Bayer, Novartis-backed Immunitas secures $58M series B to push new checkpoint inhibitors past blockade

Initially backed by Novartis and Bayers venture arms, immuno-oncology biotech Immunitas has secured another $58 million to push a new class of checkpoint inhibitors on to the next stop. Immunitas is attempting to tackle the hurdles traditionally associated with checkpoint inhibitors, which dont work for everyone and typically require combination regimens with investigational drugs to boost their clinical potential. The company emerged on the scene in 2019 with funding from Big Pharmas like Bayer and Novartis, through their venture outfits, along with other investment firms. A regulatory filing to begin clinical studies is slated for the first half of next year, said CEO Jeffrey Goldberg in an interview with Fierce Biotech. The biotech boosted its leadership team in conjunction with the financing by promoting Amanda Wagner to chief business officer from vice president of strategy.