Shanghai-based Neukio Biotherapeutics, a developer of iPSC-derived chimeric antigen receptor natural killer (CAR-NK) cell therapies, announced the completion of a USD 50 million Series A-1 financing round. The funding, led by CD Capital, will support pre-clinical validation, clinical trials, and talent recruitment for its universal off-the-shelf CAR-NK pipeline.
Financing Details
The round included participation from Alwin Capital, Kuanyu Capital, and existing investors Lilly Asia Ventures, Sherpa Healthcare Partners, and IDG Capital. Proceeds will accelerate development of Neukio’s iPSC-CAR-NK platform, targeting hematologic malignancies and solid tumors.
Founder’s Track Record
Dr. Wang Liqun, Neukio’s founder and chairman, previously served as CEO of Fosun Kite Biotechnology, the joint venture between Fosun Pharma (600196.SH) and Gilead’s Kite Pharma. Under his leadership, Fosun Kite secured China’s first CAR-T approval for Yescarta (axicabtagene ciloleucel) in under four years.
Strategic Outlook
Neukio’s iPSC-CAR-NK approach aims to overcome manufacturing scalability challenges in cell therapy. The Series A-1 funding positions the firm to advance its lead candidates into clinical stages, leveraging Dr. Wang’s experience in navigating China’s regulatory landscape.-Fineline Info & Tech
