University spinout secures major investment in drug development

07 Jan 2025

Apini, founded by Professor Sam Butterworth, is first programme launched through newly formed Slingshot Therapeutics Limited

Apini – a University spinout based on the groundbreaking drug development work of Professor Sam Butterworth – is poised to accelerate its development of promising small molecule therapy for inflammatory diseases with part of a substantial £12.5 million investment from Syncona Limited.

Apini is the first programme launched through newly formed Slingshot Therapeutics Limited. Created by Syncona, Slingshot is an innovative platform designed to transform promising academic research into industry-ready biotech assets.

With Apini at the forefront, Slingshot will leverage this substantial investment to advance Apini’s therapeutic programme and build a pipeline of additional opportunities. By providing expert resources, operational support, and funding, Slingshot aims to fast-track the transition of academic discoveries into clinical solutions.

Professor Butterworth brings extensive experience in drug discovery and structure-based design to Apini’s development. His notable contributions to the field include being an inventor of Tagrisso, a life-saving drug for EGFR mutant lung cancer that is widely used worldwide.

Professor Sam Butterworth, founder of Apini, said: “Joining forces with Slingshot Therapeutics is an incredible opportunity for Apini to progress rapidly. With the support of Slingshot and the significant investment from Syncona, we are well-equipped to advance our work on inflammatory diseases and bring meaningful therapies closer to patients. This collaboration represents a pivotal step in translating our research from the lab to clinical impact.”

Roisin McCallion, Business Development and Investment Director of the University of Manchester Innovation Factory, added: “We’re delighted to see Apini, a spinout based on extensive research at The University of Manchester, develop with significant investment and in partnership with Slingshot Therapeutics. With Slingshot’s expertise and backing, Apini is set to make great strides towards becoming a transformative therapy, addressing the critical challenges of chronic inflammatory disease.

“At the Innovation Factory, we’re passionate about developing such valuable partnerships, connecting research to the resources and expertise that can truly make a difference.”

The University of Manchester Innovation Factory is dedicated to working closely with academics to identify research with the potential to transform society. By providing comprehensive support in protecting intellectual property, attracting investment, and establishing partnerships, the Innovation Factory enables researchers to commercialise groundbreaking ideas that address real-world challenges and foster positive societal impact.