Summary:
Callio Therapeutics raises $187 million in Series A funding.
Innovative multi-payload ADC technology licensed from Hummingbird Bioscience.
Targets cancer protein HER2 with enhanced efficacy against tumors.
Dive Brief:
- Callio Therapeutics has launched with a remarkable $187 million in Series A funding, aiming to innovate cancer treatment through a unique multi-payload antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) technology.
- This groundbreaking technology, licensed from Hummingbird Bioscience, allows Callio to develop ADCs that can carry multiple tumor-killing payloads, enhancing their effectiveness against cancer cells.
- Headquartered in Seattle and Singapore, Callio was founded by Frazier Life Sciences and has attracted investment from notable firms including Jeito Capital, Novo Holdings, and Omega Funds.
Dive Insight:
The increasing interest in ADCs stems from recent technical advancements and clinical trial successes that have shown their potential to improve upon standard chemotherapy methods. Unlike traditional therapies, ADCs are designed to deliver cytotoxic drugs directly to cancer cells, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. A prime example is Enhertu, which has transformed treatment protocols for breast cancer and has become a multibillion-dollar product for its manufacturers.
Callio’s lead ADC targets the HER2 protein, similar to Enhertu, but distinguishes itself by carrying multiple payloads. This innovative approach is expected to boost potency and help overcome resistance issues seen in existing ADCs.
Piers Ingram, CEO and co-founder of Callio, emphasized the potential of multi-payload ADCs to deliver rational drug combinations directly to cancer cells, aiming for significantly enhanced efficacy. The executive team includes experienced members from both Callio and Hummingbird, ensuring strong leadership as they embark on this journey to revolutionize cancer care.
Comments