What We Do
Our scientific team uses a combination of virtual screening and generative AI tools, along with conventional laboratory practices, to design and develop a novel class of high-potency, low-toxicity, targeted therapeutic agents termed “degraders” for undruggable targets.
Therabene’s proprietary molecules are designed for the treatment of cancers, autoimmune diseases, certain types of viral infections, and other difficult-to-treat diseases that harm patients and their families.
Traditional drug discovery has focused on controlling protein activity. At Therabene, we are reaching far beyond that boundary using degraders as a novel therapeutic modality.
Founder
Dr. Mario DiPaola
Dr. Mario DiPaola is an experienced executive with a 25-year record in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. He is also the founder of Oncovolution, a next-generation, platinum-based chemotherapies company.
DiPaola founded and led Blue Stream Laboratories, which developed complex biologics and biosimilars. When the company was acquired by Charles River Laboratories in 2016, DiPaola stayed on, provided scientific guidance to the Biologics Division, and established a large molecule formulation laboratory.
DiPaola has extensive experience in basic research, development, quality, manufacturing, and regulatory functions for protein and small molecule development. He has served in various positions with companies such as Charles River Laboratories, Antigenics (Agenus), Biogen, Tektagen, and Interferon Sciences. He has participated in the development and regulatory filings for several approved therapeutics.
DiPaola has authored or co-authored more than sixty publications, was an associate research professor at Columbia University, and is credited as a co-inventor in four patents. He received his PhD in chemistry and biochemistry from New York University, an MBA in finance from Baruch College, CUNY, and is a member of the Beta Delta Chi Honor Society. He has held prestigious fellowships at Columbia University and New York University.
“Big results require big ambitions.”
- Heraclitus -