A new biotechnology company, SpringWorks Therapeutics, has emerged from Pfizer with $103 million in Series A funding to advance four promising drug candidates targeting rare and serious diseases. The company launches with backing from an impressive consortium of investors, including Pfizer, LifeArc, Bain Capital Life Sciences, Bain Capital Double Impact, and OrbiMed.
The venture, spearheaded by former Pfizer R&D strategy executive Lara Sullivan, represents an innovative approach to drug development, focusing on advancing promising compounds that were previously deprioritized within Pfizer's extensive pipeline.
"SpringWorks Therapeutics started as an idea about a new way to get things done with and for patients," said Freda Lewis-Hall, executive vice president and chief medical officer at Pfizer. "We hope that our investment will, over time, enable us to realize even more value for patients and society."
Pipeline Assets and Development Plans
The company's lead programs include two candidates poised for phase 3 clinical trials:
- Nirogacestat (PF-03084014) for desmoid tumors, rare non-metastatic tumors of connective tissue that can cause severe morbidity and functional impairment
- A MEK 1/2 inhibitor (PD-0325901) for neurofibromatosis, developed in collaboration with the Children's Tumor Foundation
Additionally, SpringWorks will advance two other compounds:
- Senicapoc (PF-05416266) for hereditary xerocytosis, a rare genetic disorder affecting red blood cell hydration
- PF-044578, a FAAH inhibitor, being developed for post-traumatic stress disorder in partnership with Cohen Veterans Biosciences
Strategic Leadership and Business Model
SpringWorks has assembled an experienced leadership team, including executive chairman Daniel Lynch, who brings over 25 years of industry experience, and Mary Smith as vice president of clinical R&D, known for her successful development of United Therapeutics' neuroblastoma drug Unituxin.
The company's business model extends beyond developing Pfizer's assets. SpringWorks plans to expand its pipeline through strategic partnerships with other companies and academic institutions, creating a network of collaborations with scientists, biotechs, patient groups, funders, and philanthropists.
Innovative Development Approach
This spin-off represents a departure from traditional big pharma development strategies. Under the agreement, Pfizer has granted licenses that include milestone payments and royalties for the experimental therapies. While two of the candidates have demonstrated promise in mid-stage trials, the remaining two have established safety profiles and will be evaluated for new therapeutic applications.
The creation of SpringWorks reflects a broader industry trend toward finding innovative ways to develop overlooked or lower-priority molecules, potentially accelerating their path to patients who urgently need new treatment options.
