ILiAD Biotechnologies, Inc. (ILiAD), an advanced clinical stage biotech company focused on the prevention and treatment of disease caused by Bordetella pertussis, today announced the successful closing of an oversubscribed $115 million Series B financing. The financing was led by RA Capital Management with participation from new investors Janus Henderson Investors and BNP Paribas Asset Management Alts, as well as existing investors including a multi-national pharmaceutical company and AI Life Sciences. As part of the financing, Mario Barro, Ph.D., Head of Infectious Diseases at RA Capital Management has joined ILiAD’s Board of Directors.
Proceeds from the Series B financing will support the advancement of ILiAD’s next generation pertussis vaccine candidate, BPZE1. Inducing both systemic and mucosal immunity, BPZE1 is a live attenuated intranasal pertussis vaccine designed to provide durable and comprehensive immunity for the prevention of B. pertussis infection, disease (whooping cough), and transmission. The Company expects to begin a pivotal human challenge trial of BPZE1 in 2026, with initial data expected in 2027.
“BPZE1 represents a compelling opportunity to address the ongoing burden of pertussis,” said Mario Barro, Ph.D., of RA Capital Management. “Across six clinical studies, including a human challenge study published in The Lancet Microbe, BPZE1 has demonstrated the potential to meaningfully advance Bordetella pertussis prevention. Its needle-free administration facilitates broad access, and by inducing robust mucosal immunity, BPZE1 may provide a more natural and durable immune response capable of preventing both disease and transmission.”
Keith Rubin, MD, Founder and CEO of ILiAD commented, “Today’s financing reflects the urgent need for better pertussis vaccines, the scientific rigor and operational discipline of our team, and the extraordinary potential BPZE1 holds to improve global public health. We are grateful to RA Capital for their diligent efforts to lead the round, to Janus and BNPP AM Alts for their active partnership during the financing process, and to existing investors and all those who came before in support of our mission to eradicate pertussis disease once and for all.”
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