Nova Anchora

Developing a corrective topical biologic therapy for Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa (DEB)

An Overview of DEB

DEB is a rare, genetic skin disease — a particularly debilitating form of Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), which is sometimes called “butterfly disease” due to the fragility of patients’ skin (similar to a butterfly’s wings).

In affected individuals, collagen VII (C7) — a protein that forms “anchoring fibrils” that attach the skin’s outer protective layer (epidermis) — is not functioning correctly. As a result, even light rubbing of the skin can cause blistering or tearing, frequently causing open wounds to form and persist.

Nova Anchora’s approach

Nova Anchora is advancing NvA-021, an investigative therapeutic gel designed to apply to patients’ wounds during normal bandage changes. NvA-021 contains a genetically corrected version of C7. The NvA program holds an exclusive license from Stanford University for technology designed to ensure the stability of manufactured C7.

In relation to existing approved treatments, NvA-021 is being developed to, in particular, address treatment gaps and enhance ease-of-use.

Current development status

Nova Anchora has received Pre-IND feedback from the FDA, and is initiating studies that enable clinical trials. The FDA has also granted Nova Anchora Orphan Drug and Rare Pediatric special designations.

Our Team

Jason Bhardwaj

20+ years in healthcare and biotech leadership; Duke Biomedical B.S.E., Harvard M.B.A. Previously CEO Follica (Derm Pre-IND to Ph3-ready); Tal Medical, Medtronic, Bain & Company

Co-Founder, CEO

Dr. Peter Marinkovich

Associate Professor of Dermatology at Stanford, Faculty of Epithelial Biology and Cancer Biology. Key Opinion Leader in the EB field. Primary investigator for several clinical programs, including approved therapies for DEB

Co-Founder, Chair of the SAB

Senior Director of CMC

Rachel Quesenberry

15+ years in complex biopharma process development with recombinant protein and AAV focus; UMBC B.S., UCLA Ph.D., Previously Head of CMC Downstream Process Development, Vertex

Senior Director of Translational and Nonclinical

Nadia Gurvich

15+ years leading translational and IND-enabling development for biologics and small molecules; Yeshiva B.A., University of Pennsylvania Ph.D., Previously Dir. of Biology at Sonata Tx., a Flagship company