#USA #Boston #EQT Life Sciences #Atalanta Therapeutics #RNA Interference

EQT Life Sciences and Atalanta Therapeutics: A New Era in Neurological Treatments

In a significant move for the biotech industry, EQT Life Sciences has announced that it will spearhead a $75 million Series B funding round for Atalanta Therapeutics, a pioneering biotechnology firm committed to developing innovative treatments for severe neurological disorders, specifically epilepsy and Huntington's disease. This investment marks a pivotal milestone as Atalanta endeavors to leverage its novel approach through RNA interference (RNAi) technologies.

Based in Boston, Atalanta Therapeutics has made headlines with the development of its proprietary di-siRNA platform—a groundbreaking RNAi technology designed to target neurological diseases effectively. This platform enables the delivery of therapeutic agents throughout the brain and spinal cord, a feat that has remained elusive until now. According to Alicia Secor, the President and CEO of Atalanta, the supportive funding will facilitate critical Phase 1 clinical trials to advance their investigational therapies targeting KCNT1-related epilepsy and Huntington's disease.

The Importance of RNA Interference in Medicine

RNA interference is a process that allows specific genes to be silenced, thereby preventing the production of harmful proteins that lead to diseases. By using RNAi, Atalanta aims to fundamentally alter the way severe neurological conditions are treated by directly addressing the molecular causes. Their innovative approach holds the promise of not just treating symptoms but the potential to modify the disease process itself—a crucial advancement for conditions that currently lack effective long-term treatments.

The recent financing will help Atalanta propel its product candidates through regulatory clearances and into clinical testing. Dr. Arno de Wilde, Managing Director at EQT Life Sciences, expressed his confidence in Atalanta's capabilities, highlighting the technology's promising ability to silence disease-promoting genes throughout previously unreachable areas of the central nervous system. De Wilde remarked, “Our partnership with Atalanta represents a unique opportunity to support a company with the potential to change the treatment landscape for neurological diseases.”

A Strong Support Network

This funding round was not only led by EQT Life Sciences but also co-led by Sanofi Ventures, with participation from RiverVest Venture Partners, abrdn, Inc., Mirae Asset Financial Group, and returning investor F-Prime Capital. The collaboration between these major players underscores a collective commitment to invest in advanced solutions that could change lives.

To date, Atalanta has successfully raised a total of $240 million through various financing and partnership efforts, including collaborations with industry giants like Genentech and Biogen. These resources have positioned Atalanta at the forefront of biotechnological research and treatment development.

Looking Ahead

As Atalanta moves forward with its ambitious plans, patients suffering from neurological disorders may soon have new hope. With clinical trials set to commence in the near future, the company aims to make significant strides towards offering effective disease-modifying therapies that are critically needed in the field.

“Today’s announcement is more than just a funding milestone; it’s a pathway to bring meaningful therapies to patients waiting for solutions,” said Secor. The commitment from EQT Life Sciences and its partners not only provides essential capital but also embodies a shared vision of innovation in the healthcare landscape.

Atalanta Therapeutics is poised to serve as a beacon of hope for those affected by epilepsy and Huntington’s disease, propelled by cutting-edge research and robust financial backing that promises to advance the frontiers of neurological treatment.

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For further information, individuals can reach out to the EQT Press Office or visit their official channels for the latest updates on funding developments and clinical trials as they unfold.