Qlaris Bio is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focusing on developing innovative therapies for debilitating ophthalmic diseases, particularly targeting intraocular pressure (IOP) management in glaucoma patients. Founded in August 2019, Qlaris Bio is based in Dedham, Massachusetts, and its key investors include Canaan Partners and New Leaf Venture Partners. The company's flagship therapy, QLS-111, targets episcleral venous pressure (EVP) and is currently undergoing clinical trials.
April 2024: Qlaris Bio announced the closing of a $24 million Series B financing round, led by Canaan and New Leaf Venture Partners, with additional funds from abrdn Inc., Correlation Ventures, and Mayo Clinic Ventures. The funds will further the clinical development of QLS-111, a first-in-class therapeutic aimed at lowering IOP by targeting EVP in patients with glaucoma, including those with Normal Tension Glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
April 2024: The company initiated Phase II clinical trials for QLS-111 in patients with open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. These trials aim to evaluate optimal dosing, safety, tolerability, and efficacy of the therapeutic.
April 2024: QLS-111 was highlighted for its novel approach focusing on EVP, potentially making it the first-ever treatment option for certain glaucoma types within the U.S. and Asian demographics where NTG is prevalent.
May 2022: Previous Phase 2 trial results reported a favorable safety and tolerability profile for QLS-101 (a related investigational therapy), supporting continued development as a potential complementary glaucoma treatment.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | August 2019 |
| Headquarters | Dedham, Massachusetts, USA |
| Founders | Thurein Htoo, MS, MBA |
| Revenue | Not publicly disclosed |
| Profits | Not publicly disclosed |
| Key Investors | Canaan Partners, New Leaf Venture Partners |
| Industry | Biotechnology |
| Number of Employees | Approximately 9 |
Qlaris Bio was founded in August 2019 with the mission to address serious and debilitating ophthalmic conditions through innovative therapies. The company emerged from Qrativ, a biotechnology incubator partnership between Mayo Clinic and nference. Professor Michael Fautsch's research at Mayo Clinic was instrumental in shaping Qlaris Bio's approach, focusing on the previously deemed immutable component of IOP, the episcleral venous pressure (EVP). From its inception, the company has emphasized a comprehensive approach that combines scientific, medical, business, and strategic considerations to develop first-in-class therapies.
Qlaris Bio's business model centers around the development of therapies that offer novel mechanisms of action for IOP reduction by specifically targeting EVP, distinguishing themselves from existing glaucoma treatments which generally focus on different aspects of IOP regulation.
The company's innovative approach to glaucoma treatment, particularly the development of QLS-101 and QLS-111, is grounded in leveraging new scientific insights into EVP as a pivotal element in glaucoma pathophysiology. This approach promises improved therapeutic outcomes for patients who have limited options with current treatments.
Qlaris Bio continues to focus on the clinical progression of QLS-111, having recently advanced to Phase II clinical trials. The company positions itself uniquely in the competitive ophthalmology market by honing in on EVP as a key therapeutic target.
With ongoing support from its investors, Qlaris aims to become a leader in ophthalmic biotechnologies, providing new solutions for patients with high unmet needs, such as those suffering from Normal Tension Glaucoma and other challenging forms of the disease. Its collaborations with leading institutions like Mayo Clinic and a strong advisory team help reinforce its competitive advantage in a field dominated by traditional treatments.
Qlaris Bio, within a relatively short period, has established itself as a significant player in the ophthalmic disease therapeutics market by pursuing innovative treatment approaches grounded in robust scientific discovery. With its distinctive focus on EVP, the company's therapies have the potential to revolutionize the management of glaucoma and related conditions, offering significant therapeutic advancements where existing treatments fall short. As Qlaris advances its clinical trials and new products, it will likely continue to attract interest and investment, setting the stage for possible market expansion and breakthroughs in the near future.