Kamari Pharma Secures $23M to Develop TRPV3 Inhibitor for Genetic Skin Diseases

Kamari Pharma, a biotechnology company based in Ness Ziona, Israel, has successfully secured a $23 million Series A funding round. This investment was co-led by the BRM Group, a new investor, and Pontifax, an existing investor. Additional investors also participated in this round. The funds raised will be utilized to advance the company's lead program, KM023, into clinical development. KM023 is an innovative oral TRPV3 inhibitor, designed as a first-in-class treatment for three rare genetic skin diseases: Olmsted syndrome, severe keratoderma, and ichthyosis.

Kamari Pharma plans to commence clinical trials for these conditions, beginning with Olmsted syndrome. The first proof-of-concept trial for this indication is scheduled to start in the latter half of 2025, with initial results expected by the end of that year.

Dr. David Aviezer, CEO of Kamari Pharma, highlighted the significance of the investment from BRM and Pontifax. He noted that this financial backing underscores the potential of the oral TRPV3 inhibitor, KM023, to emerge as a pioneering treatment for several rare dermatological conditions. The investment enables Kamari Pharma to expedite the development of KM023, aiming to provide data on its effectiveness in patients with Olmsted syndrome by year-end.

Alon Maor, a partner at BRM Group, emphasized Kamari’s unique approach in targeting the TRPV3 pathway, a critical regulator in skin diseases. This strategy sets Kamari apart in the realm of rare dermatological disorders. Maor expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with Kamari's seasoned board and team, leveraging their vast experience in the development of treatments for rare diseases to deliver innovative, safe, and effective therapies to patients.

Ran Nussbaum, managing partner at Pontifax, expressed confidence in Kamari Pharma’s scientific achievements and progress. Pontifax, as the founder and initial investor in the company, alongside BRM Group, believes in Kamari’s potential to significantly improve the lives of individuals affected by rare genetic skin disorders influenced by the TRPV3 pathway. Nussbaum praised Kamari’s drug development team, highlighting their capability to drive substantial advancements in the field.

Kamari Pharma specializes in developing therapies for rare and severe genetic skin disorders. Their lead candidate, KM023, represents a novel, highly specific, and selective oral TRPV3 inhibitor initially intended for Olmsted syndrome and severe keratodermas. Additionally, Kamari is developing a topical drug, KM001, which has shown promise in early clinical trials involving keratoderma patients. The company’s leadership consists of experts with extensive experience in drug discovery, dermatological pharmaceuticals, and the development of treatments for rare diseases.

By focusing on these innovative treatments, Kamari Pharma aims to make significant strides in addressing unmet medical needs within the domain of rare genetic skin diseases. The support from investors like BRM Group and Pontifax will be instrumental in advancing their clinical programs and bringing new hope to patients worldwide.