Nova Anchora raised $23 million in equity financing to advance a topical protein therapy for dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. Viking Global Investors led the round. Venture philanthropy backers included DEBRA Research, EB Research Partnership, EB Medical Research Foundation, and Cure EB.
Use of proceeds
The financing includes an initial tranche and additional capital tied to development milestones. Nova Anchora will use the funds to complete IND-enabling studies and manufacture clinical supply. The company also plans to submit an IND application and run an initial clinical proof-of-concept study.
Company background
Nova Anchora is a biotechnology company focused on DEB. Jason Bhardwaj and Dr. Peter Marinkovich co-founded the company. EB Research Partnership provided early philanthropic support for the underlying Stanford research.
What NvA-021 does
NvA-021 is an investigational topical gel containing recombinant human collagen VII. It is designed for use during routine bandage changes. The therapy aims to restore anchoring structures between the epidermis and dermis.
Nova Anchora has received pre-IND feedback from the FDA. NvA-021 also holds Orphan Drug and Rare Pediatric Disease designations. The therapy remains investigational, with safety and efficacy not yet established.