ExeVir Bio

ExeVir Bio is a clinical-stage biotechnology company founded in 2020 that develops single-domain antibody-based therapies for infectious diseases. The company's primary focus is on creating treatments and preventive measures for Covid-19, particularly for immunocompromised patients who remain at high risk despite the availability of current vaccines. ExeVir utilizes a llama-derived antibody (VHH) technology platform to generate multi-specific antibodies for both prophylaxis and treatment of infectious diseases.

The company's lead asset, XVR012, is a combination of XVR013m and XVR014, which targets three distinct epitopes highly conserved across the broad sarbecovirus subgenus of Coronaviridae. XVR013m is a heavy chain-only antibody targeting a unique membrane-proximal epitope in the S2 subunit of the spike protein, while XVR014 is a bispecific heavy chain-only antibody that targets two epitopes in the receptor-binding domain of the S1 subunit. XVR012 demonstrated exceptional neutralization potency against all SARS-CoV-2 variants evaluated, including the highly prevalent E.G.5.1, HV.1, and BA.2.86.1 variants.

ExeVir's technology platform allows for the development of smaller antibodies that can access hidden epitopes traditional monoclonal antibodies cannot reach, potentially offering deeper tissue penetration and more cost-effective manufacturing. The company has demonstrated its ability to progress candidates from research to clinic in under a year, execute Phase 1a and 1 billion studies, and conduct scale-up manufacturing. In addition to its Covid-19 pipeline, ExeVir has initiated research on dengue, addressing the increasing global health burden due to climate change and urbanization.

Key customers and partnerships

ExeVir Bio has established several key partnerships to advance its research and development efforts. In April 2023, the company entered into a collaboration agreement with Nona Biosciences, aiming to accelerate the development of innovative therapeutics for unmet needs in infectious diseases. This partnership combines ExeVir's expertise in the disease area with Nona Biosciences' capabilities in antibody engineering.

ExeVir is a spin-out of VIB, Belgium's leading life sciences research institute, and has received support from various organizations. In January 2023, the company secured a venture debt financing agreement of up to EUR 25 million from the European Investment Bank (EIB) to advance its lead asset, XVR012, into clinical trials for Covid-19. Additionally, ExeVir has received support from VLAIO, SPW-Recherche, and the European Union, totaling EUR 16.5 million in non-dilutive funding.