Although antibodies play a key role in neutralizing invading bacteria and viruses, sometimes these protective proteins can turn against the body’s own tissues, sparking an autoimmune disorder.
Syntimmune’s leaders believe their company has found a way to block the immune system’s attack on the body. And now the biotech has $50 million to advance its lead drug through clinical trials in two rare diseases. Apple Tree Partners led the Series B investment round with a $48 million commitment. Earlier backers also joined in the financing for the New York-based company, which has now raised $78 million total from investors.
David de Graaf, CEO of Syntimmune, says the company’s drug SYNT001 blocks a molecule called neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn). That molecule regulates a blood protein called immunoglobulin G (IgG), which has a role in fighting infections.
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