ERC Proof of Concept Grant for Fabian Theis

In the CellCourier project, Prof. Fabian Theis and his team are integrating single-cell genomics, advanced computational models, and generative AI to address one of the biggest challenges in drug therapy, namely precise targeting. The aim is to precisely program drug delivery via combinatorial cell targeting and generative design of tailored binding peptides. By leveraging data from the Human Cell Atlas and AI models, the researchers generate “surface codes” – molecular maps that guide these binding peptides. Initially, CellCourier will focus on lung diseases such as COPD, cystic fibrosis, and lung cancer. By enabling more precise delivery, CellCourier has the potential to reduce side effects and improve the safety of mRNA-based and other treatments.