Tech

Eric Leire: How Biotechnology Can Contribute To Longevity Research

Published

3 years ago

August 6, 2021

Dr. Eric Leire, MD, MBA, is the CEO and Founder of GenFlow Biosciences. He has an impressive background in the biotechnology and gene therapy sector. Furthermore, Eric has a plethora of remarkable experience in the pharmaceutical industry, having held Pfizer, Schering Plough, and Pharmacia posts. His success has also translated into academic research, where he has held a research position at Harvard University.

In addition, his career has soared throughout the biotechnology industry, being the CEO of several private and public biotech companies. He is also the inventor of several patents and serves on the board of several biotechnology companies, such as Pherecydes (ALPHE.PA), Immunethep (developing a Covid vaccine), Inhatarget, and BSIM.

With the Biotech sector forecast to grow close to $2.5 trillion by 2028 – the financial benefits are straightforward and the moral importance to serve societal needs. In addition, research into longevity and healthy aging have progressed rapidly in recent years. We chatted with Eric, who explains how developments in the biotechnology sector can aid the longevity research process.

“Many US biotech companies shifted their research focus to improving longevity. However, only a few European biotech companies are working on a science-based development of therapeutic interventions that could delay the aging process.”

He continues, “Our company is interested in identifying the genetic and molecular pathways underpinning the aging process.” Specifically, Genflow Biosciences’ work is based on the fact that DNA repair plays a crucial role in determining an organism’s lifespan. As humans and other mammals grow older, our DNA is more and more prone to breaks. GenFlow intends to provide extra copies of a gene involved in DNA repair called SIRT6 and, more specifically, a variant of the SIRT6 found in centenarians. The additional copies of centenarian SIRT6 will improve the ability to repair DNA damage.

The feasibility of gene transfer to patients was demonstrated around 30 years ago and these methods have improved substantially. As a result, many commercial gene therapy candidates are now focussing on gene therapy for multiple diseases.

Scientists now can inject more efficient AAVs that can express a transgene such as SIRT6 into specific cells. Like other viruses, the tropism of an AAV for particular cells is controlled by the particular interaction between the proteins of its capsid (the protein shell enclosing the AAV genetic material) and the receptors of the targeted cells. In the last decade, there has been a tremendous advance in the ability to design novel, highly efficient AAVs that can target specific cells or organs.

Having a toolbox of enhanced AAVs is an important step; however, to develop an effective SIRT6 gene delivery, we also needed an understanding of the potential immunity to AAVs. A pre-existing barrier to AAV gene delivery stems from our natural exposure to AAV, resulting in a possible pre-existing humoral and cellular immunity to AAVs. Even a highly efficient and specific AAV delivering an ideal transgene (such as SIRT6) means nothing if an immune response prevents the AAV from reaching the appropriate cells. Therefore, it is critical when translating AAV gene delivery for clinical applications first to determine whether the patient has pre-existing immunity to AAV and then mitigate the development of potentially damaging immune responses when the gene is delivered intravenously. Fortunately, several studies have assessed the immune response to AAV-mediated gene therapy in both pre-clinical models and human patients. Overcoming pre-existing immunity is not trivial, but we now have strategies to enable AAV treatment without triggering immunity.

Eric believes that GenFlow’s contribution to advancing the understanding of anti-AAV immunity in our pre-clinical program. During clinical trials will help not only the development of our product but will also participate in the development of other safe and highly efficacious AAV therapies for other diseases such as neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer.

Tech

Clarity in Complexity: Dr. Dave Chatterjee’s Gift for Cyber Communication

Published

2 weeks ago

December 9, 2024

Michelle Langton

Photo courtesy of Dr. Dave Chatterjee

By Mj Toledo

A sea of confusing technical terms and threats surround people today. Many feel lost, unsure of how to protect themselves online. A distinguished cybersecurity and technology expert, Dr. Dave Chatterjee is teaching people how. He has practiced information technology management since 2001. In this field, which often bewilders outsiders, he combines academic knowledge with practical insights.

About Dr. Dave Chatterjee

The tech figure authored “Cybersecurity Readiness: A Holistic and High-Performance Approach,” which Sage published and readers praise for its thorough and accessible take on cybersecurity preparation.

Additionally, respected publications like USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Sloan Management Review have recognized his work.

“Communicating complex cybersecurity concepts clearly and effectively is essential,” Dr. Dave Chatterjee explains. “I aim to connect technical know-how with practical understanding, making sure important cybersecurity messages reach and impact all stakeholders, from executives to information technology (IT) staff.”

Dr. Dave Chatterjee has received numerous accolades throughout his career. These include the Outstanding Executive Master of Business Administration Professor of the Year award. He has also been named a University of Georgia (UGA) Outstanding Teaching Faculty Honoree.

Before the pandemic, Dr. Dave Chatterjee launched his Technology Roundtable. It features distinguished business leaders, award-winning chief information officers, and other renowned thought leaders. The roundtable covered topics such as blockchain, artificial intelligence, data quality, and cybersecurity.

Aside from his professional pursuits, he is also passionate about youth development. He also engages in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) initiatives, offering professional development workshops to K-12 students on topics ranging from making the most of collegiate experiences to safe and responsible use of technology. He also provides summer research opportunities for outstanding high school students, mentoring the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.

Decoding Cybersecurity for All

Dr. Dave Chatterjee believes effective cybersecurity involves people as much as technology. He stresses creating an organization’s security-aware culture, starting with clear, straightforward communication.

“Cybersecurity affects every part of an organization,” Dr. Dave Chatterjee states. “We create a shared sense of responsibility and preparedness by explaining complex ideas in relatable ways.”

This philosophy is evident in his roles, including his position as an adjunct associate professor at Duke University and his past work as a professor at The University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business. His skill in explaining technical concepts has made him a popular speaker and advisor across many industries.

The Power of Clear Communication in Cybersecurity

Clear communication in cybersecurity is non-negotiable. As cyber threats become more complex, explaining security concepts clearly and concisely helps organizations better protect themselves.

“Clear communication forms the foundation of a strong cybersecurity strategy,” Dr. Dave Chatterjee emphasizes. “It allows cybersecurity professionals to work with other departments, identify and reduce potential risks, respond well to incidents, and follow regulations and standards.”

This matters especially now, as cybersecurity has become a top priority for company boards. With experts expecting global cybercrime costs to reach $10.5 trillion by 2025, clear explanations of cyber risks and protection strategies help leaders make informed decisions.

Bridging Technology and Human Understanding

Dr. Dave Chatterjee does more than explain technical ideas. He promotes a better grasp of how people factor into cybersecurity, knowing that even the best security systems can fail due to human error or lack of awareness.

His Cybersecurity Readiness Podcast Series has over 70 episodes and listeners in 105 countries. It offers thought-provoking, jargon-free discussions on improving cybersecurity. These discussions cover strategies for individuals, organizations, and nations. This effort shows his advocacy for making cybersecurity knowledge available worldwide.

“The podcast series creates a community where experts, leaders, and practitioners discuss cybersecurity challenges and opportunities,” he notes. “These conversations help build a more informed and resilient digital ecosystem.”

Making Cybersecurity Less Intimidating

With new technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum computing bringing new challenges and possibilities to cybersecurity, concise communication becomes even more critical.

The tech professional continues to adapt his work in this area. A recent USA Today article, “Dave Chatterjee Drops the Cybersecurity Jargon, Encouraging Proactiveness Rather than Reactiveness,” highlights his ongoing effort to make cybersecurity accessible and actionable for everyone.

“The future of cybersecurity depends on our ability to communicate well across all levels of society,” he concludes. “Promoting a shared understanding of cyber risks and best practices creates a more resilient digital world for everyone.”

The battle for digital security requires more than just advanced technology. It demands clear communication. Dr. Dave Chatterjee’s talent for translating cybersecurity concepts into accessible language turns technical knowledge into practical action.

Undeniably, Dr. Dave Chatterjee’s gift for clarity will remain invaluable, helping create a more secure digital future for everyone.