Retro Biosciences, a biotechnology startup backed by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, is in the process of raising $1 billion in Series A funding to further its ambition of extending human lifespan. Previously, Altman invested $180 million in the company's seed round. Retro Biosciences aims not only to extend human lifespan but also to enhance healthy lifespan, ensuring that people remain healthy towards the end of their lives.
This San Francisco-based startup plans to utilize AI technology to accelerate drug development and has initiated drug trials targeting diseases such as Alzheimer's. Reportedly, Retro Biosciences recently trained a model using OpenAI that can convert ordinary cells into stem cells. CEO Joe Betz-Lacroix stated that they hope to quickly discover and develop a drug that extends human lifespan in the 2020s.
Image Source Note: Image generated by AI, image licensed by Midjourney
Retro Biosciences' ambitious goals have placed it among other major longevity projects supported by billionaires. These include Altos Labs, which was founded with a $3 billion investment from Jeff Bezos, and Unity Biotechnology, backed by both Bezos and Peter Thiel. This indicates that the field of extending human lifespan is attracting increasing attention from the tech and investment sectors.
Retro Biosciences has not only secured capital support but is also integrating AI technology into drug development. By leveraging OpenAI's powerful models, the company is attempting to tackle some of the most challenging problems in life sciences. The technology to convert ordinary cells into stem cells offers new hope for the future of regenerative medicine.
Altman's increased investment in Retro Biosciences reflects his recognition of the immense potential in the biotechnology sector. He is not only a leader in AI but is also expanding his focus to broader technological innovations. With the continuous influx of capital and technology, extending human lifespan may no longer be a distant dream.
