DASHKO

Dashko is a biotechnology company focused on developing a new class of small molecule therapeutics that target the underlying causes of cancer and inflammatory diseases. The company's primary focus is on the inhibition of the DASH protease family, specifically dipeptidyl peptidase 8 and 9 (DPP8/9). By inhibiting these enzymes, Dashko's lead programs aim to trigger pro-caspase-1 activation and subsequent pyroptosis, a form of inflammatory programmed cell death, specifically in malignant cells. This approach is being explored for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and various solid tumors. Dashko was founded based on research from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and is backed by prominent life science investors.