistry and rational drug design for Alzheimer and Parkinson's disease, MS, FTD, and ALS. We create brain-penetrant small molecules targeting IDP proteinopathies and have shown protein homeostasis plus motor and cognitive recovery in cellular and animal models. | We can contribute to TA2 on tasks 6, 7 and 9, developing selective, brain-penetrans, small molecules for NDs and completing in vivo studies demonstrating target engagement and protein homeostasis restoration in vivo. As part of our therapeutic projects, we have gained significant experience in detecting and quantifying IDP proteinopathies in tissue and blood-based samples. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Carol Hall | North Carolina State University | hall@ncsu.edu | Raleigh, NC | We do computational design of peptides to interfere with protein fibrillation. Right now we are trying to discover peptides that will block the aggregation of alpha synuclein, the Parkinson's disease protein. Such peptides might also serve as markers of fibrillation. We are also trying to learn if and how micro/nanoplastics impact protein aggregation/ fibrillation. We are interested in other diseases as well. | As our work is computational; we would be interested in collaboration with experimental groups. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Eric Jones | Octant, Inc. | eric@octant.bio | Emeryville, CA | Octant is a small molecule corrector company. We do what Vertex did in cystic fibrosis (correcting mutations in CFTR), to many more diseases with a high throughput biology and chemistry platform. We use automation and AI to evolve and engineer small molecules that correct misfolded proteins. Our lead program is an oral small molecule for Rhodopsin for treatment of retinitis pigmentosa is now in the clinic. We have several other programs in rare disease, cancer, and neurodegeneration. | We are looking for partners that can take datasets we produce to help (1) train foundation models for IDR function, and (2) help drive Octant's lab in the loop capabilities using agentic workflows to build new drugs against these disease | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Adam Knapp | Quantinuum | adam.knapp@quantinuum.com | Broomfield, CO | We are working to use quantum computing for pharma purposes. | We are exploring possibilities for quantum computing in the pharma space and are interested in developing partnerships when appropriate. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Lenny Moise | SeromYx Systems | lenny.moise@seromyx.com | Woburn, MA | SeromYx uses a systems approach to link antigen-specific antibody effector functions to clinical outcomes using a broad repertoire of high throughput assays and machine learning. Our assay platform is applied across infectious disease, autoimmunity, neurodegeneration, and cancer and supports the full discovery and drug development continuum. It enables identification of immune markers that track disease progression, protection, and resolution. | SeromYx seeks partners with expertise in neurodegenerative diseases, interest in immune markers of disease severity, access to well-characterized clinical (and preclinical) sample sets, and capabilities in drug development. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Jiwu Wang | The Scintillon Institute | jiwuwang@scintillon.org | San Diego, CA | Our efficient in vitro phase transition system is enabled by producing soluble, full-length recombinant IDPs (e.g., TDP-43) that are otherwise difficult to produce/maintain. These proteins can be reliably induced to undergo controlled phase transitions, permitting systematic studies of sequence-based "molecular grammar", surface-charge changes to conditions (e.g., salt, pH), and PTMs (e.g., phosphorylation, nitrosylation). We validate it with in cell and in vivo assays to test modulators. | We seek team members or partners who can co develop or share improved phase transition measurement methods and equipment. We are also interested in combining our AI/ML capabilities with complementary expertise to further strengthen predictive performance. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Bryan Dickinson | University of Chicago | bryan.dickinson@gmail.com | Chicago, IL | My research group has established rapid screening platforms for discoverong binders (based on mini proteins, peptides, and macrocycles) that bind targets of interest. We can multiplex billion+ member screens. Recently, we demonstrated the ability of this technology to screen for binders to disordered peptides and proteins. This platform can be used to fuel ML-based predictions, to map functional elements of the disordered proteome, and to develop clinical candidates targeting disordered proteins | We can generate large datasets and diverse molecules that bind disordered proteins. We are looking to team with people who can leverage the datasets and to test the molecules in disease models | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Richard Vachet | University of Massachusetts Amherst | vachet@umass.edu | N/A, MA | (1) Experimental and computational methods to characterize the conformational ensembles of IDPs and proteins with IDRs. (2) High-throughput drug screening assay design and implementation. | (1) Cell biology expertise; (2) in vivo/organoid models | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Michael Lee | University of Minnesota | mklee@umn.edu | Minneapolis, MN | We are established experts in studies of neurodegenerative diseases, particulary the late onset diseases associated with protein aggregation. Our current focus is on diseases associated with alpha-synuclein and/or tau aggregation. We have been active in defining cellular pathways that modulate protein aggregation and we have applied these to show therapeutic efficacy in preclinical models. | We are interested in partnering with groups with potential ideas for detection of early protein aggregates and possible pathways. We can use our expertise to validate the presence of the early protein aggregates in cells and in tissue, and manipulate the involved pathways to block the progression of protein aggregation. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Huiwang Ai | University of Virginia | huiwang.ai@virginia.edu | Charlottesville, VA | protein engineering, designing, sensors and organoid brain models | AI, protein language models | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Emma SIERECKI | UNSW | e.sierecki@unsw.edu.au | SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA | Our laboratory investigates the mechanisms of protein aggregation and biomolecular condensate formation, with a focus on early nucleation and phase transition kinetics. We develop single-particle fluorescence and kinetic assays to monitor phase separation and aggregation in real time, and have established quantitative counting methods to measure and fingerprint protein aggregates in CSF and blood for sensitive detection of disease-relevant species. | We seek collaborators in computational modeling to integrate kinetic and single-particle datasets into predictive frameworks of IDR phase behavior and aggregation. For TA2, we aim to partner with groups advancing therapeutic interventions and clinical translation, contributing biomarker discovery, assay development, and quantitative measurement of aggregation signatures in human biosamples. