Modulus Discovery, Inc., a preclinical-stage technology-driven drug discovery company announced today the initiation of a research collaboration with Professor Tsutomu Suzuki of Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, University of Tokyo to pursue drug discovery on a novel target for COVID-19 and related emerging virus infections.

Emerging viruses are now becoming one of the largest threats to world health and stability due in part to accelerating globalization of the world economy and society. Recent examples include not only the current novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV2) pandemic, but also Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) virus, Zika virus, Dengue virus, novel flu viruses and others. These viruses belong to the common group of RNA viruses which utilizes the RNA molecule as its genetic material. In this research collaboration, we aim to develop small molecule therapeutics with novel mechanisms of action targeting known and emerging RNA viruses including SARS-CoV2.

Prof. Suzuki is a leading scientists in the field of RNA modification and its physiological functions. His demonstrated expertise in this area includes the development of accurate analytical methods to quantify RNA modification, and functional analyses of these modifications and its association with human diseases. The collaboration with Modulus leverages the combination of his research achievement and knowledge with Modulus’ drug discovery platform to develop innovative anti-RNA virus drugs.

Comment from S. Roy Kimura, CEO, Modulus Discovery, Inc.
“We are excited to initiate this collaboration with Professor Suzuki, the world-leading and distinguished scientist in the field of RNA modification. This will be our second in a series of collaborations with Professor Suzuki, the first of which we announced in 2018. The accelerated discovery and development of novel and unique small-molecule therapeutics is our strength. As part of the global healthcare industry, we hope to contribute meaningfully to society by discovering much needed treatments for COVID-19 and other emerging viruses, and to further our vision to efficiently deliver breakthrough medicines for patients and their families with unmet medical needs.”

Comment from Professor Tsutomu Suzuki, University of Tokyo
“RNA modification, which is our main research interest, plays essential roles to maintain many physiological functions not only in mammalian species including human but in RNA viruses including novel corona virus, now spreading worldwide. Leveraging our knowledge accumulated in the multiple areas of various RNA modifications and their functions, we are hopeful that we can find ways to mitigate current and future threats to human society.”