Breaching the Blood-Brain Barrier - CNS Therapeutic Development
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) presents a significant challenge in developing effective treatments for central nervous system disorders. Various approaches are being explored to overcome this pharmacological challenge, including shuttle technologies, viral vectors, non-viral delivery particles, intranasal distribution, and devices for direct delivery to the CNS.
Biopharma companies and investors have shown significant interest in BBB technologies, with 63 strategic transactions (licensing/acquisitions) over the past six years and USD2.5bn raised in total from venture financing between 2019 and 2023.
The DNB//Back Bay Partnership analyzed the clinical development landscape, recent transactions, and financing activity to better understand which technologies are advancing to the clinic and gaining traction.
The BBB serves as a crucial biological defense mechanism, shielding the CNS from potentially harmful substances and pathogens circulating in the bloodstream. However, this protective function presents a significant hurdle in the treatment of CNS disorders, as it also impedes the delivery of therapeutic agents to their intended targets.
Partner, Managing Director
BBLSA
Boston
Engagement Manager, Healthcare Strategic Advisory,
BBLSA
New York
Senior Equity Analyst, Healthcare
DNB Markets
Stockholm
About the DNB//Back Bay Partnership for Healthcare
From private and emerging public life science and healthcare companies seeking partnering, licensing, and M&A opportunities to listing and executing on US and Nordic exchanges to consolidators seeking and executing acquisitions and other growth strategies, DNB//Back Bay provides financial and strategic guidance on growth opportunities across sector and stage.
Our healthcare strategy and banking teams span the globe and have worked across every stage and sector of healthcare development.
Learn more about our partnership and read our disclosures.