Mining Bat Biology for Novel Therapeutic Strategies with Dr Lewis Hong of Paratus Sciences

<p><strong>Dr. Lewis Hong</strong> is the Vice President of Paratus Sciences, a biotech company uncovering novel therapeutics by studying the extreme biology of bats. With a background spanning genomics research, pigmentation genetics at Stanford, and leadership roles in translational sciences at MSD, Lewis brings deep scientific and industry expertise to this pioneering field.</p><p> </p><p>In this episode, Lewis shares how Paratus was founded to explore bats as a unique model for human health. He explains how the company built a large-scale bat genomics and bioinformatics platform which combines global sample collection, industrial sequencing, and a powerful knowledge graph, to identify high-impact therapeutic targets.</p><p> </p><p>Lewis highlights Paratus’ two lead focus areas:</p><p>• <strong>Immunology &amp; inflammation</strong>, featuring theirASC inflammasome inhibitor program now entering IND-enabling studies;</p><p>• <strong>Cardiometabolism</strong>, inspired by bats’ remarkablemetabolic resilience and cardiac performance.</p><p> </p><p>He also discusses the challenges of scaling bat genomics, the role of academic partnerships, building an R&amp;D team in Singapore, and the broader trajectory of Singapore’s biotech ecosystem. Lewis closes with practical advice for scientists entering biotech, emphasizing resilience, long-term thinking, and the importance of strong mentors and collaborators.</p><p> </p><p><strong>Host</strong>: Aakash S/O Naresh Kumar</p><p><strong>Editors</strong>: Shamieraah Jamal, Vasilina Gedzun, Aakash S/O Naresh Kumar, Dillon Chew</p><p> </p><p><strong>Timestamps</strong></p><p>01:07 Introduction</p><p>01:28 Early Career Journey</p><p>06:20 Transition to Industry</p><p>10:35 Bat Biology &amp; Drug Discovery</p><p>16:28 Scaling Bat Genomics</p><p>20:58 Pursuing ASC2 as a Therapeutic Target</p><p>23:43 Future Directions &amp; Partnerships</p><p>34:52 Advice for Aspiring Biotech Professionals</p><p>39:16 Closing Remarks</p>