Chronic back pain is a pervasive and debilitating condition affecting millions, often proving resistant to conventional treatments. Now, a University of Utah startup, Sunac Therapeutics, is pioneering a novel approach—a single-injection genetic therapy—aiming to address the root causes of degenerative disc disease (DDD) and osteoarthritis. This innovative treatment focuses on cellular regeneration, offering a potential turning point for those who have found little relief through traditional methods.
The economic and personal toll of chronic back pain is substantial. According to research from Georgetown University’s Health Policy Institute, back pain and osteoarthritis significantly diminish quality of life, impacting function, social activities, and overall well-being, often leading to feelings of hopelessness and depression. The institute’s research also highlights the high cost of these conditions, stemming from the difficulty in pinpointing specific causes and the resulting cycle of seeking various therapies, from physical therapy and chiropractic care to medication and surgery.
Sunac Therapeutics’ approach centers on restoring healthy function to cells damaged by DDD. The company’s founders believe that identifying and addressing the underlying genetic factors contributing to the disease is key to providing lasting relief. The therapy, delivered via a single injection, aims to reprogram cells using a specific gene, ZNF865, effectively rebuilding unhealthy tissue and reducing pain.
The genesis of Sunac Therapeutics lies in the research of Robby Bowles, an associate professor at the University of Utah’s Department of Biomedical Engineering. Bowles’s work identified a specific gene that appears to play a crucial role in both osteoarthritis and DDD. “There are all these little things that we don’t know about that cause back pain,” Bowles explained. “But knowing this DNA damage part, we think Here’s one of the primary reasons this disease has happened.”
This discovery led to the development of a genetic therapy designed to restore senescent, or aging, cells to a healthy state. The hope is that by addressing the cellular degeneration driven by genetic factors, the therapy can provide a more effective and long-lasting solution than current treatments. “If this works the way that the data shows, this will be a transformative treatment and it would change the trajectory of osteoarthritis research,” said Steven Laken, CEO of Sunac Therapeutics.
From Lab to Launch: A University Partnership
The journey from research to commercialization was facilitated by the University of Utah’s Technology Licensing Office (TLO). Bowles initially connected with the TLO to protect his intellectual property, recognizing the potential for his research to translate into a viable therapy. A year and a half ago, entrepreneur Steven Laken joined the project, ultimately founding Sunac Therapeutics with Bowles.
Laken explained their focus: “We were looking for a clinical problem that had no clinical solution. I knew we could have a profound impact on people with degenerative disc disease.” The company is currently in a fundraising round to support further development and clinical trials of the genetic therapy.
Jason Young, Director of Commercialization at the TLO, emphasized the importance of such partnerships. “It’s great to notice a company like Sunac Therapeutics move closer to commercialization,” he said. “I’ve had the pleasure of working with Dr. Bowles in a long-term partnership, and this innovation has real potential to help solve a large problem.”
Navigating the Translation Process
Both Bowles and Laken offer advice to researchers and postdocs considering commercializing their work. Patience is paramount, they say. “It takes a really long time to get your story and messaging together and make sure that you’re doing the right things,” Laken noted. “Fundraising takes time. Having the patience on both sides is really important.”
Bowles stressed the importance of protecting intellectual property early in the process. “Engage the TLO through the process,” he advised. “If you’re interested in translating research, make sure you’re thinking about the IP and filing your provisional patents.”
The development of Sunac Therapeutics exemplifies the potential of translating academic research into practical solutions for significant health challenges. As the company progresses through its fundraising and development phases, the prospect of a novel, effective treatment for chronic back pain moves closer to reality.
Disclaimer: This article provides information for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
Sunac Therapeutics is actively seeking funding to advance its genetic therapy. The company anticipates providing updates on its progress and clinical trial timelines in the coming months. For more information, please contact Sunac Therapeutics or the University of Utah’s Technology Licensing Office.
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