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Matthew Lawrence | Virscio | mlawrence@virscio.com | New Haven, CT | Virscio applies in vitro and nonhuman primate modeling, enabled by medical imaging, histomolecular, multiomic, and in-life cognitive and neuromotor techniques to establish predictive test systems to screen candidates for neurodegenerative diseases. We validated endpoints with strong established clinical correlates, define new translational biomarkers, and apply each to robust interrogation of disease pathophysiology and the tissue pharmacodynamics of novel interventions. | Virscio is looking to expand on existing partnerships to harness in silico and molecular tools, enabled by machine learning, to accelerate the development of the most predictive possible in vitro and in vivo neurodegenerative models that are both time and animal resource efficient. We seek to iteratively modulate pathways to confirm key mediators of proteostasis and protein aggregation to both confirm targets and screen candidate interventions. All capabilities are in place for in vivo testing. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Helgi Ingolfsson | Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory | ingolfsson1@llnl.gov | LLNL is a multidisciplinary research institution with expertise highly relevant to BIOGAMI, including novel imaging, ML‑driven automation, and protein modeling. We develop foundation models for protein structure and protein‑protein interactions that can be adapted for IDPs, and leverage IDPs for biomaterial design and understanding neurodegenerative disease. Our projects combine multiscale simulations with experiments to train ML models that guide IDP design. | We are open to joining larger teams and to helping establish new collaborative efforts. We are particularly interested in partnering with experts in neurodegenerative diseases, especially those with clinical experience, as well as ML and modeling teams with complementary and unique skill sets. | ||
| Susan Tsutakawa | Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory | setsutakawa@lbl.gov | Berkeley, CA | Berkeley Lab supports ARPAH through unique synchrotron facilities (Advanced Light Source), microscopy, imaging, spectroscopy, competencies in cell and animal models, data architectures and analytics, cell, tissue, and patient screening facilities. Our seminal work in neurodegenerative diseases and psychological sciences (e.g. Alzheimer's, Parkinson's) uniquely positions us to provide support, and test and validation resources. | We are exploring how we can support or provide test and validation resources. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Gabriella Heller | Bind Research | gabi@bindresearch.org | Apex, 1 Tribeca Walk, London, United Kingdom, NW1 0QE | Bind Research is a UK not-for-profit Focused Research Organisation (FRO) pioneering drug discovery for intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs). We combine advanced NMR/biophysics, high-throughput screening, & AI/ML to deliver potential drugs & tools, including those that modulate IDP folding & aggregation—critical mechanisms in neurodegeneration. We're building rich IDP-ligand datasets to fuel AI models & create open-access tools to accelerate therapeutic development for 'undruggable' targets. | Bind has a unique multidisciplinary team identifying molecules that modulate IDP self-association and aggregation, and decoding their mechanistic activity in vitro, in silico, and in cell. We seek partners with: (1) advanced detection technologies for biomolecular condensates or early-stage protein misfolding in living cells to validate effects on root cause pathology; (2) robust mechanistic cellular/animal models of neurodegenerative disease; (3) clinical translation expertise. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Sagar Khare | Rutgers University | khare@chem.rutgers.edu | Piscataway, NJ | We are developing AI-based protein design technology for sequence-specific binders of C-terminal segments of proteins, a large majority of which are intrinsically disordered. We have found that these binders can inhibit aggregation in vitro. | We are looking to partner with colleagues/entities who have cell biology, advanced imaging and -omics expertise. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Donald Johann | University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences | don.johann@gmail.com | University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, AR | Developing more effective Rx and MolDx for patients with cancer. The characterization of genetic-based alterations in model systems and bio-liquids using advanced molecular profiling and high-throughput technologies. Areas of emphasis include: drug development utilizing model systems, bioinformatics, advanced molecular profiling (NGS, mass spec-based proteomics), & advanced tissue microdissection (eg, LCM) to explore spatiotemporal regulation of proteins and nucleic acids. | Productive collaboration. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Olaf Piepenburg | PartitionBio | o.piepenburg@partitionbio.co.uk | Cambridge, UK; CB22 3FW | We generate biomolecular condensates (BMCs) using libraries of proteins and peptidomimetic polymers. We focus on decoding how polymer sequence composition directs BMC formation and co-assembly with molecular cargos, as well as on BMC uptake by mammalian cells and their intracellular behaviours (trafficking, dissolution, engagement with endogenous phase environments). Our platform is set to enable novel drug delivery modalities. We are modelling the transition states of BMC-forming peptides. | PartitionBio’s core expertise lies in the design and generation of intrinsically disordered proteins and peptides, and in their characterisation using complementary biological and biophysical assay systems. To fully exploit the large and complex datasets anticipated in this project, we recognise the critical importance of advanced AI/ML approaches. We therefore seek partners with strong computational expertise to address these challenges and enable data-driven insight and optimisation. