Be Biopharma Secures $92 Million Series C Funding to Advance Engineered B Cell Therapies
Be Biopharma, a Cambridge, Massachusetts-based biotechnology company pioneering engineered B Cell Medicines (BCMs), has raised $92 million in a Series C funding round. This latest investment will support the advancement of Be Biopharma’s innovative therapies targeting genetic diseases, positioning the company for significant growth in the cell therapy landscape.
The funding round was led by Nextech, with participation from existing investors including ARCH Venture Partners, Atlas Venture, RA Capital Management, Alta Partners, Longwood Fund, Bristol Myers Squibb, and Takeda Ventures. The strong support from both new and existing investors reflects the industry’s confidence in Be Biopharma’s unique approach to developing cell-based therapies.
Be Biopharma is focused on leveraging B cells, a type of white blood cell, to create durable and redosable medicines for a range of diseases. Its proprietary BCM platform allows for precise engineering of B cells to produce therapeutic proteins within the body, offering an alternative to traditional gene and cell therapies.
The company’s lead program, BE-101, is designed to treat hemophilia B and is currently in Phase 1/2 clinical trials. BE-101 aims to provide continuous expression of clotting factor IX, potentially reducing or eliminating the need for frequent infusions in patients with this bleeding disorder. Be Biopharma’s second program, BE-102, targets hypophosphatasia, a rare genetic bone disease, and is expected to enter clinical trials in the coming year.
With the newly secured funding, Be Biopharma plans to expand its clinical programs, enhance its BCM platform, and accelerate the development of additional pipeline candidates. The company also intends to invest in its manufacturing capabilities to support the growing demand for its engineered B cell therapies.
Melissa McCracken, Ph.D., from Nextech, will join Be Biopharma’s Board of Directors, bringing valuable expertise in life sciences investment and strategic growth. Her addition to the board is expected to strengthen the company’s leadership as it navigates clinical development and regulatory milestones.
Be Biopharma is poised to transform the treatment of genetic diseases with its innovative B cell-based therapies, offering patients new hope for long-lasting and potentially curative treatments. The Series C funding marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey, underscoring its potential to lead the next generation of cell and gene therapies.
