Orbis Medicines Revolutionizing Oral Macrocycle Drug Discovery

March 1, 2024, 5:31 am
Orbis Medicines
Total raised: $28.09M
Orbis Medicines, a biotech company based in Copenhagen, Denmark, is making waves in the world of drug discovery with its innovative approach to developing oral macrocycle drugs. With a recent €26M seed financing round led by Novo Holdings and Forbion, Orbis is poised to transform the landscape of peptide-based therapies.

Peptides, chains of amino acids, have long been recognized for their potential in targeting challenging diseases. However, the traditional hurdle of poor oral bioavailability has limited their widespread use. Orbis's macrocycle technology platform is changing the game by designing peptides with enhanced properties for oral delivery and cellular permeability.

Led by scientific co-founders Christian Heinis and Sevan Habeshian, Orbis is at the forefront of developing macrocycles that are smaller, cell permeable, and scalable for mass production. This cutting-edge technology allows Orbis to generate thousands of compounds in a fraction of the time compared to conventional methods, paving the way for faster drug development and delivery.

By focusing on validated targets currently addressed by antibody drugs, Orbis aims to provide patients with a more convenient and effective alternative to traditional injection or infusion therapies. With the potential to convert antibody-based treatments into oral macrocycle formats, Orbis is opening up new possibilities for improved patient care and compliance.

The recent publication of Orbis's research in Nature Chemical Biology, showcasing the successful synthesis of cyclic peptides against a specific target, highlights the company's commitment to advancing the field of oral peptide drug research. With a strong emphasis on innovation and efficiency, Orbis is set to make a significant impact in the macrocycle drug discovery space.

As the macrocycle field continues to gain momentum, Orbis's nGen technology and pipeline of drug candidates, known as nCycles, position the company as a key player in the future of oral peptide therapies. With a focus on scalability, efficacy, and patient-centric solutions, Orbis Medicines is driving the next generation of peptide-based treatments towards a brighter and more accessible future for patients worldwide.