Blackstone Life Sciences Introduces Uniquity Bio for Immunology & Inflammation Medicines

Blackstone (NYSE:BX) has unveiled its new portfolio company, Uniquity Bio, which specializes in drug development focusing on immunology and inflammation. With FDA approval for its Phase 2 investigational new drug (IND) application for solrikitug, a monoclonal antibody aimed at TSLP, Uniquity Bio is now set to advance this promising medication thanks to up to $300 million in funding from Blackstone.

Uniquity Bio aims to address critical respiratory and gastrointestinal conditions with solrikitug, an anti-TSLP monoclonal antibody that inhibits TSLP from binding to its receptors. TSLP is a key cytokine in the inflammatory cascade, making solrikitug potentially useful for a wide range of immunology and inflammation applications.

The company will commence Phase 2 clinical trials imminently for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), COPD is the third leading cause of death globally, while asthma affects over 260 million individuals worldwide.

Nicholas Galakatos, Ph.D., Global Head of Blackstone Life Sciences, emphasized the significance of their investment in Uniquity Bio, highlighting Blackstone Life Sciences’ commitment to developing transformative medicines for patients globally. He expressed confidence in Uniquity Bio's experienced team as they push solrikitug forward and expand their pipeline.

Solrikitug was originally licensed from Merck & Co., Inc. (MSD outside the U.S. and Canada), and Uniquity Bio aims to maximize its potential. CEO Brian Lortie remarked on solrikitug's potential to become a life-changing treatment for patients with limited options. Lortie underscored that Uniquity Bio combines the scientific rigor and standards of a global pharmaceutical company with the operational agility of a biotech startup.

Supporting this sentiment, Kiran Reddy, MD, Senior Managing Director with Blackstone Life Sciences, added that Uniquity Bio's launch with a Phase 2-ready drug exemplifies Blackstone's strategy of pairing financial backing with expertise to expedite mission-critical medicines. Blackstone is committed to long-term financial support for Uniquity Bio.

Uniquity Bio was founded by seasoned industry executives with a proven history of developing new immunology and inflammation therapies and advancing clinical programs from development to commercialization. With Blackstone Life Sciences’ robust financial support, Uniquity Bio boasts a sustainable business model that enables the parallel development of high-potential treatments and diverse collaboration structures.

The global market for immunology and inflammation therapies is expansive and growing rapidly. Fortune Business Insights projects it will surge from $98 billion in 2023 to $257 billion by 2032. This substantial market interest underscores the critical need for innovative treatments in this field.

Stephen Tullman, Executive Chairman of Uniquity Bio, expressed confidence in the company's ability to develop groundbreaking therapeutics and partner with leading pharmaceutical firms globally. Tullman is optimistic that Uniquity Bio's work will yield new and valuable medications for individuals suffering from immune-mediated diseases.

In summary, Blackstone’s significant investment in Uniquity Bio signifies a strong commitment to advancing innovative treatments for serious respiratory and gastrointestinal conditions. With a promising monoclonal antibody poised for Phase 2 trials and a robust, experienced team, Uniquity Bio is well-positioned to make substantial contributions to the field of immunology and inflammation.

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