Latest news with #RachelMears
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Jeito Capital leads EUR 132 million oversubscribed Series B financing in Azafaros to advance Phase 3 clinical programs of innovative therapies in rare inherited neuro-metabolic disorders
Jeito Capital leads EUR 132 million oversubscribed Series B financing in Azafaros to advance Phase 3 clinical programs of innovative therapies in rare inherited neuro-metabolic disorders Proceeds will support two Phase 3 pivotal programs with nizubaglustat, lead asset in Niemann-Pick disease Type C disease and GM1/GM2 gangliosidoses, three forms of rare lysosomal storage disorders, as well as expanding Azafaros pipeline to other indications The patient benefit drives Jeito's mission. This investment in life threatening rare genetic disorders, affecting children and young adults illustrates Jeito's commitment to accelerate the development of high-impact treatments for patients with high unmet needs Paris, France, May 13, 2025 – Jeito Capital ('Jeito'), a global leading independent Private Equity fund dedicated to biopharma, announces today it is leading an oversubscribed EUR 132 million Series B financing round in Azafaros, a clinical-stage company focused on developing disease-modifying therapeutics to offer new treatment options to patients with rare lysosomal storage disorders. The financing is led by Jeito Capital, and co-led by Forbion Growth, with participation from Seroba, Pictet Group and existing investors Forbion Ventures, Schroders Capital and BioGeneration Ventures. Rachel Mears, Partner, and Julien Elric, Senior Principal at Jeito Capital will join Azafaros's Board of Directors as Board members. Founded in 2018 and built on scientific discoveries from Leiden University and Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Azafaros is led by a seasoned team of experts in rare disease drug development and commercialization. The company is developing a first-in-class dual-acting drug candidate to offer new treatment options to patients with lysosomal storage disorders, a group of severe rare genetic diseases that often cause progressive neurodegeneration and, in many cases, fatal outcomes. Its lead asset, nizubaglustat, has been awarded Orphan Drug Designation in both the US and Europe as well as Fast track status in the US. The financing will advance two Phase 3 programs with nizubaglustat, lead asset in Niemann-Pick disease Type C (NPC) disease and GM1/GM2 gangliosidoses as well as expanding Azafaros pipeline to other indications. The company expects to initiate both Phase 3 studies later this year. Dr. Rafaèle Tordjman, MD, PhD, Founder and CEO of Jeito Capital, said: 'This investment reflects Jeito's commitment to accelerating the development of impactful therapies for patients with high unmet needs. Azafaros has the potential to develop new efficient, safe and tolerable therapeutic options for young patients suffering from progressive debilitating and even fatal rare metabolic disorders that generates very high expectations. We look forward to supporting the talented Azafaros team with our collective expertise to accelerate its pivotal clinical developments to go faster to patients.'Rachel Mears, Partner at Jeito Capital, added: 'Azafaros has been impressive in its execution with nizubaglustat poised to begin Phase 3 clinical development and the potential to significantly improve the lives of NPC and GM1/GM2 patients. We are excited to support and accelerate the Azafaros team in this important next step in the Company's clinical development journey. Leading this round further demonstrates Jeito's commitment to making a meaningful difference in patients' lives by pursuing much needed benefits for those suffering from rare diseases.' Stefano Portolano, Chief Executive Officer at Azafaros, concluded: 'This successful Series B round marks a significant milestone for Azafaros, allowing us to accelerate the development of nizubaglustat and leverage our scientific understanding and competencies to bring additional candidates into development. The fact that we have been able to attract leading life sciences investors to join our existing strong group of specialist investors is a testament to the impressive accomplishments of the team and the large unmet medical need that currently exists for patients with these hugely debilitating neurological diseases. We look forward to bringing nizubaglustat to patients.' About Jeito CapitalJeito Capital is a global leading Private Equity fund with a patient benefit driven approach that finances and accelerates the development and growth of ground-breaking medical innovation. Jeito empowers and supports managers through its expert, integrated, multi-talented team and through