A fresh breeze is blowing through the world of dermatology with the launch of Alys Pharma, a biotech company backed by a solid $100 million in seed financing. Headquartered in both Boston and Geneva, Alys Pharma is a brainchild of Medicxi, the renowned European healthcare investment fund, along with six university scientists who hold a significant stake in the company.
Immunology is taking center stage in revolutionizing dermatology, once considered a low-margin domain in the pharmaceutical world. Francesco De Rubertis, executive chair of Alys, envisions the company as a frontrunner in immuno-dermatology, boasting a robust pipeline of 14 active R&D programs.
Operating through six subsidiaries across the US and the UK, Alys is tackling various skin diseases and treatment mechanisms. From psoriasis to atopic dermatitis (eczema), pruritus (itching), and vitiligo (loss of skin color), they’re diving deep into therapeutic innovation.
Psoriasis paved the way for dermatology’s transformation into a lucrative market, with blockbuster drugs like Stelara by Johnson & Johnson raking in over $10 billion annually. A similar success story unfolded with atopic dermatitis, led by Dupixent, developed by Regeneron and Sanofi.
According to Christopher Griffiths, director of the Manchester Centre for Dermatology Research, Alys is strategically positioned to capitalize on the burgeoning market for biological therapies targeting the immune system. With innovative technologies like siRNA and a diverse range of approaches involving antibodies, peptides, and small molecules, Alys is leaving no stone unturned.
A key focus for Alys is tackling itch, a bothersome yet often overlooked symptom of skin disorders. By delving into the biology of itch and developing strategies to combat it, they’re addressing a critical unmet need in dermatology.
With plans to unveil early clinical trial results for seven to ten skin treatments within the next three years, Alys is gearing up for substantial growth. Their ambitious business plan includes raising around $200 million in a series A round later this year, fueled by the growing interest from external parties eager to be part of the immuno-dermatology revolution.