Black Swan Biotech
Delivering effective, precision-based gene modulating therapies to improve the lives of those affected by MND
About Us
introducing Black Swan Biotech (BSB). a Perth based biotechnology company dedicated to developing advanced Antisense Oligonucleotides (AOs) for Motor Neuron Disease (MND),with a focus on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Leveraging cutting-edge genomic research, BSB aims to create highly targeted therapies addressing the genetic drivers of MND. Our mission is to provide effective, precision-based gene modulating therapies to improve the lives of those affected by MND.
What We Do
Patient-centric Approach
At BSB, patients are at the heart of everything we do, and we aim to be leaders in precision medicine for MND. Given ALS’s highly heterogeneous nature, with only 30% of patients having known genetic variants linked to the disease, we prioritize an individualised approach. Our AO therapies target validated biological pathways that drive disease onset and progression, ensuring that the right treatments reach the right patients. Patient profiling is a key feature of our upcoming clinical programs.
Legacy of Innovation
BSB’s foundation is built on decades of groundbreaking research at the Perron Institute and Murdoch University. The Perron Institute’s legacy in MND research includes the discovery of the first ALS-causing genetic variant, SOD1, led by Prof. Nigel Laing, with contributions from BSB’s co-founder/CSO, Prof. Anthony Akkari. BSB advances this legacy by translating breakthroughs into therapies using AOs, a leading approach in gene modulation. AOs have already transformed treatment for rare diseases like Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, thanks to the pioneering work of Professors Sue Fletcher and Steve Wilton, solidifying Perth’s role in precision genetic therapies.
WHAT IS MND?
MND is one of the cruellest diseases. There is no cure and it is invariably fatal.
Motor neuron disease (MND) is a devastating condition that affects 2 Australians and 15–20 Americans daily, with a global prevalence of 4–6 cases per 100,000 people. It leads to the progressive degeneration of motor systems, causing paralysis while sparing intellect and senses. Typically diagnosed between ages 40–60, MND is fatal within 3.3–5 years, primarily due to respiratory failure. While 90% of cases are sporadic, 10% are familial. The disease disproportionately affects men (3:2 ratio) and carries a societal cost exceeding $1 billion annually in the U.S. Despite four approved drugs offering limited benefits, 45 therapies are currently in clinical trials, offering hope for improved outcomes.
The Team
Prof Anthony Akkari (PhD) - CSO Elect
CSO Elect Professor, Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University Pharmacogeneticist and neuromuscular disease geneticist. With over 30 years research experience, including 18 years of industry expertise at GSK and Eli Lilly in molecular genetics, pharmaco-genetics and personalised medicine. Learn more
Dr Masha Stromme (D.Phil) - CEO Elect
Lifesciences entrepreneur, and company builder. Started her research in rare diseases of the CNS in the Genetics Laboratory at Oxford University. Investment banking roles at top-tier institutions Morgan Stanley, Altium Capital, Arctic Securities. Executive Chair of ALS company GenieUs Genomics.
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Julian Arbuckle - CBO Elect
Over 30 years R & D experience working in major pharmaceutical and biotech companies including GSK and Eli Lilly. He has extensive knowledge in the application of precision medicine in the drug development process.
Black Swan Biotech
Developing advanced Antisense Oligonucleotides (AOs) for Motor Neuron Disease (MND)