More than one million people globally experience spontaneous and frequent bleeding episodes caused by hereditary bleeding disorder. University of Bern spin-off BLEEDnFIRE Therapeutics is developing an RNA-based therapy for this condition. The awarded CHF 150,000 from Venture Kick will allow the company to advance the solution.
Hemophilia and Von Willebrand disease, inherited bleeding disorders affecting over 1.125 million people globally, cause spontaneous and frequent bleeding episodes. While the market for these conditions is valued at USD 14 billion and projected to reach USD 22 billion by 2030, current therapies have limitations, leaving a critical need for more effective and accessible solutions.
BLEEDnFIRE Therapeutics addresses this gap with BnF-001, an RNA-based therapy that targets abnormal clotting and inflammation, with the aim of improving care and quality of life for affected individuals. By inhibiting a specific protein that disrupts clotting, BnF-001 reduces bleeding risks effectively. This next-generation treatment is not only highly targeted and safe, but also more cost-effective and easier to produce than conventional therapies.
Patented in multiple countries, BnF-001 is advancing toward clinical trials with strategic partnerships and robust preclinical development. The CHF 150,000 funding from Venture Kick will support critical studies required for the Investigational New Drug (IND) application, a key milestone for initiating clinical trials.
BLEEDnFIRE is led by CEO and co-founder Dr. Raja Prince-Eladnani, co-founder Prof. Anne Angelillo-Scherrer, and expert scientist Dr. Rim Diab, who combine over 25 years of expertise in bleeding disorders. Their collaborations with the University of Bern and Inselspital facilities strengthen their progress toward clinical development.
“Venture Kick has been pivotal for BLEEDnFIRE Therapeutics, providing invaluable support, mentorship, and funding. Reaching the final stage and raising CHF 150,000 validated our vision and gave us the resources and confidence to push forward,” highlighted co-founder and CEO Raja Prince-Eladnani.
(Press release/RAN)
Image: CEO & co-founder Raja Prince-Eladnani, co-founder Anne Angelillo-Scherrer, and expert scientist Rim Diab
The new Swiss Venture Capital Report was published on 26 January. It analyses 304 financing rounds closed in 2020 and includes further article such as an interview with Michael Hengartner, President of the ETH Board, and a list of Swiss "soonicorns". 
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