MapLight Therapeutics recently announced a highly successful and oversubscribed Series D financing round, raising an impressive $372.5 million. This substantial investment underscores strong confidence from both new and existing investors in MapLight's innovative approach to addressing central nervous system (CNS) disorders. The financing was co-led by prominent firms Forbion and Life Sciences at Goldman Sachs Alternatives, with significant participation from new investors including Sanofi, accounts advised by T. Rowe Price Investment Management, Inc., and Avego BioScience Capital. Crucially, MapLight also saw robust continued support from its existing shareholders, such as funds managed by Novo Holdings and 5AM Ventures.

The primary allocation of these funds will be to advance ML-007C-MA, MapLight’s lead program, through its ongoing Phase 2 clinical trials for both schizophrenia and Alzheimer’s disease psychosis. ML-007C-MA is an oral fixed-dose combination designed to activate specific M1 and M4 muscarinic receptors in the brain for efficacy, while a co-formulated peripheral anticholinergic aims to reduce unwanted side effects. Beyond these pivotal trials, the financing will also support the exploration of ML-007C-MA for other potential indications and further advance MapLight’s broader clinical and preclinical pipeline programs.

Christopher Kroeger, M.D., M.B.A., CEO and Founder of MapLight, highlighted that the caliber of the new investors and the continued strong backing from existing shareholders validate the company's compelling vision, differentiated product pipeline, and commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of patients and their families affected by debilitating brain disorders. In connection with the financing, Nanna Lüneborg, Ph.D., M.B.A., General Partner at Forbion, will join MapLight’s Board of Directors, reinforcing the strategic partnership aimed at bringing these crucial innovations to patients.