EQT Life Sciences Raises $80 Million for Mosanna's Sleep Apnea Nasal Spray Development
EQT Life Sciences Backs Mosanna Therapeutics
EQT Life Sciences has made a significant investment in the clinical-stage biotech company Mosanna Therapeutics, contributing $80 million through its LSP 7 fund. This funding is aimed at propelling the development of an innovative nasal spray therapy designed to address obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition that affects nearly one billion people worldwide.
Mosanna's flagship product, MOS118, represents a novel approach by treating sleep apnea as a neurological and muscular dysfunction rather than merely addressing its mechanical aspects. The unique formulation of MOS118 is intended to help restore the body's natural airway reflex, which is often compromised during sleep, leading to breathing interruptions.
The need for effective treatment for OSA has become increasingly urgent, given its implications for serious health risks including hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and increased chances of accidents due to excessive daytime fatigue. Traditional treatments often involve uncomfortable apparatuses, like CPAP machines, which many patients find disruptive to their sleep. Mosanna's approach aims to offer a more user-friendly alternative that is less intrusive and fits seamlessly into nightly routines.
In conjunction with the funding, Mosanna announced the appointment of David Weber, Ph.D., a seasoned biotech veteran, as President and CEO. Dr. Weber brings over 30 years of experience in drug development and corporate strategy, making him well-suited to guide Mosanna through this critical phase of growth. He stated, “Mosanna is taking a truly transformational approach to sleep apnea treatment – offering a non-invasive, non-mechanical solution designed to seamlessly fit into daily life.”
The recent funding will facilitate the progression of MOS118 through Phase 2 clinical trials, while also supporting the broader pipeline of Mosanna’s developments. As the company advances, they plan to further investigate the potential of MOS118 and expand their offerings to meet the diverse needs of patients struggling with sleep apnea.
EQT Life Sciences' Managing Director, Daniela Begolo, Ph.D., emphasized the competitive edge of Mosanna’s technology. “What sets Mosanna apart is its fundamentally different approach to sleep apnea, providing a therapy with the potential to drastically improve adherence and health outcomes for patients who have historically been underserved,” she remarked.
This funding not only marks a critical step for Mosanna but also highlights a growing recognition within the health and biotech sectors of the need for innovative treatments for common and often neglected medical conditions like OSA. As the development progresses, there is hopeful anticipation among healthcare providers and patients alike for what could become a groundbreaking solution for sleep-related breathing disorders.
Overall, this investment by EQT Life Sciences is poised to foster significant advancements in the treatment landscape of sleep apnea, potentially offering patients more accessible and effective therapeutic options. As Mosanna prepares to enter the next phase of its clinical journey, the focus remains on refining the ease of use and efficacy of its nasal spray therapy.
The road ahead looks promising for Mosanna Therapeutics, with the ambition to transform the quality of life for those affected by sleep apnea, a condition that continues to impact so many, often without proper diagnosis or effective management.