Note from the CEO

We are living in an era that is redefining the very essence of biotechnology. The core concept of Biotechnology is based on using living organisms to transform products by means of industrial methods. This notion was revolutionized in the late 1970s with the discovery of recombinant DNA and the production of therapeutic proteins, developments made possible by our ability to modify DNA fragments in test tubes and reintroduce the products of this engineering process into cells, thereby changing their genetic makeup. We have now reached a new stage in this biotechnological revolution. Changing the genetic makeup of cells is no longer down to chance but is performed using rational methods. A discipline once characterized by genetic manipulations resulting from makeshift “tinkering” with living organisms has now become a branch of engineering science. DNA programming now uses a perfect knowledge of the entire Genome sequence to obtain a predictable, reliable and exact result.

A silent revolution

Predictions in the field of Biotechnology are often optimistic. But the speed at which scientists have been able to decode the DNA of the human genome, and the DNA of all living species, has constantly surpassed all predictions. Today we are at the cusp of a new era in which genetic information will be available to everyone. It is estimated that by 2013, the cost of decoding the human Genome will be less than 1,000 euros per person, and the process will be possible in under four weeks. In just a few years, millions of people will have their Genome decoded and be able to use it to design customized medical treatments. Genome engineering is situated downstream of this wave. The technologies developed by Cellectis will make it possible to treat innate or acquired genomic defects. Genome engineering will generate a host of new, innovative products, taking up the torch from fossil and chemical resources. These new resources from living organisms offer vast potential for growth and sustainable development over the coming decades.

Leader in Genome engineering

Cellectis is in a strong position in this emerging industrial sector. We develop new classes of therapeutic products with the potential to transform the way in which diseases are treated and to cure diseases that are currently incurable. We also develop products for research, biopharmaceutical production, agrobiotechnology, induced stem cells and, more recently, in the area of alternative fuels. Our approach to Biotechnology is poised to bring fundamental changes to this industry in the coming decades and to offer an endless source of innovation and growth for our society.

André Choulika, Chairman and CEO