Hubble Therapeutics Secures Series A Funding for LCA16 Gene Therapy Development

HANOVER, N.H., March 25, 2025 – Hubble Therapeutics LLC, a biotechnology firm focused on patient-centric solutions, has announced the successful completion of a $7.3 million Series A funding round. This financial milestone is aimed at progressing its primary therapeutic candidate, HUB-101, into clinical trials for human subjects. HUB-101 is a gene therapy designed to treat two rare and severe eye conditions: Leber Congenital Amaurosis Type 16 (LCA16) and Snowflake Vitreoretinal Degeneration (SVD).

These conditions are characterized by early-onset retinal dystrophies, primarily affecting children under five years old, leading to progressive vision loss and, ultimately, blindness over the next twenty years. The disorders are linked to mutations in the KCNJ13 gene, which is vital for the retina's pigment epithelium cells. The innovative therapy was developed by Dr. Bikash Pattnaik of the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s School of Medicine and Public Health and is licensed through the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (WARF).

Dr. Pattnaik, a professor at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and a scientific co-founder of Hubble Therapeutics, has dedicated over two decades to researching ion channelopathy models. His work aims to develop curative gene therapies for various forms of pediatric blindness. He expressed optimism about HUB-101, stating that it represents not only a scientific breakthrough but also a beacon of hope for affected patients and their families. The therapy seeks to rectify the fundamental problems caused by defective ion channels, paving the way for future ion channel therapies to address genetic diseases effectively.

HUB-101 has already been granted Rare Pediatric Disease and Orphan Disease Designations by the FDA. The company has partnered with Andelyn Biosciences and Virscio to advance the therapy through manufacturing and IND-enabling studies. Hubble Therapeutics plans to begin Phase I/II clinical trials by 2026, focusing on establishing the therapy's safety and efficacy.

Greg Keenan, Senior Director of WARF Ventures & Accelerator and a member of the Hubble Therapeutics Board of Directors, expressed enthusiasm about the progress. He highlighted the collaboration between Hubble Therapeutics and the research led by Dr. Pattnaik as an exemplary model of how academic-industry partnerships can drive transformative research. WARF’s co-lead investment in the Series A funding round underscores its commitment to supporting the development of impactful treatments.

Jeff Sabados, Founder and President of Hubble Therapeutics, acknowledged the invaluable support from investors, scientists, industry experts, and patient families. He emphasized the company's mission to enhance vision for those suffering from LCA16 and SVD. With the recent financing and strategic partnerships, Hubble Therapeutics aims to scale up the production of HUB-101 and undertake additional studies to facilitate clinical entry within the next two years, fulfilling their commitment to supporting affected families globally.

Hubble Therapeutics LLC is committed to leveraging gene delivery technology to address the genetic mutations underlying these debilitating conditions. The company's dedicated team of scientists and partners is focused on ensuring that their therapies are both safe and effective. Through collaboration and innovation, Hubble Therapeutics strives to offer hope and improve the quality of life for individuals battling LCA16 and SVD, aiming for a brighter future.