A Huntsville-based biotech company, Serina Therapeutics, has secured $10 million in funding to advance clinical trials for a novel Parkinson’s treatment.
Based at the HudsonAlpha Institute of Biotechnology, the company announced plans to begin trials in the second half of this year. The funding comes from UK-based investor JuvVentures.
A new approach to Parkinson’s treatment
Serina Therapeutics is using its proprietary drug-delivery technology to enhance the effectiveness and usability of apomorphine, a common Parkinson’s medication. The approach combines Serina’s technology with a wearable device from Enable Injections, allowing for continuous, long-lasting drug administration.
By attaching apomorphine to substances that enable slow release, the treatment aims to maintain steady drug levels, addressing the issue of rapid medication wear-off. The wearable injector ensures extended delivery under the skin without causing irritation.
Advancing toward clinical trials
“This financing strengthens our cash position as we advance SER-252 into the clinic,” said CEO Steve Ledger. “With a differentiated approach to continuous dopaminergic stimulation and an innovative drug delivery system, we believe SER-252 has the potential to provide meaningful benefits for patients with advanced Parkinson’s disease.”
The company remains on track to launch its Phase 1 trial later this year.
Expanding drug delivery innovations
Serina’s drug-delivery technology has broader applications, and Pfizer has already licensed it for potential use in other medical treatments.
The company plans to further expand its POZ polymer platform through partnerships, co-development opportunities, and licensing agreements, including its non-exclusive deal with Pfizer for use in lipid nanoparticle (LNP) drug delivery formulations.
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