SynGenSys, a biotechnology company developing synthetic gene promoter systems, has launched NK.SET, a synthetic promoter library designed to enable precise, tunable gene expression in natural killer (NK) cell immunotherapies. The library was developed using SynGenSys’ proprietary informatics and design workflow and provides a range of compact de novo sequences (~200–600 bp) with customizable expression levels for targeted transgene control.

Access to precise, cell-specific promoter elements has previously limited NK cell therapy development, both in vivo and ex vivo. NK.SET offers cell-specific control, reduced off-target activity, and minimal promoter size to increase vector payload capacity. The library represents the first in a planned portfolio of cell type-specific libraries, providing off-the-shelf promoter options while allowing rapid customization for specific therapeutic requirements.

David James, co-founder and chief scientific officer at SynGenSys, said: “The introduction of NK.SET marks a significant step forward for SynGenSys, and a clear demonstration of the utility of our platform. Not only does it open the door for new partnership opportunities in the expanding NK-based immunotherapy field, but it also extends the potential for applicability of our platform to other immune cells such as T cells, broadening our impact across the cell and gene therapy landscape. This is more than a product – it’s a strategic milestone showcasing SynGenSys’ commitment to advancing the next-generation of cell and gene therapies through engineered transcriptional control – ultimately delivering safer and more effective therapies.”

Synthetic promoters are increasingly used in cell and gene therapy to replace natural promoters, which have fixed sizes and activity profiles. Bespoke synthetic promoters can be tailored to specific therapeutic applications, improving tissue specificity and reducing off-target effects, particularly in in vivo therapies. NK.SET demonstrates the practical utility of SynGenSys’ platform and provides a proof-of-concept for designing optimised promoters for specific cell types.