Apini Secures Major Investment as Part of Slingshot Therapeutics Launch

Apini, a spinout from The University of Manchester and the first programme launched through newly formed Slingshot Therapeutics Limited (“Slingshot”), is poised to accelerate the development of its promising small molecule therapy for inflammatory diseases. As part of a substantial £12.5 million investment from Syncona Limited (“Syncona”), Apini stands to make significant advancements towards the clinic, addressing critical unmet medical needs.

Slingshot, created by Syncona, is an innovative platform designed to transform promising academic research into industry-ready biotech assets. With Apini at the forefront, Slingshot will leverage this substantial investment to advance Apini’s therapeutic programme and build a pipeline of additional opportunities. By providing expert resources, operational support, and funding, Slingshot aims to fast-track the transition of academic discoveries into clinical solutions.

Apini is based on the groundbreaking work of Professor Sam Butterworth at The University of Manchester. Professor Butterworth, an esteemed figure in drug discovery and structure-based design, brings extensive experience to Apini’s development. His notable contributions to the field include being an inventor of Tagrisso, a life-saving drug for EGFR mutant lung cancer that is widely used worldwide.

Roisin McCallion, Business Development and Investment Director of the University of Manchester Innovation Factory, commented: “We’re delighted to see Apini, a spinout based on extensive research at The University of Manchester, develop with significant investment and in partnership with Slingshot Therapeutics. With Slingshot’s expertise and backing, Apini is set to make great strides towards becoming a transformative therapy, addressing the critical challenges of chronic inflammatory disease. At the Innovation Factory, we’re passionate about developing such valuable partnerships, connecting research to the resources and expertise that can truly make a difference.”

Reflecting on this partnership, Professor Sam Butterworth, Founder of Apini, said: “Joining forces with Slingshot Therapeutics is an incredible opportunity for Apini to progress rapidly. With the support of Slingshot and the significant investment from Syncona, we are well-equipped to advance our work on inflammatory diseases and bring meaningful therapies closer to patients. This collaboration represents a pivotal step in translating our research from the lab to clinical impact.”

The University of Manchester Innovation Factory is dedicated to working closely with academics to identify research with the potential to transform society. By providing comprehensive support in protecting intellectual property, attracting investment, and establishing partnerships, the Innovation Factory enables researchers to commercialise groundbreaking ideas that address real-world challenges and foster positive societal impact.