EpilepsyGTx secures $33m in Series A funding to advance gene therapy trials
The Kent biotechnology spinout raised the capital from backers including XGEN Venture and the British Business Bank to push its lead treatment into clinical evaluation.
A British biotechnology spinout developing targeted gene therapies for focal refractory epilepsy.
EpilepsyGTx, a biotechnology company based in Kent, has secured $33m in a Series A funding round to advance its lead candidate through clinical trials. The financing was backed by XGEN Venture, the British Business Bank, and an undisclosed global biopharmaceutical firm.
The capital will enable the firm to finalise preclinical research for EPY201, a locally administered gene therapy designed to quieten overactive neurons in specific regions of the brain. By delivering treatment directly to the seizure focus, the company aims to offer patients a single-administration alternative to daily medications and invasive surgery.
Originally formed as a spinout with backing from UCL Business, EpilepsyGTx draws on foundational research from the UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology. The latest funding marks a significant milestone as the enterprise transitions toward its first human studies.
From the founder
"Refractory epilepsy is a devastating condition causing unpredictable and life-threatening seizures, and affecting millions of patients worldwide. Our novel gene therapy EPY201 delivered directly to the seizure focus has the potential to stop seizures with a single, minimally invasive administration. In doing so, it will change the way refractory epilepsy has been treated for decades. We are proud to have the support of such high calibre investors as we progress into clinical trials."
Nicolas Koebel
Chief Executive Officer at EpilepsyGTx
Investor perspective
"EpilepsyGTx is pioneering a novel, locally administered gene therapy approach designed to achieve targeted modulation of epileptogenic brain regions. We believe that localized gene delivery offers a powerful avenue for durable and disease-modifying interventions in severe neurological disorders and are excited to support the company as EPY201 progresses toward clinical evaluation."
Federica Draghi
Managing Partner, XGEN Venture
Use of funds
- 01Fund research and development
Investors
Categories
About the company
EpilepsyGTx
EpilepsyGTx develops targeted gene therapies for focal refractory epilepsy.