V-Bio Ventures has led a €38 million Series C financing round for Step Pharma to advance its innovative CTPS1 inhibitor, dencatistat, through critical clinical trials targeting various cancers.

Target Information

Step Pharma is a pioneering biotechnology company focused on developing targeted therapies for cancer treatment through the inhibition of CTPS1. The company aims to revolutionize cancer therapy by creating highly selective treatments that target cancer cells while sparing healthy cells. Founded in 2014, Step Pharma is recognized as a world leader in CTPS1 inhibition, harnessing innovative scientific discoveries to advance its proprietary drug, dencatistat.

Currently, Step Pharma is advancing dencatistat, a first-in-class, orally bioavailable CTPS1 inhibitor, through several clinical trials. The company is engaged in multiple phase 1 and 2 studies, notably focusing on cancers such as T and B cell lymphomas and solid tumors. Its recent developments mark a significant milestone, as dencatistat has gained orphan drug designation for treating T cell lymphoma and has entered a third clinical program for essential thrombocythaemia, a rare blood disorder.

Industry Overview

The biotechnology industry in Belgium has witnessed robust growth, supported by a favorable investment climate and strong research institutions. The country's strategic position within Europe, coupled with its strong emphasis on life sciences, has made