nanome raises $3 million to help scientists get up close with molecular structures in vr
The High Cost of Molecular Discovery
The identification and investigation of novel molecular compounds represents a significant financial undertaking. Development expenses can surpass $10 billion per substance in certain instances. A substantial portion of these costs stems from the necessity of meticulously analyzing each pertinent molecule.
This analysis includes detailed study of its chemical makeup, its interactions, and its physical structure at the atomic scale. Despite advancements in software designed to model these compounds, challenges persist in achieving a complete understanding of their forms via conventional two-dimensional displays.
Nanome's VR Solution
Nanome, a startup headquartered in San Diego, addresses this challenge through the application of virtual reality. The concept behind Nanome originated from the experiences of CEO and founder Steve McCloskey during his participation in the nanoengineering program at UC San Diego.
He recognized a critical need for improved comprehension of three-dimensional molecular structures. “Understanding structure empowers our users to understand how their designs function,” McCloskey stated.
He further explained that the current drug discovery research and development process relies heavily on 2D monitors, keyboards, and mice. This reliance limits the understanding of complex 3D structures and interactions, contributing to substantial R&D costs, averaging $2.5 billion per drug.
Recent Funding and Partnerships
Nanome recently secured $3 million in funding, led by Bullpen Capital. This investment will be used to forge new business partnerships, strengthen the company’s brand identity, and expand its science and engineering team.
Ann Lai, General Partner at Bullpen Capital, commented, “Nanome is reimagining the way we interact with science at a time when innovation in collaboration is more important than ever before.” Formic Ventures, with Oculus co-founder Michael Antonov at the helm, also participated in this funding round.
Increased Relevance During the Pandemic
McCloskey believes that Nanome’s platform has become particularly valuable during the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers may find themselves working remotely, which can restrict their access to essential laboratory technology and software.
“Nanome helps scientists get on the same page quicker,” McCloskey noted. Traditionally, scientists share insights using screenshots or screen sharing, relying on mouse cursors and video conferencing to communicate.
Nanome streamlines this process by enabling researchers to collaborate within a shared virtual reality environment, facilitating molecule development together.
Expanding Applications and Future Development
To date, Nanome has primarily collaborated with companies in the food and beverage sector, as well as on projects focused on developing more sustainable battery technologies.
However, the company intends to leverage its new funding to broaden its reach into pharmaceutical chemistry, synthetic biology, and educational applications. Their upcoming product update will introduce “Spatial Recording.”
This feature will allow users to record their work for subsequent review – essentially a screen recording tailored for a VR experience. “This is not only an amazing feature for asynchronous collaboration among researchers, it is also useful for producing lectures and lessons,” McCloskey added.