At the forefront of drug discovery
targeting protein misfolding diseases
At the forefront of drug discovery
targeting protein misfolding diseases
Target Selection
We use monogenic or pathway genetic evidence, bioinformatics, deep biology, and clinical pathology analysis to target unmet medical needs.
Drug Discovery
Developing pharmacological chaperones to directly bind to and modulate target protein stability to restore healthy-state structure and function.
Translational Research
Biomarker Discovery, Precision Medicine
Specific and sensitive biomarkers will enable early patient identification and provide clinical stage readouts for target engagement and therapeutic efficacy.
About Us
Protego focuses on the discovery and development of first-in-class small-molecule therapeutics that aim to reprogram protein folding for the treatment of various diseases.
We are exploring monogenetic protein misfolding diseases that cause myopathy, cardiomyopathy, stroke, renal disease, retinal diseases, channelopathies, and various degenerative diseases.
Our Team
Leadership
Board of Directors
Shelley Chu, M.D., Ph.D.
- Board Member
Scientific Advisory Board
Investors
Our Science
Proteins are the molecular engines of human biology, responsible for a wide range of essential physiological processes. The structural integrity of proteins is critical to their biological functions, and disruptions in this integrity—known as protein misfolding—are increasingly recognized as the root cause of many chronic degenerative diseases. Protein misfolding can result in two major outcomes: 1) the loss of normal biological function, and 2) the acquisition of harmful, toxic functions.
Protein homeostasis, or proteostasis, is governed by a delicate balance of protein folding, misfolding, and aggregation dynamics. This balance is further modulated by a network of tightly regulated biological pathways that manage protein synthesis, folding, trafficking, and degradation both inside and outside of cells.
Protego BioPharma addresses the challenges of protein misfolding by targeting the energetics of protein folding and stability through small molecule interactions, such as pharmacological chaperones. Additionally, we modulate cellular stress and secretory pathways to restore proteostasis.
Our approach builds on the success of pharmacological chaperones, a strategy exemplified by tafamidis—a groundbreaking treatment for transthyretin amyloidosis—discovered and developed by our cofounders, Dr. Jeffery W. Kelly and Dr. Richard Labaudinière.
We also expand on the principle of correcting imbalances in protein homeostasis by using small molecules to activate the unfolded protein response (UPR). This targeted activation enhances the cell’s capacity to fold proteins, addressing underlying pathologies associated with misfolded proteins.
Pipeline
Advancing key programs targeting diseases with high unmet needs.
Careers
At Protego Bio, we value innovation, dedication, and a passion for advancing science. We are always seeking exceptional talent to join our dynamic team.
If you believe your skills and expertise align with our mission, we encourage you to submit your resume and cover letter to Careers@protegobio.com.
We will keep your information on file and contact you if a suitable opportunity arises.