Chengdu-based gene therapy firm R&B Biotech has reportedly secured over RMB 200 million (USD 29.64 million) in a Series A+ financing round. The round was led by SDIC Venture Capital, with participation from Panlin Capital, Essence Fund’s healthcare fund, and existing investor Loyal Valley Capital. The proceeds will be allocated towards clinical trials, preclinical pipeline expansion, and talent recruitment.
Funding and Pipeline Development
Founded in 2018, R&B Bio specializes in rAAV (recombinant adeno-associated virus) gene therapy and has built a robust product pipeline targeting diseases across multiple systems, including blood, the central nervous system, and metabolism. The company’s lead candidate, ZS801, a gene therapy for hemophilia B, obtained clinical trial approval in China in August of last year. ZS801 is the first domestically developed gene therapy for hemophilia B to receive clinical approval in China.
Clinical Progress and Milestones
ZS801 is currently being evaluated for safety and efficacy in a clinical study at the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences’ blood disease hospital. Early results have shown significant improvement in plasma FIX (Factor IX) activity levels in the first subject, alongside positive safety outcomes. This progress underscores R&B Bio’s commitment to advancing innovative gene therapies for rare diseases.-Fineline Info & Tech
