Gate2Brain, a spin-off developed by IRB Barcelona, the University of Barcelona (UB) and the Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu (SJD), has patented technology based on peptides (small proteins) that efficiently cross biological barriers, such as the blood-brain barrier that protects the brain. As if they were molecular shuttles, these peptides can carry drugs that without help cannot reach the brain to cure it. The first indication that they will benefit from the technology is in the field of pediatric brain tumors.
As explained by Dr. Meritxell Teixidó, CEO of Gate2Brain, the 2.5 million euros received through the EIC Accelerator program will contribute to advancing preclinical studies of regulation of its drug G2B-00. This development is being carried out in collaboration with SJD Barcelona Children's Hospital and is aimed at brain tumours with intact barriers. In two or three years, these results will open the door to a clinical trial.
EIC Accelerator is a programme of the European Innovation Council (EIC) that supports small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in particular start-ups and spin-offs, to develop and scale up revolutionary innovations.
" Man has been dreaming of travelling to the brain for decades and, in fact, science fiction has dedicated books and films such as Isaac Asimov's The Fantastic Journey. Gate2Brain's dream is to improve the health and quality of life of people suffering from central nervous system diseases by improving drug delivery to the brain and treating it," explains Dr. Teixidó. He also adds that "today, just before Christmas, this dream is one step closer thanks to funding from the EIC Accelerator . "
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