Galway-based startup LIfT BioSciences, which develops next-generation neutrophil-based immunotherapies to treat solid tumors, has secured €12 million from Ireland’s Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund (DTIF).
- Founded in 2016, LIfT BioSciences is pioneering a first-in-class alpha neutrophil cell therapy designed to tackle solid tumors by both directly destroying cancer cells and activating the broader immune system.
- Their Immuno-Modulatory Alpha Neutrophils (IMANs) reprogram the tumor microenvironment, recruiting other immune cells to mount a durable and lasting anti-tumor response.
- Using a patented N-LIfT platform, which combines exceptional stem cells with proprietary enhancement media and genetic engineering techniques like CAR technology, LIfT produces CAR-IMAN cells that significantly amplify the natural cancer-killing abilities of neutrophils.
- The company aims to develop a portfolio of these therapies, in partnership with pharmaceutical collaborators, to achieve complete remission across solid tumors within the next decade.
Details of the deal
- LIfT BioSciences received a €12 million grant from Ireland’s Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund (DTIF). This fund, valued at €500 million, was created as part of Project Ireland 2040 and is one of four funds established under the National Development Plan (NDP) 2018-2027.
“We're very excited to be able to employ our Mera body on a plate platform to support the development of LIfT's immuno-oncology therapeutic. This project highlights the strength of the Irish clinical research eco system and the power of collaboration," explains Mark Lyons, Ph.D., CEO at Hooke Bio.
- The firm plans to use the new funding to support the manufacturing process (CMC) and to conduct a first-in-human clinical trial testing the safety and feasibility of their IMAN therapy in patients with metastatic cervical and head and neck cancers.
“The grant awarded from DTIF is a significant milestone for LIfT as we expand our presence in Ireland and advance toward closing the second round of our Series A financing," Chief Executive Officer of LIfT Biosciences, Alex Blyth, commented.
