The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is seeking proposals on development of novel devices and techniques to produce multiple protein biologics in response to specific battlefield threats and medical needs under a new BAA for Biologically-Derived Medicines on Demand (Bio-MOD).
One focus area of the program is on novel and flexible methodologies for genetic engineering or modification of polypeptide synthesis systems (such as prokaryotes, eukaryotes, and cell-free translation systems) to produce multiple therapeutics in response to specific demands. Example approaches include nutrient activation where nutrient type or concentration triggers specific therapeutic output; photoactivation where light intensity or wavelength inputs triggers therapeutic output; and pH activation where pH of solution triggers therapeutic output.
The second component of the BAA is for flexible, portable device platforms for manufacturing multiple biologics with high purity, efficacy and potency at the point-of-care, in short timeframes, when the specific need arises. Therapeutics to be pursued in the program is not detailed by DARPA; however, they do generalize that they must be protein-based biologics previously approved by the FDA and widely relevant to the Department of Defense and national security.
Further details are available under Solicitation Number: DARPA-BAA-12-37. Proposal abstracts are due April 24, 2012 and the full response deadline is Jun 12, 2012.