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Diego Restrepo | Stony Brook University | diego.restrepo@stonybrook.edu | Stony Brook, NY | Interactomics of IDP aggregation and propagation. Our approach is to apply laser capture microdissection combined with ultrasensitive mass spectrometry and high-resolution RNA profiling to identify IDP-associated peptides and RNAs from postmortem human brain tissue from cases of neurodegenerative and non-neurodegenerative disease. We evaluate the functional significance of candidate IDP-interacting molecules using in vitro and in vivo models. | - Interaction with groups studying conformation-to-aggregation and interactomics of IDPs using both experimental and artificial intelligence approaches -Interaction with industry for efficient drug screening of therapeutic modification of IDP conformation and interactions. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Layla Starr | Synapticure | layla@synapticure.com | Philadelphia, PA | Synapticure is a 50-state virtual specialty medical group delivering accessible care for neurodegenerative disease (ND). We serve thousands of diverse patients, including many from disadvantaged communities (ADI-defined), and collect longitudinal standardized data within a unified clinical model. We conduct prospective studies (e.g., 100+ ALS EAP with blood collection) and support biospecimen-based translational research. | Synapticure combines a national ND clinical network with advanced in-house R&D, including patient-derived 3D cell models for translational discovery and therapeutic testing. We generate longitudinal data and IRB-approved biospecimens linked to experimental systems. We seek partners in ML, high-content screening, imaging, target validation, and novel therapeutic/IP development. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Krishna Mallela | University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus | krishna.mallela@cuanschutz.edu | Aurora, CO | Our goal is to define how IDRs in dystrophin trigger non-rare Duchenne muscular dystrophy and a rare brain-specific Dp71 neurodegenerative dystrophinopathy. We will first determine how IDRs regulate dystrophin structure and function (TA1), and we will test whether targeting IDRs can prevent dystrophin misfolding and enable therapy (TA2). Our expertise includes protein biophysics, structural analysis, and cellular models, and we seek collaborations in human disease models. | Animal disease models; large IDR data sets; complex protein expression and purification; skeletal muscle tissues | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Sona Hosseini | Jet Propulsion Laboratory - California Institute of Technology | sona.hosseini@jpl.nasa.gov | Pasaedna, CA | We develop miniaturized, high-sensitivity Raman spectrometers for label-free detection of early protein misfolding and aggregation signatures. Our systems enable in vivo and ex vivo structural monitoring under environmental perturbations, generating quantitative molecular fingerprints aligned with BIOGAMI’s goal of detecting and modulating early protein dysfunction. | We seek TA2-aligned partners with wet-lab expertise in protein misfolding and aggregation biology (cellular and biochemical models) and AI/ML capabilities to decode protein grammar, integrate spectroscopic and multi-omics datasets, and experimentally validate interventions that modulate early dysfunction before pathological aggregation. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Shuxing Zhang | University of Hawaii Cancer Center | shuxing@hawaii.edu | Honolulu, HI | AI-based therapeutics discovery, macromolecule (proteins, DNAs and RNAs) structure-function studies, multimodal and multiscale modeling | experimental detection and studies of IDPs and protein folding relavant to neurodegerative diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer's and SBMA. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Christina Chatzi | M34, Inc. | cchatzi@m34thx.com | Chapel Hill, NC | M34 Inc. pioneers CNS gene therapies for neurodegenerative diseases using next-generation rAAV vectors engineered and selected directly in humans via our Human-to-Human (H2H) platform, enabling human-optimized biodistribution and reduced translational risk. Our lead focus is in vivo, in situ glia-to-neuron transdifferentiation in the brain and spinal cord—delivering neural reprogramming factors plus trophic support to regenerate neurons and drive durable neural repair. | We seek partners to complement our CNS gene therapy and in vivo delivery strengths with expertise in protein biophysics and AI/MLmodelling of protein grammar. Ideal collaboratos include (1) structural biology teams to map intrinsically disordered regions and aggreagtion aothways with quantitative assays, and (2) computational groups to build predictive and generative models of IDR/IDP behavior and design gramma-rewritting effectors compatible with in our human optimized platform. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Ryan Place | Manhattan Neuroscience | ryan@manhattanneuro.ai | Los Alamos, NM | Manhattan Neuroscience develops precision strategies to modulate protein misfolding and dysregulated proteostasis in neurological disease. We integrate computational modeling, molecular neurobiology, and translational systems to identify controllable regulatory domains and intervention points that restore neuronal function and improve measurable clinical outcomes. | We seek collaborators with expertise in intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs), protein engineering, structural biology, high-throughput screening, and scalable delivery platforms. Ideal partners provide experimental validation, modulation technologies, and translational infrastructure to enable therapeutic control of protein folding in human-relevant systems. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Sergei Oleshkevich | Oncohelper AI Inc. | info@oncohelperai.org | Manning, SC | OncoHelper AI is a nonprofit research unit building testable, quantitative programs in protein misfolding, phase separation, and aggregation. For BIOGAMI, we aim to define the molecular grammar of intrinsically disordered proteins and demonstrate controllable state transitions using clear biophysical and cell-based endpoints. | Our team already includes international wet-lab capacity in protein chemistry and early IDP modulation experiments. We seek additional partners to expand assay depth and speed: quantitative phase separation and aggregation measurements, biophysical or structural readouts, and rapid cell-based validation. We also welcome chemical biology or medicinal chemistry collaborators to accelerate iterative modulator design. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Anne Messer | NeuralStem Cell Inst | annemesser@neuralsci.org | Albany, NY | We (Anne Messer, David Butler) have extensive expertise in intrabody engineering to modulate the initial misfolding of huntingtin, alpha-synuclein, and Tau, increase intracellular solubility, and use fusions to add functionality in a presence of unfavorable long-term kinetics. Assays using human neurons and human brain organoids derived from patients and differentiated into specific brain regions are being used for functional and safety testing. (Sally Temple) | We seek collaborators to both generate new candidates and utilize molecular data to further understand the underlying mechanisms of the misfolding, particularly in the context of the cellular milieu. Novel and existing intrabodies can also serve as drug discovery tools. Moving the control of intracellular protein folding into the clinic will be a critical component with future partners. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Arvind Ramanathan | University of Chicago | ramanathana@anl.gov | Chicago, IL | Autonomous laboratories, high-throughput experimentation, agentic systems. | Working with collaborators and developing new AI-guided techniques to understand IDP/ IDR grammars | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| S. Banu Ozkan | Arizona State University | banu.ozkan@asu.edu | Phoenix, AZ | Statistical Modeling of IDP Dynamics and building physics integrated AI models to predict function and disease states. | An experimentalist skilled in designing and performing assays to generate rigorous, quantitative data on aggregation-prone sequences, enabling detailed characterization of their biophysical behavior. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Kingshuk Ghosh | University of Denver | kingshuk.ghosh@du.edu | Denver, CO | Statistical-Physics modeling of conformation, dynamics and function of disordered proteins (IDPs and denatured states of folded proteins). We integrate mathematical theory, simulation, machine learning and experiment to generate sequence dependent models of IDPs. These physics-based machine learning (ML) models nearly as accurate as simulation but with throughput comparable to ML but can do more than ML such as incorporate missing physics, model fluctuations etc. | We are looking for experimentalists who can make high throughput measurements of IDP conformation, function. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Rachel Letteri | University of Virginia | rl2qm@virginia.edu | Charlottesville, VA | My research group aims to combine and advance synthetic polymer- and peptide-based materials, with one area of focus being therapeutics designed to break up protein aggregates implicated in Alzheimer's and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. We bring expertise in design, synthesis, and molecular characterization of these materials, as well as in characterizing proteolytic stability. A relevant core technology is leveraging specific interactions between opposite handed peptides to bind proteins. | Specializing mainly in synthesis and molecular characterization, we would welcome and value partners who examine consequences of these treatments in cells and on the immune system. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Stefan Bossmann | The University of Kansas Medical Center | sbossmann@kumc.edu | Kansas City, KS | AI modeling of cell-size molecular systems over extended timescales to predict IDR structural ensembles, interpretable ML models for designing peptides that mimic IDP functions at target interfaces. Our computational capabilities are coupled with experimental infrastructure, including FACS-based cell systems, animal models, preclinical imaging, enabling mechanistic validation of IDR conformational dynamics in physiologically relevant contexts, and translational drug discovery expertise. | Our protein-agnostic team provides enabling capabilities across both TA1 and TA2, supporting discovery, validation, and translational advancement irrespective of specific molecular targets. The University of Kansas actively pursues consortium-based partnerships with industry, biotechnology, and academic collaborators. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Courtney Chambers | Portal Biotechnologies | courtney@portal.bio | Boston, MA, MA | Portal’s mechanoporation technology is a simple diffusion-based cell delivery system that can enable the intracellular delivery of impermeable probes, peptides, proteins, or other materials capable of detecting and/or modulating IDRs in cells. Our delivery technology offers flexibility and scalability for identifying probes that detect the target of interest in the complex cell environment before coupling with suitable in vivo delivery vehicle. | Seeking collaborators with novel probes or interaction modules for IDRs who would benefit from a simple and streamlined way to get these materials into cells for research or high-throughput screening. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Judith Klein-Seetharaman | Arizona State University | Jkleinse@asu.edu | Phoenix, AZ | computational biology; protein structure and dynamics; rare diseases; Alzheimer's disease; quantum computing; integrating structural biology with systems biology | high throughput testing of hypotheses; clinical relevance | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Rachel Spurbeck | Battelle | spurbeck@battelle.org | Columbus, OH | Battelle and our partners have a biobank of iPSCs from healthy people and those with Parkinson's Disease and other diseases due to misfolding IDPs. We will utilizing this biobank and established cell differentiation protocols to develop cell and organoid models for understanding mechanisms and environmental triggers leading to IDP misfolding and aggregation, development of high throughput screens and diagnostic assays for early detection, and testing of therapeutics to prevent and treat disease. | We are looking for teaming partners with AI modeling skills in protein folding of IDPs to complement our wet lab models. We are also interested in commercialization partners for the therapeutics and diagnostics developed from our pipeline. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Ekram Towsif | Pico Labs Incorperated | etowsif@emory.edu | Atlanta, GA | Pico Labs is currently focusing on detection methods of genetic pathogens. Our organization works to develop novel techniques to address high-risk problems through innovative energy independence solutions. We work on molecular disorders and aim to identify and potentially run targeted drug therapies. We are currently focusing our energy on detecting the early onset of protein degeneration and aggregation. We have been working on Parkinson's disease and the misfolding of alpha synuclein. | We are looking for partners organization who have similar expertise but bring different perspectives. Our team consists of PhD level physisits, biochemists, chemists, microbiologists, and medical doctors. We aim to find teams with specializations in neurobiology, genetics, and immunology. Having a diverse team of scientists from different expertise would enable us to tackle these neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's from multiple perspectives in the hopes of making a breakthrough. