Tianjin-based ConjuStar, a peptide-drug conjugate (PDC) developer incubated by Fosun Pharma and Wuxi Apptec, has reportedly raised RMB 55 million (USD 7.93 million) in an angel financing round. The round was led by Fosun Health Capital, with participation from Tahoe Venture Capital and other investors. The proceeds will be directed towards the development of two PDC products, Investigational New Drug (IND) filings, and the construction of an early research and development platform.
PDC: A Promising Drug Delivery System
PDC is a new molecular drug delivery system with significant potential for clinical transformation. It is composed of a homing peptide, linker, and load. The biologically active load is connected to homing peptides through the linker, which can specifically recognize membrane receptors on tumor cells. This targeted approach reduces toxicity and side effects while enhancing treatment efficacy. Compared to antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), PDCs offer several advantages, including a smaller molecular weight, stronger penetration, lower immunogenicity, a wider selection of toxic drugs, and lower production costs.
ConjuStar’s Product Pipeline
ConjuStar currently has three products at the pre-clinical stage, including SC-101, a Nectin-4-targeted PDC. SC-101 is expected to file for IND later this year and enter clinical trials next year. In addition to PDCs, the company is also exploring radionuclide drug conjugates (RACs), nanobody drug conjugates (NDCs), and other innovative drug conjugate technologies.
Strategic Implications
The angel financing round led by Fosun Health Capital underscores the confidence of investors in ConjuStar’s innovative approach to drug development. By securing significant funding, ConjuStar is well-positioned to advance its PDC product pipeline and contribute to the development of next-generation drug conjugates. This strategic move is expected to enhance ConjuStar’s market presence and contribute to the advancement of targeted cancer therapies.-Fineline Info & Tech
