Cradle

Switzerland-based Cradle is a biotech company involved in designing proteins using GenAI that focus on understanding molecular structures, allowing a quicker, more cost-effective process of protein design. The firm employs natural language processing and proprietary data to anticipate alterations needed in the protein's genetic code for enhanced function and stability. The company also offers AI-assisted design tools that can predict a protein’s 3D structure, generate new sequences with improved thermostability, and optimize codons. 

Key customers and partnerships

In February 2024, Cradle partnered with Ginkgo Bioworks , a platform for cell programming and biosecurity. This collaboration aimed to provide a platform for R&D teams for efficient and advanced protein designing. The partnership also looked to combine Cradle's generative machine-learning models with Ginkgo’s technology to enhance protein design, ultimately increasing productivity in labs. The combination offered automated testing and validation with an easy-to-use interface, which could significantly affect fields like pharma, food, and specialty chemicals.

Funding and financials

Founded in 2022, Cradle secured USD 24 million in a Series A funding round led by Index Ventures. The funds were allocated to expand the team, boost sales, and construct additional engineering and lab facilities.