Latvian LongeVC invests in US startup Glyphic Biotechnologies
Latvian fund LongeVC has invested in US-based Glyphic Biotechnologies, which is developing a protein sequencing platform.
Founded in New York in 2021 by Daniel Estandian and Joshua Yang, Glyphic Biotechnologies is developing a protein sequencing platform that uses single-molecule technology to analyze the sequence of each protein in a complex protein mixture. This could be a breakthrough in the field of proteomics (the identification and quantitative analysis of new proteins and their function), drug discovery, and diagnostics.
Currently, scientists use another technology called mass spectrometry for protein sequencing. It requires complex sample preparation and has many limitations, such as the need for high concentrations of purified protein material. This limits understanding of rare proteins and complex protein mixtures, which is what Glyphic Biotechnologies is trying to do.
Protein sequencing can be used to identify biomarkers, especially for early disease detection and tailored treatments. It enables researchers to identify specific protein changes associated with disease, and thus create more accurate healthcare solutions. Protein sequencing also plays an important role in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in quality control and regulatory compliance. Verifying the structure of therapeutic proteins ensures consistent manufacturing processes and prevents potential adverse effects, which is vital for patient safety and drug efficacy.
LongeVC is a venture company with offices in Riga and Lugano (Switzerland). It was established in 2016 by Garri Zmudze, Sergey Jakimov, and Ilya Suharenko. A €35M fund backs startups at the early and seed stages across the US and Europe.