Alethios

Alethios is a biotechnology company specializing in the development of mitochondrial genome editing therapies. Founded by scientists from the University of Cambridge, the company focuses on using zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs) specifically engineered to target and eliminate mutated mitochondrial DNA. This approach aims to treat rare and debilitating mitochondrial diseases, such as Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy and MERRF syndrome, by shifting the ratio of mutant to healthy mitochondrial DNA. The technology utilizes mitochondria-targeted zinc finger nucleases (mtZFNs) to selectively degrade mutant mtDNA, allowing wild-type mtDNA to repopulate the cell. In late 2018, Alethios was acquired by Sangamo Therapeutics to integrate its mitochondrial targeting technology into Sangamo's broader genome editing portfolio.