Cilcare, a biotechnology company specializing in auditory sciences, has announced a €40 million Series A funding round to advance its lead candidate, CIL001, into Phase 2a clinical trials. The trials, planned for 2025, will investigate CIL001's efficacy in treating cochlear synaptopathy, a condition often referred to as "hidden hearing loss." This funding round included new investments from SHIONOGI & CO., LTD., and Sprim Global Investments Pte. Ltd, alongside existing investors.
Addressing Cochlear Synaptopathy
Cochlear synaptopathy affects 10-15% of adults and is often undetectable by standard audiograms. This condition is associated with difficulties understanding speech in noisy environments, tinnitus, and hyperacusis, and can progress to deafness if left untreated. Cilcare reports that over one billion young people are threatened by this underdiagnosed condition.
Clinical Trial Design
The first Phase 2a trial will enroll approximately 100 patients with Type 2 diabetes, a population with a high prevalence (nearly 40%) of cochlear synaptopathy, particularly among those with elevated glycated hemoglobin levels and over two years of diabetes. The second trial will target patients with neurodegenerative disorders. Both trials will use a similar treatment protocol involving a single local administration of CIL001, with auditory function monitored over several months.
AI-Driven Innovation
Cilcare is currently the only company focusing on therapies for this early-stage auditory pathology, utilizing AI-driven detection methods. According to Célia Belline, CEO of Cilcare, this funding and strategic agreements, including an exclusive license option with Shionogi Ltd., mark a decisive milestone for the company. Cilcare has conducted extensive research to identify auditory biomarkers, enabling better patient selection and therapy evaluation. By integrating advanced auditory data analysis technologies, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, Cilcare aims to optimize the characterization of auditory function in both preclinical and clinical settings.
Future Directions
These advances are expected to significantly increase the success probability of treatments like CIL001 by targeting high-risk subpopulations for synaptopathy. Cilcare also continues to support international pharmaceutical companies and researchers in accelerating the development of drugs, gene and cell therapies, and medical devices.
Belline emphasizes the company's commitment to transforming auditory healthcare through scientific advancements and developing therapeutic solutions for millions affected by auditory disorders worldwide.
