Asimov Introduces AI-driven 4th Generation CHO Edge System

Synbio company Asimov launched its fourth generation CHO Edge System. With an increased typical titer range of 5-11 g/L across modalities before any upstream process optimization, the new system has been developed to optimize expression across a breadth of biologic architectures and increase the likelihood of high titer cell lines, according to Alec Nielsen, co-founder and CEO.

The system reportedly has allowed Asimov to increase its minimum CLD titer guarantee for IgG monoclonal antibodies to 5 g/L. If the lead clone does not hit this benchmark, it is still transferred to the partner, but the service fee and all commercial use license fees are waived, adds Nielsen.

The Fourth generation CHO Edge System updates expression vector architectures, genetic parts selection, and process methodologies. In addition, the new system incorporates a suite of AI models to predict signal peptide cleavage, RNA splicing, and upstream process optimization. Customers can access these advanced capabilities by licensing the CHO Edge System or as part of Asimov’s cell line development service, explains Nielsen.

“Our 4th generation CHO Edge System incorporates learnings from a wide range of molecules, and an array of proprietary data-driven AI models,” he says. “While we always target titers in excess of 10 g/L in our CLD process, we can now guarantee a minimum of 5 g/L for IgG molecules. By offering a titer guarantee, we aim to set a new standard for cell line development in the industry.”

The CHO Edge System incorporates a GMP-banked CHO-K1 GS knock-out host (or a GS-Fut8 double knockout), a hyperactive transposase, a library of >1000 characterized genetic parts and advanced computational models. Asimov reliably generates stable cell lines with high titer and product quality by using the CHO Edge System to optimize the expression vector across modalities, points out Nielsen.