the investment of significant capital to ensure the growth of companies, building market leaders in their respective therapeutic areas with accelerated patients' access globally, especially in Europe and the United States. Jeito has built a diversified portfolio of clinical biopharmas with cutting-edge innovations addressing high unmet needs. Jeito Capital is based in Paris with a presence in Europe and the United more information, please visit or follow us on LinkedIn. About Azafaros Azafaros is a clinical-stage company founded in 2018 with a deep understanding of rare genetic disease mechanisms using compound discoveries made by scientists at Leiden University and Amsterdam UMC and is led by a team of highly experienced industry experts. Azafaros aims to build a pipeline of disease-modifying therapeutics to offer new treatment options to patients and their families. By applying its knowledge, network and courage, the Azafaros team challenges traditional development pathways to rapidly bring new drugs to the rare disease patients who need them. Azafaros is supported by Leading Healthcare investors including Jeito Capital, Forbion Growth, Seroba, Pictet Group and a syndicate of leading Dutch and Swiss existing investors including Forbion Ventures, BioGeneration Ventures (BGV), BioMedPartners, Asahi Kasei Pharma Ventures, and Schroders Capital. Contacts: Jeito Capital Rafaèle Tordjman, Founder & CEOJessica Fadel, EATel: +33 6 33 44 25 47 Maior ICR HealthcareStéphanie Elbaz Mary-Jane Elliott / Davide Salvi / Kris LamTel: +33 6 46 05 08 07 Jeito@ +44 (0) 20 3709 5700 Sean Leous ICR Healthcare Tel: +1 (646) 866 4012Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Business Wire
13-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Azafaros Secures € 132M in Oversubscribed Series B Financing to Advance Phase 3 Clinical Programs of Innovative Therapies in Lysosomal Storage Disorders
LEIDEN, Netherlands--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Azafaros, a clinical-stage company focused on developing disease-modifying therapeutics to offer new treatment options to patients with rare lysosomal storage disorders, announces the completion of an oversubscribed €132M Series B financing led by Jeito Capital, co-led by Forbion Growth and with additional participation from Seroba, Pictet Group and existing investors Forbion Ventures, Schroders Capital and BioGeneration Ventures (BGV). This financing enables Azafaros to accelerate the development of its lead product nizubaglustat, scheduled to enter Phase 3 studies for Niemann-Pick disease Type C (NPC) and GM1/GM2 gangliosidoses later this year, as well as expanding the Azafaros pipeline to other indications. Rachel Mears, Partner at Jeito Capital; Julien Elric, Senior Principal at Jeito Capital; and Audrey Cacaly, Principal at Forbion Growth will also join Azafaros's Board of Directors as Board members. Founded in 2018 by BGV, leveraging science from Leiden University and Amsterdam UMC, Azafaros is led by a team of highly experienced industry experts in rare disease drug development and commercialization. The company is developing a first-in-class dual-acting drug candidate to offer new treatment options to patients with lysosomal storage disorders, a group of severe rare genetic diseases that often cause progressive neurodegeneration and, in many cases, fatal outcomes. ' This successful Series B round marks a significant milestone for Azafaros, allowing us to accelerate the development of nizubaglustat and leverage our scientific understanding and competencies to bring additional candidates into development,' said Stefano Portolano, Chief Executive Officer at Azafaros. ' The fact that we have been able to attract leading life sciences investors to join our existing, strong group of specialist investors is a testament to the impressive accomplishments of the team and the large unmet medical need that currently exists for patients with these hugely debilitating neurological diseases. We look forward to bringing nizubaglustat to patients.' ' Azafaros has been impressive in its execution, with nizubaglustat poised to begin Phase 3 clinical development and the potential to significantly improve the lives of NPC and GM1/GM2 patients. We are excited to support and accelerate the Azafaros team in this important next step in the Company's clinical development journey. Leading this round further demonstrates Jeito's commitment to making a meaningful difference in patients' lives by pursuing much needed benefits for those suffering from rare diseases,' said Rachel Mears, Partner at Jeito Capital. ' Azafaros exemplifies the kind of science-driven, mission-focused company we seek to back. Nizubaglustat has the potential to fundamentally change