Molecular biology

ALCEDIAG research focuses on a specific subcategory of molecular biology called epigenetics. Whereas genetics is the study of genes and heredity, epigenetics focuses on a complementary, yet not less important aspect - how environmental factors switch on and off or regulate genes and affect gene expression. Epigenetic processes are reversible and dynamic, as they evolve over time. They are affected by environmental factors, in the broadest sense (nutrition, physical activity, stress, medication…). ALCEDIAG’s epigenetic biomarkers allow for a dynamic approach to diagnostics, taking into account the patients’ condition, the potential progression of the disease as well as the impact of treatment.

ALCEDIAG focuses on one epigenetic mechanism called RNA editing. A-to-I RNA editing is an epigenetic physiological mechanism that consists in the substitution, in precise locations on the RNA of an adenosine (A) nucleotide by an inosine (I) nucleotide. 

RNA editing is involved in numerous physiological functions and can have an impact on both proteins and regulation mechanisms. As an example, RNA editing regulates some synaptic functions via an alteration of key receptor functionalities, leading to a direct impact on synaptic functions. The ALCEDIAG team uses Next Generation Sequencing and Artificial Intelligence to objectivate this mechanism.

Artificial Intelligence

ALCEDIAG has a fully integrated platform that includes bioinformatics and biostatistics. Its team of experts uses the latest AI techniques in order to developing the company’s proprietary algorithms.

Neuroscience

Several studies have highlighted the relationships between RNA editing modifications and pathologies. RNA editing involvement has in particular been referred to for neuropsychiatric disorders (depression, bipolar disorder, suicidal behavior, schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s disease). The involvement of RNA editing has also been described in inflammatory, autoimmune disorders (Erythematosus Lupus), infectious diseases, metabolic disorders and cancers.

ALCEDIAG integrates into its R&D process an advanced expertise in Neuroscience. The company collaborates on a daily basis with neuroscientists and clinical experts all around the world. In addition, the ALCEDIAG team has extensive expertise in complex disease modelling and in network analysis. This approach ensures the relevance of ALCEDIAG biomarkers and diagnosis solutions.