CGT Catapult backs viral cancer immunotherapy platform

Stratosvir has secured support from the Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult (CGT Catapult), including investment through the Cross-Catapult Investment Pilot, to advance the preclinical development of its anticancer platform.

The UK-based biotechnology company is developing therapeutic viruses designed for intravenous delivery, aiming to overcome limitations associated with tumour-targeted injections. The approach seeks to enable systemic treatment while stimulating an immune response against cancer cells.

Stratosvir’s platform is intended to combine direct tumour cell killing with activation of the immune system and the generation of long-term immune memory. The technology is currently in preclinical development.

The investment is part of a pilot programme, supported by Innovate UK, that enables Catapult organisations to make seed investments in early-stage companies. The initiative aims to help high-potential UK businesses scale and accelerate the development of new therapies.

The funding adds to backing from existing investors including Prostate Cancer Research and o2h Ventures, supporting further development of therapies targeting prostate and other cancers.

Christopher Ullman, CEO of Stratosvir, said the support would help translate its research into clinical candidates.

Matthew Durdy, Chief Executive of CGT Catapult, said the technology has potential to address unmet needs in cancer treatment.

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