SilcsBio’s drug design algorithms get patent

Algorithms used in a Spark Baltimore–based company’s software was recently patented for algorithms that will help it expand its presence in the market, according to its CEO.
SilcsBio is bringing software to the pharmaceutical process of finding new medications. The company makes software that’s designed to help pharmaceutical companies with parts of the process of developing new treatments, including a method to seek out compounds that could potentially be developed. The company licensed technology from the University of Maryland, Baltimore.

Exciting News: US Patent 10,002,228 has been issued! It covers algorithms invented by Dr. Alex MacKerell at the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) that are used for SILCS. Congratulations, @alex_mackerell @UMBaltimore! #CompChem #DrugDesign #SBDDhttps://t.co/sqJWydvKI5

— SilcsBio (@silcsbio) July 12, 2018

According to CEO Ken Malone, the startup’s patent covers algorithms invented by Alex MacKerell of UMB and Olgun Guvench of the University of New England, College of Pharmacy.
Using the results of the algorithms, the company’s software can present color-coded maps of a protein’s surface, which shows potential new development possibilities.
The IP also gives the startup a way to stand out.
“As we are a relatively new entrant into a well established market, the patent allows us to grow our presence by differentiating through superior performance,” Malone said.