NAIAD is a bioinformatics startup creating novel bioactive molecules targeting G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), a superfamily of receptors involved in a wide range of diseases. The STYX technology we are developing and our strong capabilities in structure based drug design will enable us to build a robust pipeline of new molecules with high potential to become next generation medicines. Our major focus relies on the development of molecules targeting GPCRs and resulting in biased signaling, a feature that emerged as essential for minimization of adverse effects. STYX is a computational technology that allow us to predict the signaling pathway induced by a molecule interacting with a GPCR. The unique feature of our technology when compared with others on the market is the strong bias prediction of a molecule before any cellular tests.
PIPELINE
Target: Kappa opioid receptor, Condition: Pain
We are developing a class of small molecules targeting the kappa opioid receptors (KOR). These molecules can lead to a new class of painkillers, activating the G-protein pathway – inducing analgesia and blocking the Beta-arrestin pathway – preventing the dysphoria associated with the activation of this pathway by KOR signaling.
Target: Angiotensin type II receptor 1, Condition: Hypertension
We are developing two classes of small molecules targeting the Angiotensin type II receptor 1 (AGTR1). These molecules can lead to a new generation of antihypertensives, blocking the G-protein pathway – lowering the arterial pression, and activating the Beta-arrestin pathway – keeping the cardioprotective effects linked to AGTR1 activation that are lost in the current treatments.
Target: β1-adrenergic receptor, Condition: Arrhythmia, Heart Failure
We are developing a class of small molecules targeting the β-adrenergic receptors (β1R). These molecules can lead to a new class of beta-blockers, blocking G-protein pathway – protecting against myocardial infarction, arrhythmias, ischemic heart conditions and hypertension, and activating the Beta-arrestin pathway – leading to cardioprotective effects.
STRATEGIC TEAM
CEO – Pedro Henrique Camargo Penna (PhD Candidate)
Expertise in molecular evolution, molecular modelling and drug design. Working since 2015 in bioinformatics business.
CTO – Valderes De Conto (PhD )
Expertise in molecular modelling, biostatistics, drug design and QM/MM. Working in the cited scientific fields for the last 10 years.
CBDO – Ricardo di Lazzaro Filho (Msc, MD)
Expertise in biotechnology business since 2010.Focused on genetics and pharmaceutical business.
SCIENTIFIC CONSULTING TEAM
Prof. Antonio Sérgio Kimus Braz (PhD)
Expertise in molecular modelling, structural biology, QM/MM, drug design and molecular evolution.
Prof. Maurício Domingues Coutinho Neto (PhD)
Expertise in molecular modelling, structural biology, QM/MM and quantum chemistry.
