All in the Delivery
Many neurological diseases lack effective treatments because delivering therapies to the brain is challenging due to the blood-brain barrier. Vancouver’s CereCura is tackling this issue by developing innovative therapies that circumvent this barrier and directly target brain conditions. The biotech startup’s solution focuses on creating new treatments for neurological diseases with few available options. Their platform technology delivers therapeutic proteins to the brain, addressing the critical challenge of crossing the blood-brain barrier.
CeraCura’s key products are lipid nanoparticle-based messenger RNA (LNP-mRNA) therapies, designed to treat a range of brain diseases. These include rare lysosomal storage diseases, brain cancers, chronic conditions like Alzheimer’s and ALS, and acute conditions such as stroke and brain injury. Their advanced delivery system ensures that these mRNA therapies reach the brain effectively, enabling the brain’s own cells to produce the necessary therapeutic proteins.
From Proof to Prominence
CereCura has achieved significant milestones, both technically and financially. On the technical front, they’ve validated their platform with key data points, including demonstrating broad distribution of their LNP-mRNA products within the brain, achieving high levels of protein expression in cerebrospinal fluid, and maintaining long-term expression of their lead therapeutic protein. Financially, they’ve raised over $2.7 million, including an $800,000 pre-seed round and $1.9 million in non-dilutive grants. The team recently graduated from the Creative Destruction Labs Advanced Therapies Global cohort and won the Impact Award at the Effervescence Montreal Pitch Competition.
The Vancouver startup is entering the 2024 New Ventures BC Competition to enhance their visibility and leverage opportunities within Vancouver’s vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. By participating, they aim to connect with potential advisors and investors, and refine their value proposition. The competition offers more than just financial benefits; it’s a chance to build their reputation and engage with experienced mentors. For CereCura, joining the fray is a crucial step in their growth and development as a serious startup in BC.
A Clear Roadmap
Looking ahead, CereCura is focused on three main priorities. First, to continue generating high-quality data to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of their therapeutic products in animal models. Second, to expand the team with key scientific hires, advisors, independent board members, and consultants. And lastly, they’re seeking strategic partnerships and venture investment within the next 12 months to advance their lead program to IND. CeraCura’s leadership team emphasizes running lean and prioritizing strategic funding over valuation — adhering to the advice that running out of money, not dilution, is what can hinder a company’s progress.
About the Founders
Louis-Philippe Bernier, Ph.D., Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer
Fun Fact: Despite being a Vancouverite for a long time and sometimes jumping on the Canucks bandwagon, Louis-Philippe is still a diehard Canadiens fan.
Nicholas Weilinger, Ph.D., Co-Founder and Chief Scientific Officer
Fun Fact: Nicholas’ favourite way to stay ‘grounded’ is gardening.
Richard Howlett, Ph.D., Chief Business Officer
Fun Fact: Richard is obsessed with coffee, despite not drinking it regularly until he turned 40 years old.
Company Cheatsheet:
City: Vancouver
Founded: June 2022
Sector: Therapeutics
