Artax Biopharma is a Cambridge, MA-based clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on improving treatment of T cell-driven autoimmune diseases. Its lead asset, AX-158, is the first in a new class of Nck blockers designed to selectively target Nck function and recalibrate T-cell receptor responses. The company’s oral small molecules aim to modulate the immune system without broad immunosuppression, allowing normal immune activation while preventing self-activation. Artax intends to develop its approach both as monotherapy and in combination with other treatments. Results from a Phase 2a clinical trial in psoriasis are expected before year-end. The company is led by CEO Rob Armstrong. Artax Biopharma, led by CEO Joseph Lobacki, is a Cambridge, MA–based clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative small molecules that modulate the immune system. Its lead program, AX-158, is a first-in-class oral small-molecule immunomodulating agent in clinical development for T cell–mediated diseases. AX-158 employs a first-in-class mechanism of action that selectively modulates inappropriate T cell activation, with the aim of treating autoimmune and other T cell–mediated disorders without causing immunosuppression. The company is conducting an ongoing Phase 1 trial assessing the safety, exposure, and pharmacokinetics of AX-158 in healthy volunteers and includes ex vivo stimulated measures of pharmacodynamic activity. In preclinical studies AX-158 decreased key cytokines including IFNγ, TNFα, IL-2, IL-1 and IL-6 in whole human blood samples. Artax intends to use the newly raised funds to advance development of AX-158 across its targeted indications. Artax Biopharma, led by CEO Joseph Lobacki, focuses on transforming autoimmune disease treatment through immunomodulation science. The company is developing AX-158, a first-in-class oral small-molecule immunomodulating agent that selectively modulates T cell responses. AX-158 is being pursued as a new way to treat multiple autoimmune diseases without causing the immune suppression commonly associated with current therapies. Proceeds from the recent financing extension will support activities for a planned Q4 2020 Clinical Trial Application (CTA) filing with the UK Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) for AX-158. The article does not disclose operating metrics such as revenue or user numbers. Artax Biopharma’s lead program is AX-024, an orally dosed, highly selective immunomodulator that inhibits Nck-mediated T-cell receptor signaling. The company has validated the target and mechanism, demonstrated preclinical proof-of-concept across multiple autoimmune and GVHD models, and reported favorable Phase I safety and PK/PD with dose-dependent immunomodulatory effects ex vivo. Artax is developing additional selective Nck inhibitors in partnership with Dr. Balbino Alarcon, whose lab discovered Nck’s role in T-cell activation. The new financing will be used to advance AX-024 through Phase Ib and IIa clinical trials and to further develop the Nck-specific compound portfolio. Artax is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and is led by founder and CEO Damia Tormo.

Total raised

$44M

Funding rounds

4

Latest round

Convertible Note

Latest activity

Aug 2024