Q-FMB®: de novo physical validation for crispr guide selection and rna-based crop science
ICHORtec is developing Q-FMB®, a de novo deep tech platform for direct physical measurement of molecular binding energy (ΔG) during molecular interaction events. Q-FMB® creates a qualified physical readout for CRISPR guide target interactions, RNA target engagement and plant pathogen molecular binding, not by inference, but by measuring the energy state of the interaction itself. This matters for Crop Science because genome editing, RNA based crop protection and biologicals all depend on one core question: does the molecule bind the intended target with sufficient specificity, kinetic stability and dynamic confidence, and can near target or off target binding be detected early enough to avoid costly downstream failure? Q-FMB® measures thermodynamic energy shifts during hybridization and binding. It can evaluate CRISPR guide RNA target interactions, mismatch sensitivity, near target and off target risk, RNA and siRNA target engagement, and plant pathogen molecular interactions at SNP level resolution. This provides an earlier physical validation layer before larger screening, greenhouse or field validation programs begin. Peer reviewed methodological evidence shows that Q-FMB® can measure molecular hybridization through free energy changes and discriminate perfect target binding from a single nucleotide mismatch. ICHORtec has also validated a qualified CRISPR guide target readout with Johns Hopkins University, demonstrating kinetic and dynamic interaction data for guide RNA binding at SNP level precision. For Corteva Catalyst, the value is direct: genome editing, biologicals, RNA based crop protection, technology platforms and decision science. We propose a staged collaboration. Stage 1: a proof of evidence pilot using Corteva relevant CRISPR guide, RNA or plant pathogen target sequences to demonstrate faster and more efficient physical validation. Stage 2: strategic co development or venture capital to scale the de novo physical platform.
About ICHORtec
ICHORtec GmbH is a German biotechnology company founded in 2020 that specializes in molecular precision technologies. Its core innovation is the Quantum Fluorimetry of Molecular Binding (Q-FMB) platform, which quantifies molecular interactions by measuring changes in Gibbs free energy (ΔG) through fluorescence photon analysis. By shifting from traditional fluorescence intensity measurements to energy-based thermodynamics, the platform provides high accuracy in differentiating molecular matches from mismatches. The technology is developed for diverse applications, including point-of-care diagnostics, CRISPR guide RNA design, precision medicine, and agricultural research.
The company's work is significant for addressing challenges in therapeutic safety and clinical diagnostics. By enabling direct energy measurements, the Q-FMB platform helps minimize off-target effects in gene editing and improves the reliability of molecular testing. ICHORtec is actively collaborating with academic institutions, such as the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, to advance CRISPR specificity and safety. In addition to its research and development services, the company is preparing to launch point-of-care diagnostic kits for conditions like MRSA and tuberculosis, aiming to improve cost and time efficiency in medical settings.
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