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Meng-meng Fu | University of California, Berkeley | mengmengfu@berkeley.edu | Berkeley, CA | My lab works on IDP proteins in the context of primary brain cell culture and neurodegenerative disease. Our team members (3) include expertise in protein biology and structure, AI/machine learning/big data, and neuroscience (myself). | We're open to joining existing teams or adding members. We hope to learn more about the program and team size at the virtual event. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Daniel Schabacker | Argonne National Laboratory | dschabacker@anl.gov | 9700 South Cass Ave., Lemont, IL 60439, IL | IDR discovery with agentic, closed-loop "design-build-test-learn" workflows that couple computation and experiments. Leadership-scale computing enables ensemble modeling, generative AI design, and high-throughput analysis. Integrative structural biology at the APS provides multi-modal characterization of dynamic IDR states and complexes. A self-driving lab loop (RL/diffusion + simulations) runs standardized binding/functional assays to map transient IDR sites and iteratively optimize ligands. | Argonne has deep IDP/IDR experience and can support BIOGAMI performers as a government enabler via unique user-facility resources and expertise. Argonne’s IDR platform couples AI ensemble modeling with SAXS/NMR/cryo-EM/crystallography and compute refinement to characterize dynamic states, then links to standardized binding/functional assays to generate shareable datasets for faster optimization. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Glenn Harris | Rainwater Charitable Foundation | GHARRIS@RAINWATERCF.ORG | Fort Worth, TX | Primary tauopathies | Open to all interests | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Michael Wagner | Battelle Memorial Institute | wagnermr@battelle.org | Columbus, OH | Battelle Memorial Institute is the world's largest independent non-profit CRO; as such, the Institute's research focus areas are broad. However, focus areas specific to this opportunity include: 4) 1.) Multi-omic profiling of biological signatures of various exposures 5) 2.) Diagnostic, therapeutic, and medical countermeasure development for neurodegenerative and neurotoxic conditions. | Battelle is seeking partnerships primarily for computational model development. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Shu-Bing Qian | Cornell University | sq38@cornell.edu | Ithaca, NY | My laboratory focuses on ribosome dynamics during mRNA translation. Using high resolution ribosome profiling, we recently discovered ribosome decoding memory that contributes the synthesis of physiological and pathological amino acid repeats. Disrupting the decoding memory of CAG repeats is beneficial in reducing polyglutamine synthesis and aggregation. Our goal is to steer ribosome to rewrite nucleotide “grammar” in protein synthesis to stop neurodegenerative disease (Nat Biotech 2025). | We are seeking partners from both academia and industry with expertise in neurodegenerative animal models, AI/ML for sequence prediction, RNA engineering and CNS delivery, biosensors or assays for IDP biology, advanced imaging relevant to intracellular protein modulation, etc. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Raquel Dias | University of Florida | raquel.dias@ufl.edu | Gainesville, FL | AI-driven genomics and structural biology, with focus on deep learning for genomic imputation and complex trait mapping, protein–ligand and protein structural modeling, and AI-powered prediction/validation of tau (MAPT) mutations affecting folding, stability, and aggregation in Alzheimer’s disease and tauopathies. | Seeking collaborators who complement our AI, genomics, and structural biology strengths with: wet-lab high-throughput screening, protein engineering and synthetic biology, disease model systems, translational and clinical expertise, scalable platform engineering, and experience with ARPA-H style milestones and multi-party teaming structures. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Peter Koulen | UMKC | koulenp@umkc.edu | Kansas City, MO | Our research focuses on basic research on and therapy development for chronic diseases of the eye and brain using biophysics, biochemistry and physiology approaches. Our research technologies include optical imaging, electrophysiology and biochemistry to elucidate mechanisms underlying basic physiology and pathophysiological processes at the molecular, cell and system levels. | artificial intelligence models high-throughput assays imaging proteins at the single-molecule level molecular modeling | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Joshua Gil | Signature Science, LLC. | jgil@signaturescience.com | Charlottesville, VA | Signature Science, LLC offers biology and bioinformatics expertise in curating protein functions (e.g., development of standardized ontologies and “grammar” for pathogenic protein functions in (Godbold et al. 2022), ML to predict protein functions in (Balaji et al. 2022), government contract management experience, and biology (BSL-2) R&D labs. Our lab capabilities include analyses with GC/MS, LC/MS, and LC/HRMS systems and spectroscopic instruments for ground truth evaluation of test samples. | As we offer bioinformatics, protein functional biocuration, and biology expertise and laboratory support capabilities for TA 1, we are primarily seeking to join a team with strong TA 2 capabilities. For TA 1, we are also interested in identifying partners with relevant datasets for BIOGAMI and advanced AI protein modeling and protein dynamic prediction expertise. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Robin Smith | Wonderlab Bio | robin@wonderlab.bio | Boston, MA | Wonderlab Bio operates the world's largest HLA-matched iPSC bank (85K+ samples, 65+ super donors, >90% US coverage) with hundreds of Parkinson's patient samples including family cohorts. Our iPSC-to-neuron platform recapitulates alpha-synuclein aggregation pathology in long-term culture, enabling screening of IDP folding modulators. We seek collaborators to partner with as a subcontractor. | We seek partners with computational expertise in IDR/IDP structural prediction, AI/ML-driven molecular dynamics, and high-throughput biophysics (NMR, cryoEM, smFRET). Our iPSC bank and neuron disease models complement teams needing scalable cell-based validation platforms for alpha-synuclein and/or other aggregation-prone proteins. Ideal partners bring drug discovery capabilities for novel protein folding modulators and biomarker development experience for FDA qualification pathways. