Astellas Awards Future Innovator Prize to DeepSeq.AI and Serna Bio

Astellas Pharma and MBC BioLabs have announced DeepSeq.AI and Serna Bio as the recipients of the 2025 Astellas Future Innovator Prize. Announced in a press release, the award provides these companies with a year-long access to MBC BioLabs' state-of-the-art facilities in San Francisco, along with the expertise of Astellas to advance their research.

The prize, now in its sixth year, is designed to support biotech startups in accelerating their early research efforts. DeepSeq.AI and Serna Bio were selected from over 50 applicants based on the innovative nature of their research and the potential therapeutic impact of their work. DeepSeq.AI focuses on AI-driven large molecule discovery, while Serna Bio specializes in AI-enabled drug discovery targeting RNA structures.

This initiative by Astellas aims to foster scientific breakthroughs that could transform patient care globally, particularly in fields like oncology and infectious diseases. The collaboration with MBC BioLabs offers these startups a vibrant community and expert mentorship to help bring their pioneering ideas to fruition.