Smart Red Blood Cells (Smart-RBC)

The Smart-RBC program seeks to engineer human red blood cells to contain novel biological features capable of safely and temporarily altering human physiology for approximately 120 days. This effort requires developing genetically modified RBC precursors that mature into enucleated RBCs containing novel or precisely controlled natural proteins. Technical Challenges (TC1 & TC2) focus on demonstrating safety (meeting metrics in Table 2) and building biological circuits with sense, decide, and act capabilities, utilizing biomarkers to alter metabolism or physiology – with a focus on extensibility to future use-cases. Proposals must demonstrate a comprehensive technical approach, including robustness, scalability, and risk mitigation strategies, and assemble a team with expertise in gene editing, biological circuits, and red blood cell physiology. Successful proposers will deliver a Technical Clarification Document detailing risk assessments and address questions regarding the current technology landscape, potential impact, and value proposition for both the Department of Defense and commercial sectors, as well as a completed cost spreadsheet. Intellectual property restrictions must not impede government transition of the technology.

Notice ID

a0160217c997497c897c3320db9dcb7f

Solicitation Number

DARPA-PS-26-02

NAICS Code

541714

Classification Code

AC12