Advanced Bionics (AB) has announced an equity investment and research collaboration with Spiral Therapeutics, as part of Spiral’s recently completed $27 million Series B financing, aimed at exploring new approaches to cochlear implant innovation and inner ear therapeutics.
Spiral Therapeutics, a clinical-stage company developing therapies for inner ear disorders, said the financing was led by Gund Investment and included new strategic participation from Advanced Bionics and a major global pharmaceutical company, alongside continued support from existing investors.
The collaboration brings together Advanced Bionics’ experience in cochlear implant technology with Spiral Therapeutics’ work in precision drug delivery for the inner ear. According to the companies, the effort will focus on early-stage research into how novel drug-delivery methods could support future developments in cochlear implant technology, including potential use during cochlear implant procedures.
“Through this collaboration, we are combining two highly complementary R&D capabilities to explore what could become a new innovation chapter in cochlear implant technology. Our focus is firmly on responsible, science-driven development that has the potential to benefit patients in meaningful ways over time.”
–Fernando Chapa, Senior Vice President, Global R&D Advanced Bionics
Exploring drug delivery in cochlear implant procedures
Spiral Therapeutics has developed a drug-delivery platform designed to provide minimally invasive, precise, and sustained delivery of therapeutics to the cochlea. As part of the collaboration, the companies will investigate how this platform could potentially be integrated into cochlear implant surgery to address unmet needs in the field.
The companies noted that the work is currently in an early-stage R&D phase, but reflects broader interest in combining device-based hearing technologies with therapeutic approaches.
Financing supports pipeline and platform development
Spiral Therapeutics said proceeds from the Series B financing will support the advancement of its pipeline programs, including SPT-2101, as well as expansion of its proprietary MICS™ (Minimally-Invasive Cochlear System) platform.
The company’s lead program, SPT-2101, has demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in vertigo in patients with Ménière’s disease, and Spiral is preparing for a registrational clinical trial.
“This financing is a major milestone for Spiral. It brings Advanced Bionics on as a strategic partner, welcomes Gund Investment as our Series B lead, and reinforces the continued support of our existing investors. Inner ear disorders are finally gaining the strategic attention long warranted by their prevalence and impact. Spiral stands out as one of a select few companies with a truly differentiated platform capable of enabling a robust pipeline of inner ear therapeutics.”
–Hugo Peris, Founder and CEO of Spiral Therapeutics
Ongoing focus on innovation
Advanced Bionics stated that the collaboration is part of its broader strategy to invest in emerging technologies that may support long-term improvements in hearing outcomes for individuals with hearing loss.
Spiral Therapeutics noted that inner ear disorders remain an area of significant unmet medical need and relatively limited therapeutic innovation, despite their prevalence and impact.
About Spiral Therapeutics
Spiral Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing novel therapies for inner ear disorders, including hearing loss and balance disorders. Spiral’s MICS™ (Minimally-Invasive Cochlear System) drug delivery platform is designed to enable minimally invasive, precise and durable exposure of therapeutics to the cochlea. The company is advancing a pipeline of programs intended to address significant unmet needs across inner ear diseases.
About Advanced Bionics
Advanced Bionics is a global leader in developing hearing solutions for individuals with severe-to-profound hearing loss who no longer benefit from hearing aids. Founded in 1993 and a subsidiary of the Sonova Group since 2009, AB develops cutting-edge cochlear implant technology that allows recipients to hear their best. AB joined Phonak as part of the Sonova Group of companies and began a collaboration unlike any other in the industry. Since then, the innovation leaders in cochlear implants and hearing aids have continuously combined technologies to deliver new, unequalled hearing solutions.
With sales in more than 80 countries and a proven track record for developing high-performing, state-of-the-art products, AB’s talented worldwide group of technologists and professionals are driven to engage with patients and professionals, work with integrity, and stay firmly committed to the best possible performance.
