Mysthera Therapeutics Launches Initiative to Develop Innovative Therapies for Autoimmune Diseases
Tuesday, August 22, 2023
Mysthera Therapeutics AG has just launched with a starting investment of $3.5 million from its initial investor, Forty51 Ventures. The company's main focus is on developing novel oral treatments for complex autoimmune disorders. The funds from this initial investment will play a crucial role in advancing the development of their pan-PIM kinase inhibitors, currently in the pre-clinical stage. These inhibitors possess a unique capability to modulate the functions of immune cells across various lineages.
PIM kinases, pivotal in the functioning of different immune cell types including B and T effector cells, are central to the promotion of excessive inflammation. There is a correlation between elevated PIM kinase activity and the formation and persistence of tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS), which are closely connected to the severity and progression of autoimmune diseases.
In the United States alone, over 23 million individuals are affected by autoimmune diseases. Despite recent progress and emerging therapeutic options, there are still significant gaps in addressing these conditions. The current treatments often fall short due to their inadequate response rates and undesirable safety profiles.
Mysthera Therapeutics has assembled a management team and board of directors with substantial expertise, leadership skills, and proven track records in research and development.
Darren Cunningham, co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Mysthera Therapeutics, has expressed confidence in the company's approach, stating, "With our in-depth knowledge of PIM kinase and immunology, we are embarking on a unique strategy to confront complex autoimmune diseases. We firmly believe that our efforts will lead to groundbreaking treatments that can transform the lives of patients worldwide."
Dr. Stefan Haak, co-Founder and Senior Vice President of Research and Development at Mysthera Therapeutics, went on to elaborate on their method, saying, "By targeting PIM inhibition, we are specifically addressing effector B and T cells at the sites of inflammation, effectively curbing their activation. What sets our approach apart is its ability to disrupt the critical communication between these cells, thereby obstructing the formation of pathogenic TLS linked to more aggressive forms of the disease."
