EQT Life Sciences Leads Series B Extension for Noema Pharma, Totaling CHF 130 Million

EQT Life Sciences has announced a significant investment in Noema Pharma, a biotechnology company based in Basel, Switzerland, that is actively developing treatments for central nervous system (CNS) disorders. This investment comes as part of a Series B funding extension, bringing the total capital raised to CHF 130 million. The round includes contributions from notable investors such as Forbion, Jeito Capital, Sofinnova Partners, Gilde Healthcare, Polaris Partners, Invus, and UPMC Enterprises.

CNS disorders represent a critical area of unmet medical need, impacting millions globally. Many of these conditions present complex challenges and lack effective therapeutic solutions, often leaving patients with inadequate treatment options that have limited success and significant side effects. Noema Pharma aims to tackle these issues head-on by utilizing a diverse portfolio of neurological assets and an innovative clinical pipeline. This strategy positions the company to potentially deliver transformative treatments for these debilitating conditions.

The financial infusion from EQT Life Sciences and other investors will be directed towards advancing Noema Pharma's clinical-stage assets. Among these is the lead candidate basimglurant (NOE-101), an mGluR5 inhibitor currently undergoing Phase 2 trials aimed at addressing severe pain in trigeminal neuralgia and seizures associated with tuberous sclerosis complex. Furthermore, the company is progressing with gemlapodect (NOE-105), targeting Tourette syndrome and childhood onset fluency disorder, and NOE-115, a monoamine modulator in trials for managing vasomotor symptoms and other menopausal symptoms.

The company's clinical strategy includes four active Phase 2 trials, with significant trial outcomes anticipated in 2025. This development could mark a milestone in providing new hope and solutions for patients suffering from these complex neurological disorders.

Dr. Ilise Lombardo, the CEO of Noema Pharma, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with EQT Life Sciences, highlighting the benefits of their support and expertise. She noted that the involvement of EQT Life Sciences would be pivotal as the company pushes forward with its clinical programs, aiming to make a substantial impact on patients' lives.

Felice Verduyn-van Weegen, a Partner at EQT, will join Noema Pharma's Board of Directors. He emphasized the alignment of Noema Pharma's innovative approach to CNS disorders with EQT Life Sciences' investment strategy. Verduyn-van Weegen also acknowledged Dr. Lombardo's exceptional leadership, noting that her track record as a repeat entrepreneur enhances confidence in Noema Pharma's potential to deliver impactful therapies to patients in need.

This investment underscores a shared vision between Noema Pharma and its investors to advance the development of treatments for neurological diseases that have long been underserved. Through this strategic partnership, the company is well-positioned to continue its mission of addressing critical gaps in CNS disorder treatments, offering renewed hope to many patients who currently have limited options.