L2M QC Spring 2025 | Sparx Genomics

Leveraging large-scale genetic data for identifying novel therapeutic targets.

Developing a new drug takes an average of twelve years and costs over a billion dollars. This exorbitant cost is largely due to the high failure rate in drug development. In fact, more than 90% of drugs tested in humans will never reach the market. In most cases, the drug simply does not have the expected therapeutic effect. Thus, the significant effect observed in animal models such as mice fails to translate to humans.
To reduce the high failure rate in drug development, Sparx Genomics has developed the GET (Genetic Evidence for Target) platform, which consolidates public domain data on over 30 million genetic variants and more than 10,000 human traits and diseases. Sparx Genomics has also developed the YETI (Yardstick for Efficient Target Identification) algorithm, which helps identify the most effective and safest therapeutic targets.
By identifying molecules with a higher probability of playing a causal role in disease, Sparx Genomics could help reduce the risk of failure. Ultimately, this reduction in failure risk translates into lower drug development costs, which could decrease by as much as $130 million per approved drug.
Sparx Genomics aims to develop therapeutic candidates validated by its YETI algorithm. It also seeks to partner with other drug development companies to help them focus their efforts on the most promising molecules.
Sparx’s mission is to turn genetic data into therapeutic successes. By reducing drug development costs, Sparx contributes to providing better and more affordable new treatments to all Quebecers, Canadians, and citizens worldwide.

Faculty Supervisor:

Benoit Arsenault

Student:

Partner:

V1 Studio

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Biotechnology; Pharmaceuticals

University:

Université Laval

Program: