Creathor Ventures, alongside other investors, has invested nearly EUR 10 million in a Series B funding round for Acousia Therapeutics, a company developing innovative therapies for hearing loss.

Target Information

Acousia Therapeutics GmbH, based in Tübingen, Germany, is a pioneering biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing innovative therapies for inner ear-related diseases. Acousia specializes in creating drug candidates designed to protect, repair, and restore the functionality of sensory hair cells in patients experiencing hearing loss. This loss can be attributed to various factors including ototoxic medications, the natural aging process, exposure to loud noises, and conditions such as sudden deafness.

The issue of hearing impairment is prevalent in developed countries, affecting an estimated 10-15% of the population. The most common cause of this condition is the irreversible loss of sensory hair cells located in the cochlea of the inner ear, which can occur due to age, noise trauma, infections, or pharmacological treatments involving ototoxic agents. Acousia's lead drug candidate, ACOU085, is particularly noteworthy as it targets cisplatin-induced hearing loss, seeking to improve the functionality of hair cells.

Industry Overview in Germany

Germany boasts a robust biotechnology sector, known for its strong emphasis on research and development. The country is home to numerous biotech firms specializing in various medical fields, including hear