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Ram Lalgudi | Aries Science and Technology, LLC | lalgudir@ariesst.com | Columbus, OH | Aries develops patented nano‑lipid delivery technologies, including the NLC platform licensed to Totec Pharma for enhanced penetration, stability, and controlled release of actives such as encapsulated CBD for radiation dermatitis. Aries also advances a BBB‑penetrant small‑molecule library for CNS and IDP‑modulation applications. | Aries seeks partners in IDP biology, CNS models, and computational or biophysical platforms who can leverage our nano‑delivery technologies and BBB‑penetrant small‑molecule library. We aim to co‑develop enhanced‑delivery therapeutics requiring improved stability, PK/PD, tissue targeting, or CNS penetration. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Rajeev Kumar | AutoFrax LLC | autofrax@gmail.com | Duluth, GA | AutoFrax is building a robotics-enabled, AI-native discovery engine to decode hidden redundancy layers in protein misfolding. Our prior systems biology and gene knockdown work identified ABCA1 as a prion-misfolding biomarker, where contrasting in vitro and in vivo outcomes revealed evolutionary conserved compensatory network. We integrate high-throughput perturbation, AI-guided modeling, and translation validation to convert redundancy signatures into combination therapeutics. | We seek collaborators with advanced IDP/aggregation measurement platforms, structural proteomics, or phase-transition assays to strengthen mechanistic insight. We welcome AI/ML partners to model redundancy networks and therapeutic developers interested in combination strategies targeting compensatory pathways. We are particularly interested in partners with relevant cell, organoid, or animal models and access to translational biomarkers for neurodegenerative or protein misfolding diseases. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Byron Lee | Biobitworks | byron@biobitworks.com | San Francisco, CA | Currently operating as a solo founder-led effort, I develop AI-guided and experimental workflows to characterize intrinsically disordered protein (IDR) behavior and aggregation risk, and translate those insights into therapy-first discovery programs. Focus areas include misfolding-risk modeling, high-throughput assay development, early detection sensor/biomarker discovery, and target/modulator prioritization for neurodegenerative and related protein-folding diseases. | I am currently a solo technical founder and seeking teaming partners to build a full BIOGAMI-capable consortium. Highest-priority partners: wet-lab IDR/aggregation groups (cell, organoid, in vivo), therapeutic modality teams (small molecules, peptides, biologics), biomarker/diagnostic validators, and a commercialization/regulatory partner for translation. Must be able to execute quickly, share data, and operate within BIOGAMI DGOF boundaries. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Bin Xu | BRITE Research Institute of North Carolina Central University & Duke-UNC Alzheimer's Disease Research Center | bxu@nccu.edu | Durham, NC | Ultrasensitive misfolded protein detection (tau, TDP-43 etc); misfolded protein inhibitor discovery and development (tau, abeta, amylin etc); neuropathologist and neurologist collaborators with access to biospecimens bank (brain, CSF, plasma) affiliated with NIH-supported Alzheimer's Disease Research Center | Complementary expertise and resources | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Shaomei Wang | Cedars-Sinai Medical Center | shaomei.wang@cshs.org | Los Angeles, CA | using stem cells for disease modeling and therapy for degenerative diseases | protein problems in retinal degeneration | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Susan Catalano | Circle BioPharma LLC | scatalano@circlebiopharma.com | Pittsburgh, PA | Circle BioPharma LLC is the consulting practice of Susan M. Catalano, Ph.D., a biopharmaceutical executive and board director with 25 years of experience discovering, developing, and funding novel small molecule and gene therapy modalities and her colleagues. She has published extensively on foundational therapeutic approaches to protein folding disorders. https://www.linkedin.com/in/susancatalano/ | Circle BioPharma LLC is seeking to advise teaming partners on translational and clinical science strategy for advancing therapeutic candidates arising from foundational protein folding model advancement, including strategic planning of regulatory, preclinical efficacy, biomarker and clinical studies and commercial feasibility. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| NATALIA LUCHKINA | EverythingALS | natalia@everythingals.org | Seattle, WA | EverythingALS and EverythingAD are patient driven research and data science platforms for ALS and Alzheimer’s disease. We run large, remote first cohorts with deep clinical, digital, and biospecimen collection and phenotyping to discover and validate biomarkers and trial ready endpoints (TA2). For BIOGAMI, with the Allen Institute we are co developing an ALS brain atlas modeled on their AD atlas and, with Sage Bionetworks, a cross disease open IDR/IDP data and modeling platform (TA1/TA2). | We seek partners who can: build high‑throughput IDR/IDP screening platforms (cell‑free, cell‑based, and/or small‑animal); quantify condensates, aggregation kinetics, and interactomes; provide organoid and in vivo efficacy models for ALS and a non‑neurodegenerative chronic illness; design and optimize modulators; and co‑develop early indicator assays with a path toward FDA biomarker qualification. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Ashwin Lokapally | GiwoTech Inc. | ashwin@giwotech.com | Cambridge, MA | GiwoTech is a Cambridge-based computational biology startup pioneering the development of transformative foundational models to simulate complex biomolecular dynamics at unprecedented scales. Our core mission aligns directly with BIOGAMI TA1: decoding the "molecular grammar" of Intrinsically Disordered Regions (IDRs) by bridging the gap between static structure prediction and dynamic ensemble modeling. | We seek wet-lab partners with high-throughput screening (cell-free/in vivo) capabilities to validate our TA1 computational IDR models. We specifically need collaborators with expertise in Rare and Non-Rare (e.g., Neurodegenerative) disease models to lead TA2 therapeutic and sensor validation. We also actively seek commercial/pharma partners to satisfy ARPA-H's mandatory transition and commercialization requirements. