A new biotech company in the Canaan portfolio is unveiled! Vima Therapeutics will deploy the $60M Series A from Atlas Ventures, Access Industries and Canaan Partners towards the first oral therapy for people with dystonia and related movement disorders. Vima is currently advancing their lead program, VIM0423, in a Phase 1 study and will begin treating dystonia patients in a Phase 2 study in late 2025.
Dystonia is a chronic, disabling condition that impacts over 100,000 people in the U.S. alone. These patients suffer from uncontrolled muscle cramps and spasms driven by abnormal signaling in the brain. The involuntary contractions leave parts of the body twisted into unusual positions (e.g., neck twisted to the side, feet turning inward), tremors, shakes, and changes in facial expression. The pain and psychological burden from the condition is significant.
For too long, patients and families have faced limited treatment options that often fail to address the root cause of the disorder or come with significant side effects. The founders and management team bring decades of experience in dystonia, neuroscience, and biotech operations to this field. Beyond their expertise, they are patient-centric and engaged advocacy groups from the start. They care about supporting the whole person, and returning dignity to patients as well as treating their condition.
At Canaan Partners, we are passionate about supporting visionary teams who bring scientific innovation to areas of high unmet need, in particular therapeutic areas that are often overlooked or under-appreciated. We believe VIM0423 has the potential to be a true game-changer for patients who have long been underserved by existing therapies.
Congratulations to the entire Vima team on this important milestone. Canaan Partners is proud to stand alongside you as you work to deliver better solutions and brighter futures for people living with dystonia and related movement disorders.