Leiden's BIMINI Biotech Secures €3 Million for Innovative Cancer Treatments
Leiden, Tuesday, 14 January 2025.
BIMINI Biotech, a health tech startup in Leiden, received €3 million in seed funding to advance preclinical development of WASp modulator-based cancer treatments for leukemia and lymphoma.
Investment Details and Company Background
The seed funding round, closed on January 12, 2025, was led by Torrey Pines Investment (TPI), with participation from InnovationQuarter Capital (IQC), Libertatis Ergo Holding (LEH), and a business angel [1]. BIMINI Biotech, founded in 2019 and based in Leiden, has established itself as a specialist in developing small molecule therapeutics that target Wiskott Aldrich Syndrome Protein (WASp) to inhibit cancer cell growth [1].
Scientific Innovation and Potential Impact
The company’s approach has shown promising results, demonstrating significant anti-cancer effects in both laboratory conditions (in vitro) and living organisms (in vivo) for various lymphoma and leukemia models [1]. Dr. Maurits van den Nieuwboer, BIMINI’s COO, emphasizes the critical nature of their work, noting that for aggressive forms of leukemia and lymphoma, patient relapse is inevitable under current treatments [1]. The development leverages advanced computer-aided drug design and artificial intelligence through their AI-based drug discovery platform [1].
Development Strategy and Future Plans
The €3 million investment will primarily accelerate the preclinical development phase and validate both the safety and efficacy of their WASp modulators [1][2]. This funding represents a significant step forward in addressing the urgent need for novel therapeutic strategies in oncology, particularly for hematological cancers [1]. The company’s focus on first-in-class therapeutics for haematological cancers, specifically lymphomas and leukemia, positions them at the forefront of innovative cancer treatment development [1][3].
Industry Recognition and Support
BIMINI’s potential has been recognized by key industry players, as evidenced by their recent success in the Venture Challenge Winter teams 2024-2025 [7]. Investment Manager at IQC, Linn Bäckegren-van Ingen, expressed confidence in the team, stating their impression with BIMINI’s dedication and expertise [1]. This support from established investors and industry recognition underscores the potential impact of BIMINI’s innovative approach to cancer treatment.