#USA #New York #Lupus Research Alliance #Autoimmunity #Lupus Ventures

Lupus Research Alliance Launches Lupus Ventures

On January 6, 2026, the Lupus Research Alliance, recognized as the largest private funder of lupus research globally, made an exciting announcement regarding the establishment of a new philanthropic initiative called Lupus Ventures. This new fund aims to revolutionize the landscape for treatments and diagnostics related to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and other related autoimmune diseases.

Bridging the Gap in Lupus Treatment Development

Lupus is a complex chronic autoimmune disease that affects millions around the world, predominantly women diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 45. Despite the U.S. FDA's approval of Benlysta® in 2011, development of effective lupus treatments has remained lackluster for a significant period. That trend is beginning to change with the recent approvals of Saphnelo® and Lupkynis® in 2021, and Gazyva® in late 2025. Now, more than 140 innovative lupus therapies are currently undergoing clinical trials, a hopeful sign for the future.

Lupus Ventures is poised to expedite the creation of new treatments and diagnostics that could elevate the standard of care and provide substantial benefits to millions enduring the challenges of lupus.

Leadership and Vision

Nishant Rastogi, an experienced life sciences investor, will head Lupus Ventures as its inaugural Managing Director. With over a decade of experience in biotech venture capital and private equity, Rastogi has built a notable career working with various biotech and medtech companies. His expertise will be instrumental in driving the fund’s mission forward. He remarked, "I am grateful for the opportunity to build this platform within the Lupus Research Alliance. As the world's only investment fund dedicated specifically to SLE, we can uniquely support companies developing potentially life-saving therapies for lupus patients globally."

Opportunity for Early-Stage Investments

Lupus Ventures positions itself to capitalize on philanthropic investments in higher-risk early-stage companies—essentially bridging the gap between innovative scientific research and commercial viability. The commitment to financially back novel ideas ensures that potentially life-changing treatments do not stagnate for want of funding.

As the Alliance has successfully supported over 650 research grants, amounting to more than $284 million, the Lupus Ventures fund is set to leverage this historical expertise in guiding and advising companies involved in lupus research.

In Rastogi’s words, "Recent scientific advancements combined with growing investor interest make this a prime moment to launch the Fund, ensuring that promising discoveries make it out into the hands of those who need them most."

The Fund's Scope and Future Aspirations

The Lupus Ventures Fund will consider companies at all development stages and across various modalities for potential investment. Alongside financial support, companies will benefit from strategic counsel provided by the Lupus Research Alliance’s deep pool of knowledge and expertise.

An Investment Committee, including Rastogi, Albert T. Roy (President and CEO of the Lupus Research Alliance), and Ira Akselrad (Chair of the Lupus Research Alliance Board), will oversee the fund’s operations. Furthermore, the Scientific Advisory Board, led by Teodora Staeva, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer, will enhance the fund's analytical rigor.

Looking ahead, Lupus Ventures plans to expand its committee and investment teams in 2026, making the most of the promising landscape for lupus care and treatment options.

For more information on Lupus Ventures and their critical work, visit Lupus Ventures.

About the Lupus Research Alliance

Established as a leader in funding innovative lupus research, the Lupus Research Alliance is committed to transforming lupus treatment and discovery through funding and supporting cutting-edge research initiatives aimed at diagnosing and curing lupus. The organization has built a reputation for ensuring that 100% of all donations go directly to supporting lupus research programs. Learn more by visiting Lupus Research Alliance or follow them on social media.