Story perspectives

Biotech Firms Secure Over $300 Million for Innovative Trials

1/9/2026

Summary

Story summary

Beacon Therapeutics raised over $75 million to advance its gene therapy candidate laru-zova for X-linked retinitis pigmentosa and support geographic atrophy preclinical programs.
Rakuten Medical secured $100 million for phase 3 trial of ASP-1929 with Merck's Keytruda for head and neck cancer.
Corsera Health raised $80 million to initiate phase 1 trial of COR-1004, a PCSK9-targeting siRNA.
Poplar Therapeutics obtained $50 million to develop anti-IgE therapies for food allergies.

History

Historical Context

The FDA's approval of Glybera in 2012 marked a significant milestone as the first gene therapy for a rare genetic disorder, following over $1 billion in investments by biotech firms. This breakthrough laid the groundwork for ongoing advancements in gene therapies, such as those targeting X-linked retinitis pigmentosa and food allergies, reflecting a commitment to revolutionizing treatments for previously untreatable conditions.

1 of 2

Story summary

Beacon Therapeutics raised over $75 million to advance its gene therapy candidate laru-zova for X-linked retinitis pigmentosa and support geographic atrophy preclinical programs.
Rakuten Medical secured $100 million for phase 3 trial of ASP-1929 with Merck's Keytruda for head and neck cancer.
Corsera Health raised $80 million to initiate phase 1 trial of COR-1004, a PCSK9-targeting siRNA.
Poplar Therapeutics obtained $50 million to develop anti-IgE therapies for food allergies.

1 / 2