Entrega

Oral delivery of complex molecules

Problem

Biologic drugs address major medical needs in areas such as cancer and inflammatory disease. However, most biologics need to be delivered by injection, which can lead to challenges in compliance and effectiveness. Many promising small molecule drugs have also "failed" - not because of the efficacy or safety profile, but because they could not be effectively delivered orally.

Solution & Strategy

Entrega (meaning "delivery" in Spanish) is developing a proprietary formulation technology for oral delivery of peptides, proteins, and poorly bioavailable small molecules. Entrega's solution is simple, easy to formulate and applicable to a wide variety of drug substances. In partnership with Enlight's pharma members, Entrega has demonstrated the potential of the technology using in vitro and in vivo models, with a variety of drug molecules.

The Team

	Bob LangerSAB Chair		Samir MitragotriSAB Member
	Howie RosenBoard Member		Colin GardnerSAB Member

Endra

Fast, simple, quantitative in vivo imaging with no ionizing radiation

Problem

Most research and clinical imaging methods require ionizing radiation or are dependent on specialized probes and tracers. Ultrasound and optical systems have limited resolution, whereas CT, PET and MRI are expensive and require specialized facilities and probes. Drug developers need an imaging system that provides high-resolution images from live animals for longitudinal studies.

Solution & Strategy

Endra, Inc. has developed and commercialized a preclinical scanner using photo-acoustic imaging - where pulsed light creates detectable sound waves. This conveniently provides high-contrast images at depth and spatial resolution far exceeding existing techniques - without ionizing radiation. Endra is currently developing a related technology, thermo-acoustic enhanced ultrasound for medical imaging, which will bring many of the same advantages to the point of care.

The Team

	Mike ThorntonPresident		Paul PicotDirector, Technology & Product Development
	Richard MossManager of Commercial Operations		Timothy MorganProduct Manager

KNODE

Automated expert finding and content discovery

Problem

Knowledge-intensive enterprises require convenient and rapid access to expert information and the experts who generated the information. The ability to access expertise within and beyond an R&D organization is critical for success. Existing solutions - whether traditional enterprise search or 'business-oriented' social networks - fall short. To truly address this challenge a new approach is required.

Solution & Strategy

Enlight developed KNODE based on an understanding of the challenges faced by the pharmaceutical industry. The software connects users with experts and their content using a simple tool embedded with in the everyday work flow. The approach and expertise-focused solution is unique: "Not just who you know, but who you should know".

Team

KNODE is working with a team of leading academic thought leaders and industry veterans. More information to follow soon.