AltruBio is a technology company.
AltruBio is focused on developing safer, more durable treatments for immunological diseases, aiming to improve the lives of patients.
AltruBio has raised $293.0M across 2 funding rounds.
AltruBio has raised $293.0M in total across 2 funding rounds.
AltruBio has raised $293.0M in total across 2 funding rounds.
AltruBio's investors include RA Capital, Third Rock Ventures, Alice Zhang, Evan Cheng, aMoon Fund.
AltruBio is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel PSGL-1 agonist antibodies as immune checkpoint enhancers to treat autoimmune and inflammatory diseases like ulcerative colitis, psoriatic arthritis, psoriasis, and graft-versus-host disease (GVHD).[1][2][5] Headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area (with offices listed in Redwood City and San Francisco), it serves patients with high unmet needs in immunology by targeting chronically activated T-cells to restore immune homeostasis without broad suppression.[1][3][6] The company has raised nearly $300 million total, including a $225 million Series B in 2024 led by BVF Partners, RA Capital, and Cormorant, fueling advancement of lead candidate ALTB-268 into Phase 2a trials for ulcerative colitis, with Phase 1 completion in healthy volunteers.[4][6]
AltruBio originated as AbGenomics Holdings, a startup initially focused on oncology drugs, but pivoted in 2020 to immunology amid strategic challenges including near-bankruptcy discussions.[4][6] This shift involved new leadership under CEO Dr. Judy Chou, who brought proven biotech experience, and a rebranding to AltruBio, founded formally in 2020.[1][4] The idea stemmed from unique insights into PSGL-1 (CD162) as a regulator of T-cell homeostasis, leading to in-house discovery of first-in-class antibodies like ALTB-168, which showed early proof-of-mechanism in Phase 1/2 trials across multiple indications.[1][2][5] Early traction included a $63 million Series A in Q2 2021 and clinical validation in diseases like steroid-refractory acute GVHD, setting the stage for next-generation ALTB-268.[1][4]
AltruBio rides the wave of surging investment in immunology and inflammation therapeutics, fueled by demand for targeted immune modulators beyond broad immunosuppressants amid rising autoimmune disease prevalence.[4][7] Timing is ideal post-2020 pivot, aligning with industry enthusiasm for T-cell regulators—distinct from oncology checkpoint inhibitors—as evidenced by its $225 million Series B amid a tough funding environment, reflecting validator data from ALTB-168.[4] Market forces like high unmet needs in ulcerative colitis (Phase 2a data expected H1 2025) and GVHD (89% Phase 1-to-2 success benchmark) favor its platform, influencing the ecosystem by validating PSGL-1 as a novel checkpoint for broader T-cell mediated disorders like multiple sclerosis.[3][5][6]
AltruBio's near-term catalysts include Phase 2a ulcerative colitis readout in H1 2025 for ALTB-268, potential Phase 2b start in 2025-2026, and expansion into psoriatic arthritis plus GVHD trials.[4][6] Trends like precision immunology and biologics durability will shape its path, with preclinical data at FOCIS 2025 bolstering multi-indication potential.[6] Its influence may grow via partnerships or further funding if data succeeds, evolving from pivot survivor to immunology leader—transforming "Cinderella story" origins into durable patient impact.[4][6]
AltruBio has raised $293.0M across 2 funding rounds. Most recently, it raised $230.0M Series B in May 2024.
| Date | Round | Lead Investors | Other Investors |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 1, 2024 | $230.0M Series B | RA Capital, Third Rock Ventures, Alice Zhang, Evan Cheng | |
| Apr 1, 2021 | $63.0M Series A | aMoon Fund |