NewLimit raises US$45m for epigenetic longevity drugs

NewLimit has secured an extra US$45m on a US$1.62bn valuation to advance epigenetic reprogramming medicines and prepare for a first clinical study in the coming years.

The company is developing therapies to restore youthful function in older cells. Epigenetic reprogramming aims to reset chemical “tags” on DNA and its packaging proteins, restoring healthier gene activity without changing the DNA sequence.

NewLimit says technical progress since its Series B five months ago has accelerated its lead programmes and given it confidence to start planning clinical studies in the near term.

Backers in this round include Eli Lilly and Company, Duke Management Co and Section 32. Insiders Kleiner Perkins, Dimension, Abstract, Human Capital and Boost also participated. The company said the funds will support development of its longevity pipeline.