In this episode of Raising Biotech, host Surani Fernando dives into the mission of Cerevance, a company that’s raised a substantial $163 million in Series B funding to develop targeted treatments for neurodegenerative diseases. CEO Craig Thompson and Dr. Karl Kieburtz, Professor of Neurology at the University of Rochester, share insights into how Cerevance is revolutionizing the way we approach conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
Built with support from Takeda and Lightstone Ventures, Cerevance is using its proprietary NetSeq platform—a massive database of over 15,000 human brain samples—to zero in on new drug targets specific to different brain cell types. Thompson explains how this approach allows them to bypass outdated dopamine treatments and instead focus on precision therapies that could bring real relief to patients. “We’re targeting specific brain cells rather than treating everything with the same broad approach,” he explains, pointing to the potential of their method to change the treatment landscape.
Dr. Kieburtz offers a deep dive into Cerevance’s lead program targeting GPR6, a receptor within the brain’s medium spiny neurons. Unlike traditional Parkinson’s treatments that focus on dopamine pathways, this innovative angle aims to minimize off-time while reducing the side effects often seen with current therapies. Early Phase II trials are showing promising results, with patients seeing nearly 1.6 hours of improved off-time—a big win for those seeking better quality of life.
Cerevance’s funding strategy has been carefully designed to keep momentum strong, with three Series B extensions to fuel clinical progress. Thompson shared that the decision to extend the Series B instead of launching a new round was tactical, helping the company stay flexible in a challenging biotech market. By expanding their investor base to include new backers like Agent Capital and DoublePoint Ventures, Cerevance is building a solid foundation for future growth.
Looking ahead, Cerevance is gearing up for more clinical trials, with a focus on Parkinson’s therapies that could work both alone and in combination with existing drugs. Thompson hints at a possible IPO, aiming to raise $100 million, but the company remains laser-focused on delivering positive trial results first.
Interested in how Cerevance is using precision medicine to redefine Parkinson’s treatment and its future plans? Tune into this episode of Raising Biotech to learn about their innovative strategies and future plans from Craig Thompson and Dr. Karl Kieburtz.
[This episode was published on 11 June 2024]