Axonis Therapeutics Secures $115 Million to Boost Neuro Drug Advancements

Axonis Therapeutics, a biotechnology company focused on neuro-focused medicines, has successfully raised $115 million in an oversubscribed Series A financing round. The company plans to use the proceeds to advance its lead development candidate, AXN-027, through clinical proof-of-concept in patients. AXN-027 is an innovative oral small molecule aimed at enhancing the function of KCC2, a CNS chloride transporter crucial for inhibitory neurotransmission, used in managing epilepsy and pain. The funding will also facilitate the creation of next-generation compounds targeting KCC2 for various indications, including psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders. Axonis, headquartered in Boston, leverages a proprietary KCC2 discovery engine developed from years of research spun out from prestigious institutions like Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard, and Université Laval. The company has received support from multiple grants and institutions, positioning itself as a leader in this potential blockbuster drug domain. Goodwin's Life Sciences team, led by Joe Flynn, Dan Hughes, and Kingsley Taft with others, advised on the financing deal.