Updates from Illume
Catch our latest progress as we build, test, and refine the science behind Illume Bio. From molecules entering the lab to early breakthroughs, this is where we share what’s happening in real time!
Tiger Launch APAC Finals
We’re excited to share that Illume Bio was awarded First Runner Up at the TigerLaunch Asia Pacific Finals!
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TigerLaunch is a globally recognised student led startup pitch competition that brings together top early stage ventures from across the Asia Pacific region. Teams are evaluated by investors and industry experts on innovation, impact, and execution.
We are grateful to the TigerLaunch team, judges, and mentors for their support and guidance throughout the journey.​
17th January, 2026
Our First Step Toward Functional Enzyme Detection
We’ve officially begun laboratory synthesis of our first molecular probe: a cefotaxime-based molecule designed to do one simple but powerful thing: report real enzyme activity.
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At Illume Bio, we focus on enzyme inhibitors and functional biology, not just whether an enzyme exists, but whether it is actively doing something harmful. This probe is our first proof-of-concept of that philosophy in action.
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The idea is straightforward. We take a widely used antibiotic, cefotaxime, and re-engineer it into a smart molecular probe. When this probe encounters a bacterial enzyme that breaks down antibiotics, the enzyme triggers the breakdown of the molecule itself. That breakdown releases a short DNA strand which acts as a clear, measurable signal that the enzyme is active.
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This matters because enzyme activity is what drives drug failure and resistance. By directly linking enzyme action to DNA release, we create a functional readout that goes beyond traditional binding assays or genetic detection.
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More to come as we bring this first molecule to life in the lab! Stay tuned!
12th December, 2025
