Escient Pharmaceuticals, a privately held biotechnology company, has launched USD40m Series A financing.

It was reported yesterday that the company has raised funds to advance G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR)-targeted drugs to address serious, unserved medical needs. Focused on utilising the therapeutic potential of specific orphan GPCRs, including the novel family of Mas-Related G-Protein Receptors (Mrgprs), Escient will initially pursue therapies for neuro-immuno-inflammatory and autoreactive diseases.

The firm will use proceeds from the Series A financing, syndicated by The Column Group and 5AM Ventures and joined by Osage University Partners, to build out its team, advance its pipeline, and progress its initial preclinical programs to clinical study.