Anti-PACAP Therapy Company Slate Medicines Launches with $130M
Anti-PACAP therapy developer Slate Medicines has launched with $130 million in Series A financing to advance a next-generation migraine prevention treatment. The company also in-licensed SLTE-1009, an anti-PACAP monoclonal antibody, from DartsBio Pharmaceuticals to accelerate clinical development in headache disorders.
With strong investor backing, Slate Medicines aims to expand therapeutic options for patients who do not respond adequately to existing migraine treatments.
SLTE-1009 Strengthens Anti-PACAP Therapy Pipeline
SLTE-1009, also known as DS009, is a monoclonal antibody targeting PACAP for migraine prevention. Unlike CGRP-based treatments, anti-PACAP therapy offers a differentiated mechanism of action. Therefore, it may address unmet needs among patients with insufficient response to current preventive therapies.
PACAP has emerged as a clinically validated target in migraine research. Moreover, SLTE-1009 has been engineered with half-life extension technology, enabling convenient subcutaneous dosing. As a result, patients may benefit from flexible at-home administration.
Leadership Advancing Anti-PACAP Therapy Innovation
Slate Medicines is led by CEO Gregory Oakes, who brings more than 30 years of biopharma experience. He previously held executive leadership roles and most recently served as a Venture Partner at RA Capital’s healthcare incubator, Raven.
The executive team also includes President and COO Neil Buckley and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Roger Cady, a recognized headache specialist. Together, they bring clinical, operational, and commercialization expertise to drive anti-PACAP therapy development forward.
Strategic Investors Support Migraine Prevention Program
In conjunction with the financing, representatives from RA Capital, Forbion, and Foresite Capital joined the Board of Directors. Additionally, Slate Medicines was co-founded by Neil Buckley and Sera Medicines, a biologics-focused accelerator backed by RA Capital.
Legal advisory services for the licensing transaction and financing were provided by Cooley LLP.
Expanding Treatment Options for Headache Disorders
Migraine remains one of the most prevalent neurological conditions worldwide. However, many patients continue to experience limited relief. By advancing anti-PACAP therapy, Slate Medicines seeks to offer a novel preventive approach.
As clinical development progresses, the company plans to further strengthen its pipeline in headache disorders. Ultimately, this launch signals a significant step toward improving long-term outcomes for patients living with migraine.
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