Convert VitaFOXO VITAFOXO to Optimism OP

This project will design a new RNA therapeutic that nudges the longevity-linked FOXO3 gene into its health-promoting form to halt the tissue breakdown behind degenerative disc disease—opening a precise, scalable route to drugs that extend healthspan. Dr. Lorna Harries’ lab has identified an innovative way to modulate FOXO3, a well known and yet undrugged longevity target, and propose leveraging it to address chronic lower back pain stemming from degenerative disc disease. They plan to make short, lab-made modified RNA molecules (antisense oligonucleotides) that selectively switch FOXO3’s “good” message on, first in human cells and mini-disc models. Success would yield 1) a lead drug candidate, 2) proof it can restore disc health, and 3) the data needed for patenting and further development. The same molecules could later be adapted to treat many other age-related conditions, helping people stay healthy for longer.

Optimism is a network of chains called the Superchain, built on the open-source OP Stack. OP Mainnet was the first chain, with several others now operating on the OP Stack architecture, including Base (by Coinbase), Unichain (by Uniswap), Ink (by Kraken), and World Chain (by Worldcoin). The OP Stack serves as a framework for Ethereum Layer 2 chains and supports significant L2 activity. Every OP Chain in the Superchain contributes back to the Optimism Collective and all chains follow a standardized revenue-sharing model: the greater of 2.5% of total chain revenue or 15% of onchain profit (defined as fees minus L1 gas costs) is paid back to the Optimism. By aligning economic incentives across many chains, Optimism aims to transform Ethereum scaling into a sustainable flywheel by delivering fast, low-cost transactions while reinvesting in the future of the ecosystem. OP holders participate in governance to shape protocol upgrades, funding decisions, and more