In-House Development Programs
ReadOn Therapeutics
Nonsense mutations in key structural skin proteins can prevent proper protein production and cause several forms of EB. Among these, mutations in collagen VII are particularly significant, as they underlie the dystrophic forms of the disease.
ReadOn Therapeutics gGmbH, a non-profit subsidiary of DEBRA Research created in partnership with Nonsense Therapeutics Ltd., focuses on pre-competitive drug development of read-through therapies for EB. By advancing this drug class independently of commercial priorities, ReadOn works to bring the most promising therapeutic candidates closer to clinical translation and, ultimately, to people living with EB.
Impact Investments
Nova Anchora
DEBRA Research has invested in Nova Anchora, a US-based biotech company developing protein replacement therapies for dystrophic EB (DEB). Its lead program, NvA-011, is a recombinant type VII collagen therapy designed to restore the defective protein that causes DEB.
By supporting this program alongside other mission-aligned partners, DEBRA Research supports the advancement of a targeted, topical therapy aimed at directly addressing the underlying cause of DEB. By combining philanthropic and strategic investment, this collaboration helps accelerate the development of innovative treatments that bring hope for people affected by severe forms of EB.
Learn more about our investment in Nova Anchora
Dermaliq
DEBRA Research has entered a strategic collaboration and investment partnership with Dermaliq Therapeutics, a US-based clinical-stage company developing next-generation topical therapies using its proprietary hyliQĀ® technology platform. The partnership focuses on improving cutaneous drug delivery and advancing innovative, touchless topical treatments for people living with EB, targeting key symptoms such as wound healing, itch, and prevention of new skin lesions.
Dermaliqās hyliQĀ® technology enables non-contact delivery of a wide range of therapeutic compounds directly to the skin and target cells. This approach could represent a major step forward in the delivery of future EB therapies. By supporting this, we help accelerate the development of new formulations and topical therapies that can improve both comfort and quality of life.
Learn more about our investment in Dermaliq Therapeutics
Eliksa
DEBRA Research has invested in Eliksa Therapeutics, a US-based biotechnology company developing ELK-003, a biological eye drop designed to treat ocular complications in people living with EB. Developed using a proprietary amniotic-fluid-derived formulation, ELK-003 aims to protect and repair the corneal surface. It is currently being evaluated in a clinical study conducted in collaboration with DEBRA Chile.
This joint investment, made with several EB-focused organizations, supports clinical development of a therapy targeting one of the most painful and underserved manifestations of EB.
