EpilepsyGTx has secured $33 million in Series A funding to accelerate its lead gene therapy programme, EPY201, into early clinical trials. The London based biotechnology company focuses on developing single dose gene therapies for focal refractory epilepsy, a severe form of epilepsy that does not respond to standard medication. The new funding marks a significant milestone for the company as it prepares to begin its first Phase 1 and 2a human trials in the UK and Europe.
A Major Step Towards a New Treatment Option
EpilepsyGTx aims to address one of the biggest challenges in epilepsy treatment. Focal refractory epilepsy affects millions of people worldwide and can lead to unpredictable and life threatening seizures. Current treatment options often involve medications that do not fully control symptoms or invasive surgery that carries risks and lasting side effects.
EPY201 offers a different approach by calming seizure causing neurons with a single dose of gene therapy delivered locally to the seizure focus. The treatment is designed to reduce excessive brain activity without damaging surrounding tissue.
Why This Funding Matters
The latest Series A round will support:
- Progression of EPY201 through Phase 1 and 2a clinical trials.
- Safety and efficacy studies in humans.
- Expansion of the company’s research and clinical operations.
- Preparations for wider European regulatory and trial activity.
The investment was led by XGEN Venture, along with the British Business Bank and an international biopharmaceutical company. Their support reflects strong confidence in EpilepsyGTx’s potential to reshape how refractory epilepsy is treated.
What Makes EPY201 Different
EPY201 has been developed to target the specific brain region where seizures start. Once administered, the therapy aims to adjust neuronal activity and reduce seizure frequency. Early preclinical studies show promise, and the therapy could offer a long awaited alternative for people who do not respond to medication.
Key benefits of EPY201
- Delivered as a single dose
- Targets only the part of the brain causing seizures
- Intended to reduce or stop seizures
- Designed to preserve surrounding healthy brain tissue
If clinical trials confirm its safety and effectiveness, EPY201 could become one of the first gene therapies available for epilepsy.
Company Background and Previous Funding
EpilepsyGTx was founded as a spinout from University College London. The company builds on decades of world leading expertise in epilepsy and gene therapy research. Its founding scientists include professors from UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology and the Department of Neuroscience.
Before the recent Series A round, EpilepsyGTx received $10 million in seed funding from the UCL Technology Fund 2 in 2024. This early investment was crucial in supporting preclinical development and preparing the company for regulatory submissions.
Over the years, EpilepsyGTx has also received support from UCLB, which has worked alongside the founding team since the company’s inception in 2021.
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Leadership and Scientific Team
EpilepsyGTx is led by Chief Executive Officer Nicolas Koebel, who brings extensive experience in leading biotech ventures through early development stages.
The scientific team includes:
- Stephanie Schorge, Sophia Jex Blake Professor of Physiology at UCL
- Dimitri Kullmann, Professor at UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology
- Matthew Walker, Professor at UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology
- Gabriele Lignani, Professor at UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology
Their combined expertise in neurology, gene therapy and epilepsy research forms the core of EpilepsyGTx’s clinical and scientific strategy.
Looking Ahead
With the newly secured Series A funding, EpilepsyGTx is now focused on launching its first human trial for EPY201 by late 2026. If successful, the therapy could transform treatment for millions of people living with focal refractory epilepsy.
The company’s long term goal is to establish gene therapy as a viable, safe and effective option for neurological conditions where current treatments fall short.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is EpilepsyGTx?
EpilepsyGTx is a biotechnology company based in London that develops gene therapies for focal refractory epilepsy.
What is EPY201?
EPY201 is the company’s lead gene therapy programme designed to reduce or stop seizures by calming overactive neurons in the seizure focus.
How much funding has EpilepsyGTx raised?
The company has raised $33 million in Series A funding, following $10 million in seed funding in 2024.
When will clinical trials begin?
Phase 1 and 2a trials for EPY201 are expected to start in the UK and Europe by late 2026.
Who invested in the Series A round?
The latest funding was led by XGEN Venture with participation from the British Business Bank and an international biopharmaceutical company.
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