the treatment landscape for rare genetic diseases, and we are proud to support their journey as they move closer to delivering real hope and this much needed treatment option to patients and families, ' noted Audrey Cacaly, Principal at Forbion Growth. About nizubaglustat Nizubaglustat is a small molecule, orally available and brain penetrant azasugar with a unique dual mode of action, developed as a potential treatment for rare lysosomal storage disorders with neurological involvement, including GM1 and GM2 gangliosidoses and Niemann-Pick disease Type C (NPC). Nizubaglustat has received Rare Pediatric Disease Designations (RPDD) for the treatment of GM1 and GM2 gangliosidoses and NPC, Orphan Drug Designations (ODD) for GM1 and GM2 gangliosidosis (Sandhoff and Tay-Sachs Diseases) and NPC, as well as Fast Track Designation and IND clearance for GM1/GM2 gangliosidoses and NPC from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Additionally, nizubaglustat has been awarded Orphan Medicinal Product Designation (OMPD) for the treatment of GM1 and GM2 gangliosidoses by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and Innovation Passport for the treatment of GM1 and GM2 gangliosidoses from the UK Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). About GM1 and GM2 gangliosidoses GM1 gangliosidosis and GM2 gangliosidosis (Tay-Sachs and Sandhoff diseases) are lysosomal storage disorders caused by the accumulation of GM1 or GM2 gangliosides respectively, in the central nervous system (CNS), resulting in progressive and severe neurological impairment and premature death. These diseases mostly affect infants and children, and no disease-modifying treatments are currently available. About Niemann-Pick disease Type C (NPC) Niemann-Pick disease Type C is a progressive, life-limiting neurological lysosomal storage disorder caused by mutations in the NPC1 or NPC2 gene and aberrant endosomal-lysosomal trafficking, leading to the accumulation of various lipids, including gangliosides in the CNS. The onset of disease can happen throughout the lifespan of an affected individual, from prenatal life through adulthood. About Azafaros Azafaros is a clinical-stage company founded in 2018 with a deep understanding of rare genetic disease mechanisms using compound discoveries made by scientists at Leiden University and Amsterdam UMC and is led by a team of highly experienced industry experts. Azafaros aims to build a pipeline of disease-modifying therapeutics to offer new treatment options to patients and their families. By applying its knowledge, network and courage, the Azafaros team challenges traditional development pathways to rapidly bring new drugs to the rare disease patients who need them. Azafaros is supported by leading healthcare investors, including Jeito Capital, Forbion Growth, Seroba, Pictet Group and a syndicate of leading Dutch and Swiss existing investors including Forbion Ventures, BioGeneration Ventures (BGV), BioMedPartners, Asahi Kasei Pharma Ventures, and Schroders Capital. About Jeito Capital Jeito Capital is a global leading Private Equity fund with a patient benefit driven approach that finances and accelerates the development and growth of ground-breaking medical innovation. Jeito empowers and supports managers through its expert, integrated, multi-talented team and through the investment of significant capital to ensure the growth of companies, building market leaders in their respective therapeutic areas with accelerated patients' access globally, especially in Europe and the United States. Jeito has built a diversified portfolio of clinical biopharmas with cutting-edge innovations addressing high unmet needs. Jeito Capital is based in Paris with a presence in Europe and the United States. For more information, please visit or follow us on LinkedIn. About Forbion Forbion is a leading global venture capital firm with deep expertise in Europe and offices in Naarden, The Netherlands, Munich, Germany and Boston, USA. Forbion invests in innovative biotech companies, managing approximately €5 billion across multiple fund strategies that cover all stages of (bio-) pharmaceutical drug development. In addition, Forbion's team consists of over 30 investment professionals who have built an impressive performance track record since the late nineties with 128 investments across 11 funds. Forbion typically selects impactful investments that will positively affect the health and well-being of people and the planet, as well as meet its financial return objectives. The firm is a signatory to the United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment. Forbion operates a joint venture with BGV, the manager of seed and early-stage funds, especially focused on Benelux and Germany.