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Ashwin Lokapally | GiwoTech Inc. | ashwin@giwotech.com | Cambridge, MA | GiwoTech is building AI- and physics-informed models of proteins, protein-protein interactions and protein aggregation to decode folding/misfolding and cryptic sites to design targeted, mechanistically grounded interventions for diseases. | We seek partners with advanced IDP/condensate biophysics and high-throughput platforms, cellular/animal misfolding models, high-content proteomics, digital pathology and spatial omics, plus therapeutic/clinical expertise to test AI-prioritized interventions linking mechanisms to disease trajectories. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Huimin Leung | IUB | huileung@iu.edu | Bloomington, IN | We develop in situ optical imaging methods to detect protein misfolding in a label-free manner. We have classical and quantum based advanced optical microscopy capabilities, as well as nonlinear optical imaging/sensing platforms. | We could contribute to development of optical assays required for establishing molecular grammar of IDRs. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Yixin (Chloe) Xie | Kennesaw State University | yxie11@kennesaw.edu | Atlanta, GA | AI-driven molecular modeling of protein folding/misfolding, with emphasis on intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs). We develop Transformer-based predictive models and physics-informed molecular dynamics (MD) workflows to map IDP conformational ensembles, detect folding transitions, and design modulators (peptides/small molecules) to steer folding pathways. | We seek partners with complementary wet-lab and translational capabilities: IDP biophysics/structural methods (NMR, smFRET, SAXS, CD), high-throughput screening, peptide/small-molecule synthesis, and functional assays to validate folding control. Also interested in groups with curated IDP datasets and platforms for rapid experimental feedback loops. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Yevheniy Medvediev | MatGen | yevheniy@matgenlabs.com | Cambridge, MA | MatGen is a computational CRO focused on ML/AI, cheminformatics, and computational biology for drug discovery and translational research. We deliver multi-omics analysis and integration (bulk and single-cell), cheminformatics and ML, structural biology (modeling, docking, MD), and data pipelines and software to support target ID, hit-to-lead, preclinical and clinical analytics. | We seek teaming partners (institutes, biotechs, labs) with strong biological, experimental, or clinical capabilities who need a hands-on computational performer for BIOGAMI-relevant work. We can support any computational need, from ML/AI (including with a bespoke molecular context), through rapid analyses and model development to production pipelines, dashboards, and custom software. Best fit includes open data sharing, clear milestones, and fast feedback loops. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Giuseppe Domenico Tocchini-Valentini | National Research Council (CNR) | giuseppedomenico.tocchinivalentini@cnr.it | Monterotondo (RM)-Italy | The Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC) of Italy's CNR integrates molecular biology, genomics, and imaging to study high-resolution cell dynamics (http://www.ibbc.cnr.it/). Research focuses on protein structures, DDR signaling in cancer and rare diseases, and genome instability. As an Infrafrontier/IMPC node, IBBC/EMMA phenotypes 1,000+ mutant mouse strains. EMBL collaborations drive output in oncology and neuromuscular disorders. | Collaborators Priorities: We seek collaborators with complementary expertise and resources. Ideal partners provide: Innovative therapeutics: Pharma/biotech with nanobodies, CRISPR tools, or small-molecules for DDR targets (ATM kinase). Tech platforms: AI for omics/predictive modeling; Zebrafish for high-throughput screening; Macrocomplex analysis (BioID/APEX), and structural proteomics (XL-MS/cryo-ET). Validation: Academic/clinical groups with patient cohorts and/or NGS pipelines. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Parag Mallick | Nautilus Biotechnology | paragm@nautilus.bio | Seattle, WA and San Carlos, CA., WA | Nautilus is developing a single-molecule protein analysis platform. We have recently demonstrated the ability to measure thousands of proteoforms of tau. Those studies revealed a wide range of multiply modified forms of tau whose abundance varies across brain regions and disease states. We have additionally started expanding our platform to assay other proteins of potential interest, including alpha synuclein. These forms of tau may be the critical forms to target therapeutically. | We are exceptional at measuring forms of tau. We are looking for partners who are exceptional on the modeling side and intervention side. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Beth Hoffman | Origami Therapeutics, Inc. | beth@origamitherapeutics.com | San Diego, CA | Small molecule modulators of protein misfolding to correct misfolding or eliminate toxic misfolded proteins. | 3D human models, bioinformatics/ ML expertise to generate human models | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Tiffany Peil | Schism Labs | tiffany@schismlabs.com | San Francisco, CA, CA | Schism Labs builds SHD-CCP, a geometric encoding protocol that compresses high-dimensional sequential data into 64-bit packets using topological data analysis and quaternion math. We detect cyclic structure via persistent homology, encode states on torus manifolds, and provide tamper-evident cryptographic chains. Validated on molecular dynamics trajectories with structural parallels to genetic code architecture (64 codons to 21 amino acids). Patent pending. University co-development partner. | We seek teams generating molecular dynamics or experimental protein conformational data who need computational infrastructure for grammar discovery (TA1). Our TDA pipeline detects topological transitions in protein trajectories signaling early misfolding. We provide geometric encoding of conformational states, tamper-evident data provenance, and formal grammar mapping structural forms to biological meaning. Ideal: IDP biophysics labs, MD simulation groups, structural proteomics teams. