Centauri Therapeutics Secures $5.1 Million for ABX-01 Trials

Centauri Therapeutics Limited, an innovative immunotherapy company, has received an additional $5.1 million from CARB-X (Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria Biopharmaceutical Accelerator). This funding will support the advancement of their lead compound, part of the ABX-01 program, into the first in human clinical trials. With this latest contribution, CARB-X has provided a total of $12.3 million to Centauri since 2019.

The funding will aid in the development of a broad-spectrum antimicrobial candidate specifically designed to combat multidrug-resistant bacterial strains. Selected in March 2025, the candidate aims to target serious Gram-negative bacterial infections, particularly in vulnerable patient populations. Centauri’s proprietary Alphamer platform underpins this innovative approach, enabling a dual mechanism of action. This combines immunotherapeutic effects through complement fixation and phagocytosis with intrinsic antibacterial properties, all within a single molecule.

Dr. Jennifer Schneider, Chief Executive Officer of Centauri Therapeutics, emphasized the importance of CARB-X’s support. “The unwavering scientific and financial support from CARB-X has provided stability to Centauri as a company, expanded understanding of our Alphamer platform, and enabled us to progress the ABX-01 program from discovery through early development,” she stated. “We are thankful for CARB-X and their continued engagement and confidence, allowing us to move closer to delivering a much-needed therapeutic for serious, drug-resistant Gram-negative infections.”

Dr. Erin Duffy, Chief of Research and Development at CARB-X, also expressed pride in supporting Centauri’s journey. “We have been proud to support Centauri, beginning with answering key questions on the approach and continuing with the drug discovery that has led to the lead asset of ABX-01,” she noted. This collaborative effort aims to build a comprehensive dossier to facilitate the transition into human clinical trials.

The funding provided by CARB-X is underpinned by federal funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), along with support from Wellcome and Germany’s Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space. The content of this announcement reflects the authors’ views and does not necessarily represent the official perspectives of CARB-X or its funders.

As Centauri Therapeutics moves forward, the development of ABX-01 represents a crucial step in addressing the urgent need for effective treatments against drug-resistant infections. The company’s commitment to innovation, combined with significant funding support, positions it well to make substantial contributions to public health in the fight against antibiotic resistance.