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Azafaros Secures € 132M in Oversubscribed Series B Financing to Advance Phase 3 Clinical Programs of Innovative Therapies in Lysosomal Storage Disorders
Financing round led by Jeito Capital and co-led by Forbion Growth, with participation from Seroba, Pictet Group and other existing investors Proceeds to fund two Phase 3 pivotal programs with nizubaglustat, lead asset in Niemann-Pick disease Type C (NPC) and GM1/GM2 gangliosidoses as well as expanding the Azafaros pipeline to other indications Nizubaglustat has been awarded Orphan Drug Designation in both the US and Europe as well as Fast-track status in the US. The company expects to initiate both Phase 3 studies later this year LEIDEN, Netherlands, May 13, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Azafaros, a clinical-stage company focused on developing disease-modifying therapeutics to offer new treatment options to patients with rare lysosomal storage disorders, announces the completion of an oversubscribed €132M Series B financing led by Jeito Capital, co-led by Forbion Growth and with additional participation from Seroba, Pictet Group and existing investors Forbion Ventures, Schroders Capital and BioGeneration Ventures (BGV). This financing enables Azafaros to accelerate the development of its lead product nizubaglustat, scheduled to enter Phase 3 studies for Niemann-Pick disease Type C (NPC) and GM1/GM2 gangliosidoses later this year, as well as expanding the Azafaros pipeline to other indications. Rachel Mears, Partner at Jeito Capital; Julien Elric, Senior Principal at Jeito Capital; and Audrey Cacaly, Principal at Forbion Growth will also join Azafaros's Board of Directors as Board members. Founded in 2018 by BGV, leveraging science from Leiden University and Amsterdam UMC, Azafaros is led by a team of highly experienced industry experts in rare disease drug development and commercialization. The company is developing a first-in-class dual-acting drug candidate to offer new treatment options to patients with lysosomal storage disorders, a group of severe rare genetic diseases that often cause progressive neurodegeneration and, in many cases, fatal outcomes. "This successful Series B round marks a significant milestone for Azafaros, allowing us to accelerate the development of nizubaglustat and leverage our scientific understanding and competencies to bring additional candidates into development," said Stefano Portolano, Chief Executive Officer at Azafaros. "The fact that we have been able to attract leading life sciences investors to join our existing, strong group of specialist investors is a testament to the impressive accomplishments of the team and the large unmet medical need that currently exists for patients with these hugely debilitating neurological diseases. We look forward to bringing nizubaglustat to patients." "Azafaros has been impressive in its execution, with nizubaglustat poised to begin Phase 3 clinical development and the potential to significantly improve the lives of NPC and GM1/GM2 patients. We are excited to support and accelerate the Azafaros team in this important next step in the Company's clinical development journey. Leading this round further demonstrates Jeito's commitment to making a meaningful difference in patients' lives by pursuing much needed benefits for those suffering from rare diseases," said Rachel Mears, Partner at Jeito Capital. "Azafaros exemplifies the kind of science-driven, mission-focused company we seek to back. Nizubaglustat has the potential to fundamentally change the treatment landscape for rare genetic diseases, and we are proud to support their journey as they move closer to delivering real hope and this much needed treatment option to patients and families," noted Audrey Cacaly, Principal at Forbion Growth. About nizubaglustat Nizubaglustat is a small molecule, orally available and brain penetrant azasugar with a unique dual mode of action, developed as a potential treatment for rare lysosomal storage disorders with neurological involvement, including GM1 and GM2 gangliosidoses and Niemann-Pick disease Type C (NPC). Nizubaglustat has received Rare Pediatric Disease Designations (RPDD) for the treatment of GM1 and GM2 gangliosidoses and NPC, Orphan Drug Designations (ODD) for GM1 and GM2 gangliosidosis (Sandhoff and Tay-Sachs Diseases) and NPC, as well as Fast Track Designation and IND clearance for GM1/GM2 gangliosidoses and NPC from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Additionally, nizubaglustat has been awarded Orphan Medicinal Product Designation (OMPD) for the treatment of GM1 and GM2 gangliosidoses by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and Innovation Passport for the treatment of GM1 and GM2 gangliosidoses from the UK Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). About GM1 and GM2 gangliosidoses GM1 gangliosidosis and GM2 gangliosidosis (Tay-Sachs and Sandhoff diseases) are lysosomal storage disorders caused by the accumulation of GM1 or GM2 gangliosides respectively, in the central nervous system (CNS), resulting in progressive and severe neurological impairment and premature death. These diseases mostly affect infants and children, and no disease-modifying treatments are currently available. About Niemann-Pick disease Type C (NPC) Niemann-Pick disease Type C is a progressive, life-limiting neurological lysosomal storage disorder caused by mutations in the NPC1 or NPC2 gene and aberrant endosomal-lysosomal