Science Animation Case Study Cullgen
How we visualized uSMITE™ and brought targeted protein degradation to life
Cullgen is a clinical-stage biotech company pioneering a new generation of targeted protein degraders through its proprietary uSMITE™ platform. By leveraging the ubiquitin-proteasome system, Cullgen develops small molecules that can eliminate disease-causing proteins previously considered “undruggable.” Their therapies hold promise for cancer, inflammation, autoimmune and neurodegenerative conditions.
We were thrilled to help Cullgen explain this complex platform with a 3D animation that now sits proudly on their website. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at this science animation case study.
Science animation case study: explaining ligase selectivity
One of the most complex parts of the story was visualizing the difference between tissue-selective and tumor-enriched ligases. Both play a key role in Cullgen’s drug design, but showing them side-by-side risked confusing the audience.
Our approach: We broke this down into clearly separated scenes with unique color coding, tissue labeling, and supporting subtitles. By introducing the concepts together but explaining them apart, we preserved clarity without losing detail.
Science animation case study challenge: sensitive visual design
At one point, we depicted breast cancer on a human figure. While anatomically accurate, it raised cultural concerns for some of Cullgen’s global investors.
How we solved it: We created multiple iterations, testing alternatives like reducing detail or adding a bra-like overlay. In the final version, we softened anatomical shapes enough to avoid controversy, while still communicating the message clearly.
Visual clarity in this science animation case study
Another critical moment came when we had to highlight “functionally essential ligases” within a colorful circular diagram. Our first version made the entire wheel glow white, which confused viewers.
Fix: We removed the glow, emphasized select blocks in solid white, and added outlined dark-blue text. This gave immediate visual contrast without distracting from the surrounding elements.
Final result of the Cullgen science animation case study
After rounds of feedback and refinement, the final video became also a hero asset for Cullgen. It’s now featured on their website, helping explain their uSMITE™ technology to investors and partners around the world.
The project was highly collaborative. Seth and Gabi from Cullgen described the result as “wonderful,” and told us they were excited to showcase it. We’re proud of how this science animation case study turned out.
👉 Want to learn how visuals help investors understand your biotech?
Check out this article on communicating science to investors.
