International law firm Bird & Bird advised Bpifrance, on its participation in ARTHEx Biotech’s $87 million expended Series B investment, a spin-off biotech company from the University of Valencia (Spain) focused on developing targeted RNA medicines for rare genetic neuromuscular disorders.
The series B extension financing was led by Bpifrance, as part of Large Venture and InnoBio investment strategies, and joined by existing shareholders, including AdBio Partners, CDTI Innovación, Columbus Venture Partners, European Innovation Council (EIC), Hadean Ventures, Invivo Partners and Sound Bioventures.
Proceeds from the financing will be used to further advance the global clinical development of ARTHEx’s lead program, ATX-01 for Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1 (DM1), including the ongoing interventional Phase I/IIa ArthemiRTM study and the preparation for an open-label extension to support a registrational study. This funding also aims to develop a broader range of targeted RNA-based medicines in areas of significant need, such as muscular, central nervous system and cardiac disorders.
The company has received Orphan Drug Designation for ATX-01 in DM1 from both US and European regulatory authorities, recognising the significant unmet medical need and the potential therapeutic benefit of this novel approach. Early patient data from clinical trials are expected in 2026.
Bird & Bird advised Bpifrance on the investment in ARTHEx Biotech with a cross-border team comprising partner Carole Bodin and associate Jasmine Javault from Paris office and partner Lourdes Ayala, counsel Antonio Ballesteros and associate Adrian Bert for Madrid office.
