In the rapidly evolving landscape of biotechnology and cancer research, a growing number of companies are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in oncology.
One among them is Cure51
Meet Cure51
Based out of Paris, Cure51 is a TechBio company focused on building the first global database of cancer survivors.
Established in collaboration with leading oncology centres, the company has identified over 1,500 survivors across 42 countries, representing a broad international cohort.
Cure51 has developed a unique platform for gathering and analysing data, as well as a special laboratory for sequencing samples from cancer survivors.
This combined approach helps identify potential treatments, which are then validated with the help of the scientific community.
Right now, the company is focusing on three aggressive types of cancer but plans to extend its research to other diseases and treatment areas using its special dataset and resources.
In this edition of the “What’s in the Name” series, we’ll explore the rationale behind Cure51’s name, their motto, and others
Inspired by Rosalind Franklin
“We named our Techbio startup Cure51 after Rosalind Franklin, whose works and discoveries were game-changing for modern medicine as we know it today,” reveals Nicolas Wolikow, co-founder and CEO of Cure51.
The name Cure51 is a tribute to her crucial contributions to molecular biology, particularly her work on X-ray diffraction images of DNA, which led to the discovery of the DNA double helix structure.
A name that reflects a mission
The name Cure51 encapsulates the company’s mission to scale a cure to Cancer as well as a radical medical breakthrough.
“We are seeking to unlock the biological mechanisms responsible for exceptional cancer survivors patients and through this, we want to make cancer a disease of the past. Our vision is to harness cutting-edge technology and biology to unlock the survival mechanisms of outlier patients, creating another major medical breakthrough for Cancer,” adds Wolikow.
Franklin’s research was key to understanding genetics, which has major impacts on medicine and treatments.
The “51” in Cure51 references Photo 51, the famous X-ray diffraction image taken by Franklin and her PhD student, Raymond Gosling, which provided key evidence for the structure of DNA.
“Like Rosalind Franklin’s Photo 51, which was a crucial step toward the discovery of the DNA double helix, we strive to contribute essential breakthroughs in cancer biology understanding and medical treatments,” he continues.
“We also like the idea of referencing a woman, as so many women have not been credited or their work, not just in science, but it’s been particularly true in our field,” adds Wolikow.
The process behind the name
Finalising the name Cure51 took several weeks of discussion and brainstorming, according to Wolikow.
“We wanted a name that not only honoured a figure who made a monumental impact on science but also encapsulated our goal to provide cures and innovative treatments,” explains Wolikow.
“Rosalind Franklin’s work stood out as the perfect inspiration, and Photo 51 resonated with the team as a symbol of discovery and progress. Once the connection was made, the name felt like a natural fit for our mission,” he adds.
Domain names, trademarks, and branding
While domain availability was an important consideration, it wasn’t the deciding factor, according to Wolikow.
The founding duo explored multiple variations before finding a domain that matched the brand.
“It was essential that our name be easy to remember and represent our vision, and fortunately, we were able to secure a domain that fits,” states Wolikow.
Wolikow said that trademarking posed some initial concerns, particularly given the frequent use of the word “cure” in healthcare.
However, the specificity of “Cure51” and its unique reference to Photo 51 helped them secure legal protection without major issues.
“CANCER DELENDA EST”
Wolikow is confident that the name will grow with the company.
“However, as we continue to grow and explore new avenues, we remain open to adapting the brand to reflect any new directions. Our motto, which I also have as an email signature, is CANCER DELENDA EST. Cancer must be destroyed,” he adds.
Does a name drive success?
“The name Cure51 helps convey our mission clearly and creates a connection with our audience, which contributes to our overall positioning,” he says.
However, it is not the only factor in a company’s success. The true keys to success lie in the value of the products or services offered and the ability to innovate.
