Inflammasome specialist NodThera Ltd raises €31.8m

NodThera is developing small molecule inhibitors of the NLRP3 inflammasome, a major stress sensor of the innate immune system, particularly expressed in myeloid cells, that trigger a proinflammatory IL-1beta- and IL18-driven immune reaction in response to internal and external danger signals. NodThera’s inihibitors of the NLRP3 inflammsome have the potential to treat a range of chronic inflammations including neurodegenerative disorders, metabolic and autoimmune diseases (gout, rheumatoid arthritis) or cancer by suppressing induction of the proinflammatory immune response. Although neurologic and metabolic disorders are not traditionally considered to be inflammatory, the contribution of the inflammatory component is increasingly being recognised. Besides orphan diseases this adds potential in much more prevalent diseases, including neurodegenerative conditions (multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease) and metabolic disorders (atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes and obesity). 

NodThera was seed-funded by Epidarex Capital in 2016 based on research from Selvita, which held 49% in NodThera before the Series A financing. Specifically, Selvita worked on the preclinical NALP3 inflammasome modulator SEL212. The NodThera strategy is to develop its lead drug candidate through to proof-of-concept in humans in an inflammatory disease and to bring forward further drug candidates specifically addressing high unmet medical needs. 

As a consequence of the financing, Henrijette Richter, PhD, Managing Partner of Sofinnova Partners and Scott Rocklage, PhD, Founding Partner of 5AM Ventures will both join the Board of Directors with Henrijette Richter serving as Chair.