Decentralized Science Project Aubrai Launches on Base to Tackle Science Funding’s ‘Valley of Death’

Longevity research is converging with cryptocurrency through Aubrai, a decentralized science (DeSci) and AI agent launched this week on Base as part of the Bio Protocol. The initiative leverages blockchain and DAOs to revolutionize science funding, offering transparent credit attribution and tokenized research outputs.

The AUBRAI token, debuting on Bio Protocol’s Launchpad, grants holders governance rights over funding decisions and a stake in revenues from commercialized discoveries. Built by VitaDAO, Bio Protocol, and Aubrey de Grey’s LEV Foundation, Aubrai targets the 'valley of death'—a funding gap where promising research stalls due to capital market retreats.

De Grey, a pioneer in longevity research, emphasizes the limitations of traditional financing. 'The consequences are a chronic funding gap and over-reliance on philanthropy,' he told CoinDesk. 'That’s why we champion alternative mechanisms like DAOs and longevity-focused venture funds.'