CellCentric Secures $220M Series D Funding to Advance Multiple Myeloma Drug
Participants
Why It Matters
The infusion of $220 million accelerates development of a potentially first‑in‑class oral therapy for heavily pre‑treated multiple myeloma, addressing an unmet need and could reshape later‑line treatment paradigms. Success would also reinforce Europe’s emerging role as a hub for large‑scale biotech fundraising.
Key Takeaways
- •CellCentric raised $220 M Series D, Europe’s largest biotech fundraise 2026.
- •Funding will launch Phase 3 DOMMINO‑2 trial for inobrodib in late 2026.
- •Phase 2 data showed double response rates versus existing therapies for relapsed patients.
- •Inobrodib aims to be first oral, home‑administered treatment for heavily pre‑treated myeloma.
- •Series D led by Venrock, with Pfizer, Fidelity, Sofinnova, RA Capital, Forbion.
Pulse Analysis
Europe’s biotech financing landscape has shifted dramatically, with private capital now rivaling traditional venture sources in the United States. CellCentric’s $220 million Series D underscores this trend, marking the continent’s biggest biotech raise of 2026 and signaling investor confidence in novel, late‑stage assets. The participation of heavyweight firms such as Pfizer and Fidelity not only validates the scientific promise of inobrodib but also highlights Europe’s growing appeal as a launchpad for globally relevant drug programs.
Inobrodib, a p300/CBP inhibitor, represents a rare oral approach to treating relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma, a space dominated by injectable antibodies and cellular therapies. Phase 2 results presented at the American Society of Hematology showed at least a two‑fold increase in response rates compared with standard options for patients previously exposed to bispecific T‑cell engagers or anti‑BCMA agents. By moving the candidate into a Phase 3, open‑label, pivotal trial (DOMMINO‑2) slated for 2026, CellCentric aims to secure a first‑in‑class label that could simplify administration, reduce hospital visits, and broaden access for heavily pre‑treated patients.
Strategically, the funding will also fuel combination studies and maintenance strategies, expanding the drug’s potential market beyond the current indication. If the Phase 3 readout in 2029 confirms efficacy and safety, inobrodib could capture a sizable share of the $6 billion multiple myeloma treatment market, while reinforcing Europe’s reputation as a source of breakthrough therapeutics. The success of this round may encourage further large‑scale European biotech fundraises, accelerating the pipeline of innovative, patient‑centric therapies.
Deal Summary
CellCentric, a UK‑ and US‑based biotech, raised $220 million in a Series D round led by Venrock Healthcare Capital Partners, with participation from Pfizer, Fidelity Management & Research Company, Sofinnova Partners, RA Capital Management and Forbion. The capital will fund a Phase 3 trial of its lead candidate inobrodib for multiple myeloma and expand combination studies.
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