Versameb, a biopharmaceutical company focusing on the development of novel RNA-based therapeutics using its proprietary VERSagile technology platform, has today announced the closing of a CHF 6 million seed round. The company has also appointed a new chief development officer to oversee its preclinical and clinical development.
Based in Basel, Versameb is developing innovative ribonucleic acid (RNA) therapeutics based on its proprietary VERSagile technology platform. Versameb developed a unique proprietary molecular algorithm that has the potential to make mRNA therapies more effective. Molecular engineering mRNA sequences with the VERSagile technology platform generates molecules optimized for improved protein secretion and allows for modulation of different therapeutic targets. Versameb currently develops molecules targeting regulation of immune response or regeneration in the fields of dermatology, oncology and myology.
Having validated its platform for the defined therapeutic targets and established preclinical proof of principle, Versameb is ready for the next steps which will be funded by the CHF 6 million obtained in the seed round. The startup will progress its lead asset towards the clinical stage by the end of 2021 and advance additional applications in therapeutic areas of high unmet medical need, creating an attractive and balanced portfolio.
Versameb strengthens the management team
In line with the investment round, the company strengthened its management board with Klaas P. Zuideveld as the Chief Development Officer (CDO). Zuideveld held the position of Vice President Pharmaceutical partnerships at Caris Life Sciences, where he was responsible for the company’s first companion diagnostic partnership, and precision medicine led clinical trials. Prior to that, Zuideveld held leadership positions in drug development and consulted for Pharsight (acquired by Certara), F. Hoffmann-La Roche, Mosaic Biomedicals (acquired by Northern Biologics) and Therachon (acquired by Pfizer).
“Klaas brings a rare combination of scientific excellence and strong operational expertise to this role. With his extensive experience in developing therapeutics, from early discovery stages through clinical trials, he will oversee Versameb's preclinical and clinical development. Versameb is as the company advances towards planning and executing clinical development programs,” says Friedrich Metzger, CEO and Co-founder of Versameb.
(Press release)
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