Basel, Switzerland – Noema Pharma, a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing therapies for central nervous system (CNS) disorders, has announced the successful completion of a Series B extension financing round, bringing the total capital raised to CHF 130 million (approximately $147 million USD). EQT Life Sciences led the extension, joining existing investors including Forbion, Jeito Capital, Sofinnova Partners, Gilde Healthcare, Polaris Partners, Invus, and UPMC Enterprises.
The funding will primarily support the advancement of Noema Pharma's four ongoing Phase 2 clinical trials, with key data readouts anticipated in 2025. These trials are investigating potential treatments for a range of neurological conditions with significant unmet medical needs.
Advancing Clinical Programs
The proceeds from the financing will be used to further develop Noema Pharma's pipeline, including:
- Basimglurant (NOE-101): A metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) negative allosteric modulator currently in Phase 2 trials for severe pain associated with trigeminal neuralgia (TN) and seizures related to tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC).
- Gemlapodect (NOE-105): A phosphodiesterase 10A (PDE10a) inhibitor in a Phase 2b trial for Tourette syndrome and also under development for childhood-onset fluency disorder (COFD), commonly known as stuttering.
- NOE-115: A broad-spectrum monoamine modulator currently in a Phase 2 trial for vasomotor symptoms and other symptoms associated with menopause.
Addressing Unmet Needs in CNS Disorders
CNS disorders represent a substantial global health challenge, affecting hundreds of millions of individuals worldwide. Many of these conditions are characterized by limited treatment options, inadequate efficacy, and significant side effects. Noema Pharma aims to address these unmet needs by developing first-in-disease therapeutics that target the underlying mechanisms of these complex disorders.
"This latest financing underscores the strong support and confidence from investors in Noema’s vision to treat neuroscience-based conditions," said Ilise Lombardo, MD, CEO of Noema Pharma. "We are thrilled to welcome EQT Life Sciences into this strong syndicate of investors. EQT’s support and expertise alongside our syndicate of investors will be invaluable as we progress our clinical programs and strive to make a meaningful impact on patients' lives."
Felice Verduyn-van Weegen, Partner at EQT and member of the Board at Noema, commented: "Noema Pharma's innovative approach to CNS disorders aligns very well with our investment strategy and we are excited to support their late-stage clinical pipeline and transformative therapies. Having worked with Ilise Lombardo on a previous successful investment, her exceptional leadership as a repeat entrepreneur reinforces our confidence in Noema's potential to deliver meaningful impact to patients in need."
