Abcuro Secures $200M Series C to Develop Inclusion Body Myositis Drug

In a significant move in the biotechnology sector, Abcuro, Inc., based in Newton, Massachusetts, has announced the successful closure of a $200 million Series C financing round. This funding was spearheaded by New Enterprise Associates (NEA) and saw the participation of Foresite Capital as well as existing investors such as RA Capital Management, Bain Capital Life Sciences, Redmile Group, Samsara BioCapital, Sanofi Ventures, Pontifax, Mass General Brigham Ventures, funds managed by abrdn Inc., BlackRock, Eurofarma Ventures, and Soleus Capital.

The raised capital is earmarked for advancing Abcuro's groundbreaking clinical trials, specifically the Phase 2/3 MUSCLE clinical trial of ulviprubart (ABC008). This innovative monoclonal antibody targets the killer cell lectin-like receptor G1 (KLRG1) and is being evaluated for its efficacy in treating inclusion body myositis (IBM). Should the trial yield positive outcomes, Abcuro plans to submit a Biologics License Application (BLA) and channel funds towards preparations for the commercial launch of ulviprubart.

Alex Martin, the Chief Executive Officer of Abcuro, expressed optimism about the company's strategic direction. He emphasized that the continued investor support highlights the potential of ulviprubart as a unique treatment for severe diseases driven by highly cytotoxic T cells, such as IBM. Martin further noted that the company is well-positioned to advance its clinical development plans, with initial data from the trial expected in the first half of 2026. Additionally, Abcuro intends to invest in expanding manufacturing capabilities and other pre-commercial activities within the year.

Michele Park, PhD, a Partner at NEA, described Abcuro as a promising venture, with ulviprubart offering a potentially transformative approach to the treatment of IBM, a condition with significant unmet medical needs. The drug's unique mechanism selectively targets cytotoxic T cells, a strategy supported by encouraging clinical and preclinical data.

Ulviprubart, also known as ABC008, represents a first-in-class anti-KLRG1 antibody designed to selectively deplete highly cytotoxic T cells while preserving naïve, regulatory, and central memory T cells. It holds promise for treating diseases influenced by these T cells, including IBM and T cell large granular lymphocytic leukemia (T-LGLL). Both the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) have recognized the potential of ulviprubart by granting it orphan drug designation for IBM treatment.

Inclusion body myositis (IBM) is a debilitating autoimmune disorder characterized by the chronic attack of muscle tissue by highly cytotoxic T cells, leading to progressive muscle weakness and atrophy. Patients often experience a decline in muscle function, affecting grip, dexterity, and mobility. Currently, there are no disease-modifying treatments available for IBM. Epidemiological data estimate that IBM affects over 50,000 individuals across the United States and Europe.

Abcuro stands at the forefront of developing pioneering immunotherapies aimed at autoimmune diseases and cancer by precisely targeting highly cytotoxic T cells. The company's leading program, ulviprubart, is undergoing clinical trials for its potential use in IBM and T cell large granular lymphocytic leukemia.

This strategic financing round and the progress of ulviprubart highlight Abcuro's commitment to addressing critical gaps in treatment options for challenging autoimmune diseases.