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Maxwell Sherman | Serinus Biosciences Inc | max@serinus.bio | New York, NY | Massively scalable & quantitative mapping of protein-protein binding affinity inside a eukaryotic cell. Key capabilities include: 1) mapping protein interactomes at massive scale - up to 100M interactions assayed per screen; 2) rapidly performing deep mutagenesis to characterize protein-protein interfaces and inform structural modeling; and 3) running high throughput screens for small molecules that induce or inhibit protein-protein interactions. | We seek a team with 1) expertise in computationally modeling IDPs; 2) expertise in functional assays of IDP disease pathology; and 3) expertise in drug development for protein aggregation diseases. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Justin Zimmerman | Tempus AI, Inc. | justin.zimmerman@tempus.com | Chicago, IL | Tempus AI focuses on bridging the gap between molecular discovery and clinical impact. We leverage a multimodal library of 1.5M+ clinical-genomic records to identify real-world disease signatures. We calculate a Hallmark Unfolded Protein Response score across hundreds of thousands of these de-identified records. Our research could utilize these scores, alongside H&E digital pathology and proteomics analysis, to characterize protein aggregation dynamics in oncology and Alzheimer's cohorts. | We offer real world data and testing capabilities, but we need the structural biology and drug discovery expertise to fulfill other BIOGAMI goals. We seek partners to lead TA1 foundational modeling and biophysical characterization. Specifically, we need collaborators with established pipelines in NMR, Cryo-EM, or smFRET to define IDR conformational ensembles. Additionally, we require partners in therapeutic design (e.g., small molecules or PROTACs) to modulate folding in Phase II. | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Yang Shen | Texas A&M University | yshen@tamu.edu | College Station, TX | Bioinformatics and AI4Health: context-specific protein language models, multimodal protein/cell representation learning, and generative AI, for modeling a) protein folding, dynamics, interaction, and function; b) protein and small-molecule drug design; (c) cell perturbations; and (d) variant effect prediction & modulation. Collaborative highlights include uncovering molecular mechanisms and designing therapeutic strategies for metastatic breast cancers and antibody-escaping COVID-19 variants. | In vitro and in vivo platforms for (high-throughput) perturbation effects such as mutagenesis, small molecule screening, and engineered protein expression and assaying. Experimental and clinical scientists working in the domain of IDR/IDP or/and neurodegenerative diseases. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Teresa Head-Gordon | UC Berkeley | thg@berkeley.edu | Berkeley, CA | We have created machine learning methods for disordered proteins and regions to describe their ensembles and their roles in biology, leading to insights into the conformational substates that give rise to their function. We have made great progress for structural ensemble creation across the human proteome with our AlphaFlex data, deposited in the PDB and mirrored in UniProt and have developed validation suites of experimental data for Alzheimers and autism spectrum disorder. | Experimental and disease expertise | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Julia Schaletzky | UCB | jschaletzky@berkeley.edu | Berkeley, CA | We are building a platform to define and modulate early aggregation states of intrinsically disordered proteins, using α-synuclein and TDP-43 as exemplars. By integrating high-content phenotyping, chemoproteomic perturbation, biophysical and kinetic measurements, and AI, we identify state-based intervention points that enable phenotypic small-molecule discovery, including macrocycles. | We are seeking project partners with complementary expertise in small-molecule discovery (including macrocycles), chemoproteomics, proteostasis/chaperone biology, advanced cell or animal models of α-synuclein or TDP-43 pathology, and translational validation. Industry and academic collaborators interested in state-based therapeutic approaches are welcome. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Chao Peng | University of California, Los Angeles | cpeng@mednet.ucla.edu | Los Angeles, CA | My lab focuses on the misfolding process of pathological proteins including alpha-synulcein and tau in neurodegenerative diseases. We develop various cell and animal models to analyze the genetic and environmental modifiers of this misfolding process. Recently, we studied how post-translational modifications on soluble alpha-synuclein and tau modulate the amplification of pathological alpha-synuclein and tau. We also use mathematic modeling to predict modifiers of the amplification process. | We are particularly interested to work with investigators with strong expertise in predicting the structure of IDP and designing protein or small molecules to interact with the IDP. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Nikolay Dokholyan | University of Virginia | dokh@virginia.edu | Charlottesville, VA | Our laboratory integrates physics, data science, molecular simulations, modeling and design, biochemistry and biophysics, and cell biology to study early events in neurodegenerative diseases: we aim to uncover the pathological molecular events that precede neuron death. Using our approaches, we have developed the first biomarker for ALS that discriminates patients from healthy individuals with 100% accuracy. We also developed AI tools for rational drug design. | We seek expertise in high-throughput screening platforms (robotic automation, diverse protein libraries), molecular discovery (phage display), in vivo validation using neurodegenerative and non-neurodegenerative disease models, and GMP biomanufacturing for scale-up to advance aggregation-targeted therapeutics from discovery to clinical translation. Ideal collaborators complement our studies with translational capabilities. | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |
| Lulu Jiang | University of Virginia | wpm5vs@virginia.edu | Charlottesville, VA | protein misfolding and aggregation | AI-driven predictions | TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding, TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs |
| Andrew Ward | Wyss Insitute | andrew.ward@wyss.harvard.edu | Boston, MA | Our team is developing a single molecule tool for a barcoded in-vitro libarary-on-libary screening of molecular interactions. In addition to this we can also characterize conformational properties of proteins. | We are looking for teaming partners that we can provide data from our screens to help train models, and serve as candidates for drug screens, or diagnostic targets. We can also assist in providing molecular details of drug candidates to validate expected molecular modulation of IDPs | TA1: Establish the molecular grammar of IDRs, TA2: Modulate IDPs to detect and control protein folding |