Bitterroot Bio is developing anti-CD47 immunotherapies to target the inflammatory processes underlying atherosclerosis, a major contributor to cardiovascular disease. By enhancing macrophage activity to reduce plaque formation, the company aims to decrease the incidence of heart attacks and strokes.
Funding
$145M raised to dateRaised to date based on public sources. This may differ from the amount the company actually raised and is based only on what is publicly available on the internet.
DFounders
Product
Problem
Atherosclerosis, characterized by plaque buildup in arteries, is driven by inflammatory processes that can lead to heart attacks and strokes. Current treatments primarily address symptoms rather than targeting the underlying immune mechanisms that perpetuate plaque formation.
Solution
Bitterroot Bio is developing anti-CD47 immunotherapies designed to modulate the inflammatory response within atherosclerotic plaques. By blocking the CD47 "don't eat me" signal on cells within the plaque, the therapy enhances macrophage activity, promoting the clearance of plaque-forming debris. This approach aims to stabilize or reduce plaque buildup, preventing arterial narrowing and decreasing the risk of cardiovascular events. The company's lead molecule, BRB-002, is currently in Phase 1 clinical trials.
Target Audience
The primary target audience includes patients at risk of or suffering from atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease, as well as cardiologists and medical researchers focused on cardio-immunology.
Features
- Targets CD47, a key immunoregulatory protein, to modulate macrophage activity within atherosclerotic plaques.
- Designed to enhance the removal of dead cells and debris contributing to plaque formation.
- Aims to address the underlying inflammatory drivers of atherosclerosis, rather than just treating symptoms.
- BRB-002, a novel anti-CD47 molecule, is being evaluated in clinical trials.