(Alliance News) - Syncona Ltd on Thursday reported its portfolio company Anaveon has dosed its first patient in a trial of a treatment aimed at enhancing patient immune systems.
Immuno-oncology firm Anaveon is currently studying ANV419, a type of protein which has the potential to therapeutically enhance a patient's immune system to better respond to tumours, with the possibility of future use as a treatment against certain cancers.
Life sciences investor Syncona first invested in Anaveon in early 2019, buying a 47% stake for CHF28 million, or GBP21.4 million. According to Syncona's website, it currently holds a 51% stake in Anaveon.
"We are encouraged by Anaveon's strong progress since our first investment in the company in 2019," said Syncona Chief Executive Martin Murphy.
"The first patient dosing comes off the back of pre-clinical data which has shown that ANV419 has the potential to be a best-in-class asset. Whilst not without risk, the clinical data generated by the company will be a critical driver of value and there is a fast timeline for the company to show differentiation against competing products."
Syncona shares were down 1.2% at 212.50 pence in London Thursday morning.
By Will Paige; willpaige@alliancenews.com
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