InBC has invested in Reverb Therapeutics, a Vancouver-based biotechnology company harnessing the body’s natural immune system and cytokine signalling to treat life-threatening diseases.
Reverb Therapeutic’s novel antibody-based Amplify•R™ platform combines bispecific antibody engineering with data-driven modelling of antibody interactions to amplify and redirect endogenous cytokines to tissues of interest. By redirecting the body’s naturally occurring cytokines, this approach avoids the hurdles seen in other treatments using lab-produced cytokines, such as systemic exposure to other parts of the body or immunogenicity — a provoked immune response to a foreign substance.
“We are excited to have the backing of this standout group of investors as we advance the Amplify•R platform. The Amplify•R platform has broad potential across many cytokines. With this funding, we will take our lead IL-15 bispecific program to the candidate stage and will develop additional bispecific programs spanning other cytokines and additional cellular targets.”
— David de Graaf, Ph.D, CEO of Reverb Therapeutics
Reverb’s technology is presenting an exciting potential treatment for a broad range of diseases. Preclinical studies have established the platform’s ability to redirect cytokines and shrink tumours, and the company’s initial focus will be on the treatment of cancer and autoimmune diseases. With this investment, it will continue to advance its therapeutics well as develop additional programs.
InBC invested in Reverb Therapeutics alongside other investors. This investment is working in parallel with the B.C. Life Sciences and Biomanufacturing Strategy to support a key growth sector in B.C., including supporting the growth and retention of research and development and intellectual property in the province. British Columbia is currently home to the fastest growing life sciences sector in Canada, employing over 20,000 people.
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