Centauri Therapeutics, a Cambridge-based biotech developing the Alphamer® platform, has raised $40.5M (£30M) in Series A funding. The platform deploys modular synthetic molecules that redirect patients' pre-existing polyclonal antibodies to pathogens or cancer cells using aptamer binding and sugar epitopes. The capital supports advancement of lead candidate ABX-01 toward first-in-human trials for Gram-negative bacterial infections.
Series A Extension Fuels Clinical Push
The funding totals £30M after a £6M extension from AMR Action Fund in February 2026, building on the initial £24M round from 2022. Centauri also secured $5.1M from CARB-X in July 2025 and a £1M PACE grant in 2024 to progress ABX-01. This influx aligns with global efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance through non-dilutive grants alongside venture capital. The combination signals investor confidence in non-traditional immunotherapy amid stagnant antibiotic pipelines.
Gram-Negative Infections Threaten Vulnerable
Centauri targets life-threatening Gram-negative bacterial infections, which challenge existing antibiotics due to outer membrane barriers. Current solutions falter in immunocompromised patients lacking vaccine-induced immunity. The company's focus addresses vulnerable populations where immediate immune activation proves critical. Alphamer® offers a vaccine-independent path by leveraging ubiquitous pre-existing antibodies.
Alphamer Redirects Innate Antibodies
Alphamer® molecules bind specific pathogen targets via aptamers and display sugar epitopes that recruit polyclonal antibodies naturally present in most individuals. This triggers rapid immune clearance without requiring new antibody production or prior exposure. Unlike monoclonal antibodies or vaccines, which demand time or fail in the immunocompromised, Alphamer® activates defenses instantly. Proof-of-concept data for Gram-negative infections validates the approach.
The concept originated from Nobel Laureate Kary Mullis, inventor of PCR, adding scientific pedigree to the platform. An extensive patent portfolio safeguards applications in infectious diseases and oncology.
Big Pharma Backs Antibody Redirection
Investors include Wren Capital, IQ Capital Partners, Boehringer Ingelheim, Evotec, Animatrix Capital, and AMR Action Fund. Boehringer Ingelheim's participation provides strategic validation from a major pharma player with oncology expertise. Evotec's involvement signals drug development acceleration potential. The investor mix blends deep tech VCs with sector specialists, positioning Centauri for clinical milestones and potential partnerships.
AMR Grants Complement VC Inflows
Non-profits like CARB-X and AMR Action Fund prioritize novel platforms amid rising resistance threats. Centauri's £30M Series A plus $7.8M in grants totals over $48M raised. This funding pattern reflects sector conviction in redirecting innate immunity over conventional antibiotics. The approach extends to oncology, broadening addressable opportunities.
ABX-01 Enters Human Trials Soon
With CARB-X funding secured, ABX-01 advances to first-in-human trials targeting Gram-negative infections. Centauri plans oncology pipeline expansion using the same platform. Recent appointment of Dr. Debra Barker as CMO bolsters clinical execution. These steps position the 24-person team for proof-of-concept in patients.