The company, operational since 2005, was founded by Josef Penninger, the director of the Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA).   Based on Josef Penninger's research activities, three projects are currently pursued:   APN 01: Development of recombinant human soluble Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 as a therapy for the Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome as well as cardiovascular and kidney diseases. DREAM: Novel approach for pain management by induction of the expression of the endogeneous opioid precursor prodynorphin via interaction with the suppressor protein DREAM. Cbl-b: Shaping of immunoreactivity by molecules inhibiting or enhancing the function of Cbl-b, a critical negative regulator of T-cell activation and autoimmunity. Apeiron's general strategy is to generate value by profiling and developing therapeutics up to a first proof of concept in patients (Phase I / II clinical trials). Following successful proof of concept in patients, the aim is to out-license projects to pharmaceutical companies, enabling the initiation of new R&D projects.   Click here to download Apeiron's executive summary