CellCentric Series D $220m for oral blood cancer drug trials

CellCentric, a clinical-stage biotechnology company spun out from the University of Cambridge in 2003, has raised $220 million in Series D funding to accelerate development of its oral drug inobrodib for multiple myeloma and other cancers. The investment was led by Venrock Healthcare Capital Partners, with participation from existing and new investors. Inobrodib, a first-in-class oral p300/CBP inhibitor, has shown clinical activity in over 500 patients across hematologic malignancies and solid tumors, with Phase 2 data revealing a two-fold increase in response rates when combined with pomalidomide and dexamethasone (InoPd) in heavily pretreated patients. The drug is currently advancing through pivotal studies, including the Phase 2 DOMMINO-1 trial in the UK and US and the upcoming global Phase 3 DOMMINO-2 trial set to begin in late 2026. Inobrodib’s oral capsule format allows for home administration without intensive monitoring, addressing a critical need for patients who have exhausted prior therapies, including bispecific T cell engagers like elranatamab and teclistamab. The FDA has previously granted Fast Track and orphan drug designations to inobrodib for relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). Founded by epigenomics expert Azim Surani, CellCentric’s research focuses on transcription co-activation proteins p300 and CBP, which drive gene expression in cancers like MYC and IRF4. Trial sites are active across the US, UK, and EU, with collaborations involving over 25 leading academic research groups worldwide. CEO Will West highlighted the drug’s potential as a fresh, orally administered option for patients with unmet needs, particularly after bispecific therapies. The funding will support the expansion of inobrodib’s development, including its exploration in combination with other agents. Venrock partner Ken Greenberg emphasized the drug’s consistent clinical activity and manageable safety profile, positioning it as a promising later-line therapy for multiple myeloma. CellCentric retains full development and commercial rights to inobrodib, reinforcing its commitment to advancing innovative treatments for cancer patients.