Unity Biotechnology

American biotechnology company

Unity Biotechnology logo

Unity Biotechnology is an American biotechnology company focused on the development of therapeutics to slow, halt, or reverse diseases of aging. The company is headquartered in South San Francisco, California.

History

Unity Biotechnology was founded in 2009 by a group of scientists including Judith Campisi, Jan van Deursen, and Nathaniel David. The company was established with the aim of targeting cellular senescence, a process where cells lose the ability to divide and function, contributing to aging and age-related diseases.

In 2018, Unity Biotechnology went public on the NASDAQ under the ticker symbol UBX. The company's initial public offering (IPO) was aimed at raising funds to advance its research and development programs.

Research and Development

Unity Biotechnology's research focuses on the development of senolytic drugs, which are designed to selectively eliminate senescent cells. These cells accumulate with age and are associated with various age-related diseases, including osteoarthritis, eye diseases, and lung diseases.

The company's lead drug candidate, UBX0101, was developed for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee. However, in 2020, Unity announced that UBX0101 did not meet its primary endpoint in a Phase 2 clinical trial, leading to a shift in focus towards other therapeutic areas.

Unity is also exploring treatments for age-related macular degeneration and pulmonary diseases. The company is leveraging its expertise in cellular senescence to develop a pipeline of potential therapies aimed at improving healthspan and lifespan.

Technology

Unity Biotechnology's approach involves the identification and targeting of senescent cells using small molecules. By clearing these cells, the company aims to reduce inflammation and tissue damage, potentially reversing or slowing the progression of age-related conditions.

The company collaborates with leading academic institutions and research organizations to advance its scientific understanding and therapeutic development.

Leadership

Unity Biotechnology's leadership team includes experienced professionals from the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. The company's CEO, Anirvan Ghosh, joined Unity in 2020, bringing extensive experience in neuroscience and drug development.

Related pages

• Biotechnology
• Cellular senescence
• Senolytic
• Aging
• Osteoarthritis