Simnova Bio Raises ¥400M Series B for CAR-NK and In Vivo CAR-T Therapies

Simnova Bio (先博生物), a Shanghai-based clinical-stage cell therapy company, has raised ¥400 million (approximately $56 million USD) in a Series B funding round. The round was led by Pudong Chuangtou, with participation from Oriza Holdings, Futeng Capital, Cenova Capital, Zhangke Herun Fund, and Youshan Capital.

About Simnova Bio

Simnova Bio, also known as Xianbo Bio, is a clinical-stage company incubated by Simcere (先声药业) and operating independently since 2021. The company focuses on developing off-the-shelf (universal) CAR-NK therapies, in vivo CAR-T, and multi-target solid-tumor CAR-T platforms.

Lead Candidate and Clinical Progress

Simnova's lead candidate, SNC103, is an anti-CD19 universal CAR-NK therapy. In a Phase 1 trial for moderate-to-severe systemic lupus erythematosus, SNC103 demonstrated a 100% SRI-4 response rate. Additionally, the company's in vivo CAR-T candidate, SNC116, has entered clinical studies at the Cancer Hospital of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences.

Partnerships and Technology

Simnova has partnered with ORNA Therapeutics (later acquired by Eli Lilly) to advance LNP delivery and circular RNA technology. This collaboration underscores the company's commitment to innovative approaches in cell therapy.

Funding Purpose

The Series B funds will be used to advance Simnova's pipeline, including ongoing clinical trials and development of its universal CAR-NK and in vivo CAR-T platforms. The investment from a strong syndicate of investors reflects confidence in the company's potential to transform cancer and autoimmune disease treatment.