Aspen Neuroscience Secures $115M Series C Funding to Advance Parkinson's Cell Therapy

Aspen Neuroscience, a San Diego-based biotech company, has successfully closed a $115 million Series C funding round, propelling its innovative cell therapy program for Parkinson's disease into late-stage development. The substantial investment, led by OrbiMed, ARCH Venture Partners, Frazier Life Sciences, and Revelation Partners, marks a significant milestone in the company's journey towards bringing its autologous stem cell-derived treatment to market.

ANPD001: A Novel Approach to Parkinson's Treatment

Aspen's lead program, ANPD001, is an investigational autologous dopaminergic neuronal precursor cell (DANPC) therapy that utilizes a patient's own skin cells. These cells are reprogrammed into pluripotent stem cells and then differentiated into neurons, which are subsequently transplanted back into the patient's brain. This approach aims to replace damaged nerve cells in Parkinson's patients without the need for immunosuppression.

The therapy is currently undergoing a Phase I/II study, with enrollment for a third cohort having begun in September. Damien McDevitt, Aspen's CEO, confirmed that the recent funding could pave the way for a Phase III study as early as next year, pending alignment with the FDA. A regulatory meeting is expected in the first half of 2026 to discuss the path forward.

Manufacturing Scale-Up and Pipeline Expansion

Beyond advancing ANPD001, Aspen plans to allocate the Series C proceeds towards scaling its manufacturing capabilities and progressing other pipeline programs. These include preclinical autologous stem cell-derived assets targeting undisclosed neurological diseases.

McDevitt emphasized the company's strong financial position, stating, "Aspen is currently well-funded and is in a strong position for optionality with additional fundraising, IPO or deals to continue advancing our programs, ensuring this novel treatment approach can get to as many patients as possible."

Future Outlook and Industry Context

As Aspen Neuroscience moves forward with its ambitious plans, the company joins a select group of cell therapy developers focusing on central nervous system disorders. The substantial funding round stands out in a year where venture capital for cell and gene therapy makers has been relatively scarce.

With a total of $340 million raised to date, including an $8 million grant from the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Aspen is well-positioned to continue its pursuit of innovative treatments for Parkinson's disease and potentially other neurological conditions. The company's progress will be closely watched by industry observers and patients alike, as it represents a promising step forward in the field of regenerative medicine for neurodegenerative diseases.