ExeVir Bio

ExeVir Bio is a clinical-stage biotechnology company that develops antibody-based therapies for the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases, with an initial focus on COVID-19 and dengue. The company was spun out of VIB, a leading Belgian life sciences research institute, in 2020. Its scientific foundation is based on the research of Prof. Xavier Saelens and Prof. Nico Callewaert of VIB and Ghent University.

ExeVir utilizes a proprietary technology platform based on llama-derived, single-domain antibody fragments known as VHHs. These VHHs are smaller and more stable than traditional human antibodies, allowing them to bind to conserved regions on viral particles that are often inaccessible to other antibody types. This approach is designed to create therapies that are effective against a broad range of viral variants and less susceptible to viral escape. The company's modular platform allows for the creation of multi-specific antibodies that can target multiple viral epitopes simultaneously.

The company's business model centers on the clinical development and subsequent commercialization of its antibody candidates. It targets vulnerable patient populations, such as the immunocompromised and the elderly, who may not have an adequate response to vaccines. ExeVir's lead programs are focused on COVID-19, with candidates like XVR012 and XVR013m demonstrating high potency in neutralizing current and past variants of concern. The company has also initiated research into dengue fever. To fund its research and development, ExeVir has secured significant financing, including a €42 million Series A round led by Fund+ and a venture debt financing agreement of up to €25 million from the European Investment Bank.

Keywords: antibody therapy, infectious diseases, VHH technology, nanobody, camelid antibodies, antiviral, COVID-19 treatment, dengue fever, pan-coronavirus, immunocompromised patients, clinical-stage biotech, single-domain antibody, viral neutralization, VIB spin-off, biotherapeutics, prophylactic, viral variants, epitope targeting, antibody engineering, life sciences