Marseille-based Massalia Therapeutics has emerged from stealth mode with seed financing to advance its novel therapeutic platform targeting the intersection of fibrosis, neoplasm, and neovascularization. The biotechnology company, a spin-off from the Cardiovascular and Nutrition Research Center (C2VN) at Aix-Marseille University, is developing a first-in-class approach centered on the SANF (Soluble Angiogenic Neoplastic and Fibrotic) factor.
While the exact funding amount remains undisclosed, industry estimates suggest the company has secured sufficient capital to cover regulatory submissions (approximately €0.5 million) and Phase I testing (between €1-5 million). The financing positions Massalia to initiate its first-in-human dose escalation trial within the next six months.
Novel Therapeutic Approach at Disease Intersection
Massalia's scientific foundation rests on two decades of research led by company co-founders Dr. Marcel Blot-Chabaud and Professor Nathalie Bardin at C2VN. Their work has identified and validated the SANF factor as a critical driver in pathological processes involving fibrosis, cancer, and abnormal blood vessel formation.
"The depth of biological and translational validation behind SANF is remarkable," said Zaki Sellam, Executive Chairman of Massalia and CEO of co-founding investor Landmark BioVentures. "Given its wide-ranging potential in oncology and fibrosis, we are confident that this therapeutic platform can redefine treatment paradigms in these challenging diseases."
The company's approach is particularly significant as it addresses disease mechanisms at the intersection of multiple pathological processes that have traditionally been difficult to target effectively with existing therapies.
Advanced Preclinical Development
According to company statements, Massalia's preclinical program is fully prepared for an Investigational New Drug (IND) application. All necessary preclinical tests have been completed to submit a comprehensive dossier and study plan to regulatory authorities.
The SANF factor has undergone extensive translational validation, confirming its pivotal role in driving pathological processes and therapeutic resistance in both cancer and fibrosis. This robust preclinical package positions the company to move rapidly into clinical development.
Françoise Dignat-George, Director at C2VN, emphasized the significance of this transition: "The launch of Massalia Therapeutics represents a significant milestone in the translation of academic innovation into clinical solutions. We are excited to support this talented team as they work to bring their sole-in-class platform, targeting the SANF factor, to market, supporting patients in need."
Strategic Partnerships and Location
Massalia benefits from a strong network of academic and strategic collaborators, including C2VN, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille University Hospitals, and SATT Sud-Est, a regional economic development agency. These partnerships have been instrumental in the discovery and validation of the SANF factor.
The company is strategically located at C2VN within the Faculty of Pharmacy of Aix-Marseille University, adjacent to La Timone University Hospital. This positioning provides Massalia with direct access to a renowned hub for biomedical innovation and research.
Development Timeline
Massalia is currently progressing toward clinical candidate nomination, with plans to enter IND-enabling studies within the next 6-12 months. The company expects to initiate its first-in-human dose escalation trial within six months, representing a rapid transition from preclinical to clinical development.
As the seventh company in Landmark BioVentures' portfolio, Massalia joins a growing nexus of innovative biotechnology ventures focused on addressing significant unmet medical needs. The company's unique focus on the interface between fibrosis, neoplasm, and neovascularization positions it to potentially develop transformative therapies for patients with complex, interconnected diseases that have historically been challenging to treat effectively.