trafficking, leading to the accumulation of various lipids, including gangliosides in the CNS. The onset of disease can happen throughout the lifespan of an affected individual, from prenatal life through adulthood. About Azafaros Azafaros is a clinical-stage company founded in 2018 with a deep understanding of rare genetic disease mechanisms using compound discoveries made by scientists at Leiden University and Amsterdam UMC and is led by a team of highly experienced industry experts. Azafaros aims to build a pipeline of disease-modifying therapeutics to offer new treatment options to patients and their families. By applying its knowledge, network and courage, the Azafaros team challenges traditional development pathways to rapidly bring new drugs to the rare disease patients who need them. Azafaros is supported by leading healthcare investors, including Jeito Capital, Forbion Growth, Seroba, Pictet Group and a syndicate of leading Dutch and Swiss existing investors including Forbion Ventures, BioGeneration Ventures (BGV), BioMedPartners, Asahi Kasei Pharma Ventures, and Schroders Capital. About Jeito Capital Jeito Capital is a global leading Private Equity fund with a patient benefit driven approach that finances and accelerates the development and growth of ground-breaking medical innovation. Jeito empowers and supports managers through its expert, integrated, multi-talented team and through the investment of significant capital to ensure the growth of companies, building market leaders in their respective therapeutic areas with accelerated patients' access globally, especially in Europe and the United States. Jeito has built a diversified portfolio of clinical biopharmas with cutting-edge innovations addressing high unmet needs. Jeito Capital is based in Paris with a presence in Europe and the United States. For more information, please visit or follow us on LinkedIn. About Forbion Forbion is a leading global venture capital firm with deep expertise in Europe and offices in Naarden, The Netherlands, Munich, Germany and Boston, USA. Forbion invests in innovative biotech companies, managing approximately €5 billion across multiple fund strategies that cover all stages of (bio-) pharmaceutical drug development. In addition, Forbion's team consists of over 30 investment professionals who have built an impressive performance track record since the late nineties with 128 investments across 11 funds. Forbion typically selects impactful investments that will positively affect the health and well-being of people and the planet, as well as meet its financial return objectives. The firm is a signatory to the United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment. Forbion operates a joint venture with BGV, the manager of seed and early-stage funds, especially focused on Benelux and Germany. View source version on Contacts For further information: Azafaros info@ Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
03-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Jeito Capital announces significant participation in $187 million Series A financing for Callio Therapeutics to advance innovative multi-payload ADC programs designed to maximize therapeutic benefit for cancer patients
Jeito Capital announces significant participation in $187 million Series A financing for Callio Therapeutics to advance innovative multi-payload ADC programs designed to maximize therapeutic benefit for cancer patients Callio Therapeutics is a biotechnology company developing multi-payload ADCs with technology and programs exclusively in-licensed from Singapore-based Hummingbird Bioscience Investment will contribute to achieve clinical proof-of-concept for Callio's HER-2-targeted dual-payload ADC and a second undisclosed ADC program Jeito's investment reinforces its commitment to cutting-edge oncology innovations addressing treatment resistance and improving patient outcomes Paris, March 3rd 2025 – Jeito Capital ('Jeito'), a global leading independent Private Equity fund dedicated to biopharma, announced today its significant participation in the $187 million (€180.2 million1) Series A financing round in Callio Therapeutics ('Callio'), a newly launched biotechnology company focused on realizing the promise of multi-payload antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) to improve cancer therapy. Callio Therapeutics was founded by Frazier Life Sciences to develop next-generation multi-payload antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) based on technology and programs exclusively in-licensed from Singapore-based Hummingbird Bioscience. The company is led by co-founder and CEO Piers Ingram, PhD, alongside a founding management team with deep expertise in ADC development bringing experience from leading biotechnology and biopharmaceutical companies (including Hummingbird Bioscience, ProfoundBio, Silverback Therapeutics, SeaGen, Medarex, and Genentech). The $187 million Series A financing was led by Frazier Life Sciences with significant participation from Jeito alongside an investment syndicate including Novo Holdings A/S Omega Funds, ClavystBio, Platanus, Norwest, Pureos Bioventures, SEEDS Capital and EDBI. The strength of this syndicate underscores the broad confidence in Callio's innovative ADC platform and its potential to reshape cancer therapy. Callio Therapeutics will use the proceeds from the Series A financing to achieve clinical proof-of-concept for its HER2-targeted dual-payload ADC and a second undisclosed ADC program, all designed to maximize therapeutic benefit for cancer patients by overcoming the limitations of single-payload therapies. By enabling the targeted delivery of rational drug combinations to tumor cells, Callio's approach has the potential to significantly enhance efficacy and address resistance mechanisms. Rachel Mears, Partner at Jeito will join Callio's Board of Director as Board member. Through this investment, Jeito reinforces its commitment to supporting transformative oncology innovations that address key resistance mechanisms in cancer treatment. Callio's differentiated multi-payload ADC platform aligns with Jeito's investment thesis of backing high-potential biopharma companies developing next-generation therapies with the potential for global leadership. Dr Rafaèle Tordjman, MD, PhD, Founder and CEO of Jeito Capital said: 'We are pleased to support Callio Therapeutics as it advances its differentiated multi-payload ADC platform to address some of the biggest challenges in oncology. As long-standing investors in this therapeutic area, we recognize the quality and potential of Callio's approach to overcome resistance mechanisms and improve outcomes for patients with hard-to-treat cancers. At Jeito, we believe that strategic collaboration and bold innovation are key to accelerating the next generation of targeted therapies, and we look forward to working alongside the Callio team to bring these advances to patients in need. ' Rachel Mears, Parner at Jeito Capital added: 'Callio is a highly innovative company that benefits from an experienced management team and deep expertise in oncology, where new therapies remain highly needed for those suffering from various forms of cancer. We look forward to collaborating with Callio's team through our collective knowledge and expertise in both ADC and oncology with the ambition to go faster to patients with high unmet needs. ' Piers Ingram, PhD, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Callio Therapeutics concluded: 'We are delighted to be launching Callio Therapeutics with this very strong syndicate of investors. Multi-payload ADCs have the potential to enable the targeted delivery of rational drug combinations to cancer cells, and may provide significantly enhanced efficacy. This new generation of ADC therapies may meaningfully improve outcomes for patients.' About Jeito CapitalJeito Capital is a global leading Private Equity fund with a patient benefit driven approach that finances and accelerates the development and growth of ground-breaking medical innovation. Jeito empowers and supports managers through its expert, integrated, multi-talented team and through the investment of significant capital to ensure the growth of companies, building market leaders in their respective therapeutic areas with accelerated patients' access globally, especially in Europe and the United States. Jeito Capital has €534 million under management and a rapidly growing portfolio of investments. Jeito Capital is based in Paris with a presence in Europe and the United more information, please visit or follow us on LinkedIn or X. About Callio Therapeutics Headquartered in Seattle and Singapore, Callio Therapeutics is focused on realizing the promise of multi-payload antibody-drug conjugates to transform cancer patient outcomes. The company is developing next-generation, multi-payload antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) that feature differentiated payload and linker technologies that enable targeted delivery of multi agents to tumor cells to maximize therapeutic benefit. Callio Therapeutics' lead program is a HER2-targeted dual-payload ADC. Callio Therapeutics was created by Frazier Life Sciences, a longstanding investment firm focused on innovative therapeutics, based on ADC technology and programs exclusively in-licensed from Hummingbird Bioscience. For more information , please visit and follow Callio Therapeutics on LinkedIn. Contacts:Jeito Capital Rafaèle Tordjman, Founder & CEOJessica Fadel, EATel: +33 6 33 44 25 47 MaiorStéphanie Elbaz – Tel: +33 6 46 05 08 07 ICR HealthcareMary-Jane Elliott / Davide Salvi / Kris LamJeito@ +44 (0) 20 3709 5700 1 EUR/USD exchange rate: 1 EUR = 1.0377 USD date February 7, 2025 (source: Banque de France)Sign in to access your portfolio
Associated Press
03-03-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Jeito Capital announces significant participation in $187 million Series A financing for Callio Therapeutics to advance innovative multi-payload ADC programs designed to maximize therapeutic benefit for cancer patients
Jeito Capital announces significant participation in $187 million Series A financing for Callio Therapeutics to advance innovative multi-payload ADC programs designed to maximize therapeutic benefit for cancer patients Callio Therapeutics is a biotechnology company developing multi-payload ADCs with technology and programs exclusively in-licensed from Singapore-based Hummingbird Bioscience Investment will contribute to achieve clinical proof-of-concept for Callio's HER-2-targeted dual-payload ADC and a second undisclosed ADC program Jeito's investment reinforces its commitment to cutting-edge oncology innovations addressing treatment resistance and improving patient outcomes Paris, March 3rd 2025 – Jeito Capital ('Jeito'), a global leading independent Private Equity fund dedicated to biopharma, announced today its significant participation in the $187 million (€180.2 million1) Series A financing round in Callio Therapeutics ('Callio'), a newly launched biotechnology company focused on realizing the promise of multi-payload antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) to improve cancer therapy. Callio Therapeutics was founded by Frazier Life Sciences to develop next-generation multi-payload antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) based on technology and programs exclusively in-licensed from Singapore-based Hummingbird Bioscience. The company is led by co-founder and CEO Piers Ingram, PhD, alongside a founding management team with deep expertise in ADC development bringing experience from leading biotechnology and biopharmaceutical companies (including Hummingbird Bioscience, ProfoundBio, Silverback Therapeutics, SeaGen, Medarex, and Genentech). The $187 million Series A financing was led by Frazier Life Sciences with significant participation from Jeito alongside an investment syndicate including Novo Holdings A/S Omega Funds, ClavystBio, Platanus, Norwest, Pureos Bioventures, SEEDS Capital and EDBI. The strength of this syndicate underscores the broad confidence in Callio's innovative ADC platform and its potential to reshape cancer therapy. Callio Therapeutics will use the proceeds from the Series A financing to achieve clinical proof-of-concept for its HER2-targeted dual-payload ADC and a second undisclosed ADC program, all designed to maximize therapeutic benefit for cancer patients by overcoming the limitations of single-payload therapies. By enabling the targeted delivery of rational drug combinations to tumor cells, Callio's approach has the potential to significantly enhance efficacy and address resistance mechanisms. Rachel Mears, Partner at Jeito will join Callio's Board of Director as Board member. Through this investment, Jeito reinforces its commitment to supporting transformative oncology innovations that address key resistance mechanisms in cancer treatment. Callio's differentiated multi-payload ADC platform aligns with Jeito's investment thesis of backing high-potential biopharma companies developing next-generation therapies with the potential for global leadership. Dr Rafaèle Tordjman, MD, PhD, Founder and CEO of Jeito Capital said: ' We are pleased to support Callio Therapeutics as it advances its differentiated multi-payload ADC platform to address some of the biggest challenges in oncology. As long-standing investors in this therapeutic area, we recognize the quality and potential of Callio's approach to overcome resistance mechanisms and improve outcomes for patients with hard-to-treat cancers. At Jeito, we believe that strategic collaboration and bold innovation are key to accelerating the next generation of targeted therapies, and we look forward to working alongside the Callio team to bring these advances to patients in need. ' Rachel Mears, Parner at Jeito Capital added: ' Callio is a highly innovative company that benefits from an experienced management team and deep expertise in oncology, where new therapies remain highly needed for those suffering from various forms of cancer. We look forward to collaborating with Callio's team through our collective knowledge and expertise in both ADC and oncology with the ambition to go faster to patients with high unmet needs. ' Piers Ingram, PhD, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Callio Therapeutics concluded: ' We are delighted to be launching Callio Therapeutics with this very strong syndicate of investors. Multi-payload ADCs have the potential to enable the targeted delivery of rational drug combinations to cancer cells, and may provide significantly enhanced efficacy. This new generation of ADC therapies may meaningfully improve outcomes for patients.' About Jeito Capital Jeito Capital is a global leading Private Equity fund with a patient benefit driven approach that finances and accelerates the development and growth of ground-breaking medical innovation. Jeito empowers and supports managers through its expert, integrated, multi-talented team and through the investment of significant capital to ensure the growth of companies, building market leaders in their respective therapeutic areas with accelerated patients' access globally, especially in Europe and the United States. Jeito Capital has €534 million under management and a rapidly growing portfolio of investments. Jeito Capital is based in Paris with a presence in Europe and the United States. For more information, please visit or follow us on LinkedIn or X. About Callio Therapeutics Headquartered in Seattle and Singapore, Callio Therapeutics is focused on realizing the promise of multi-payload antibody-drug conjugates to transform cancer patient outcomes. The company is developing next-generation, multi-payload antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) that feature differentiated payload and linker technologies that enable targeted delivery of multi agents to tumor cells to maximize therapeutic benefit. Callio Therapeutics' lead program is a HER2-targeted dual-payload ADC. Callio Therapeutics was created by Frazier Life Sciences, a longstanding investment firm focused on innovative therapeutics, based on ADC technology and programs exclusively in-licensed from Hummingbird Bioscience. For more information , please visit and follow Callio Therapeutics on LinkedIn. Contacts: Jeito Capital Rafaèle Tordjman, Founder & CEO Jessica Fadel, EA Tel: +33 6 33 44 25 47 Maior Stéphanie Elbaz – Tel: +33 6 46 05 08 07 ICR Healthcare Mary-Jane Elliott / Davide Salvi / Kris Lam
