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NanoPhoria

Biotech & Life Sciences · Milan, Italy · Founded 2022

NanoPhoria is a pre-clinical stage biotechnology company founded in 2022 and headquartered in Milan, Italy. The company originated as a spin-off from Italy's largest public research institution, the National Research Council (CNR). It was co-founded by Dr. Daniele Catalucci, a Molecular Biologist; Dr. Michele Iafisco, a Chemist; Dr. Alessio Alogna, a Cardiologist and Clinical Scientist; and Claudio De Luca, a life science executive who also serves as the CEO. The founders' diverse backgrounds in science, medicine, and industry are integral to the company's management and strategy. The firm is developing a versatile, non-viral drug delivery platform that utilizes inorganic calcium-phosphate nanoparticles. These biomimetic nano-carriers can be loaded with biologics like peptides and RNAs for targeted delivery to specific organs and cells, with administration options including inhalation. The primary focus is on pioneering inhalable treatments for cardiovascular diseases. NanoPhoria's business model centers on the clinical development of its proprietary platform to address unmet medical needs. The company secures capital through venture funding and grants to advance its products through the demanding phases of pre-clinical and human trials. Key investors include Sofinnova Partners and the European Innovation Council. NanoPhoria's lead product, NP-MP1, is a first-in-class treatment for Heart Failure with reduced Ejection Fraction (HFrEF), a condition affecting millions globally. NP-MP1 is an inhalable nano-in-micro formulation that delivers a proprietary peptide designed to modulate calcium channels and restore myocardial contractility, addressing the root cause of the disease rather than just the symptoms. This targeted lung-to-heart delivery approach has shown significant efficacy in pre-clinical models, demonstrating the potential to improve heart function, reverse cardiac remodeling, and reduce systemic side effects. The company has received significant funding, including a €3.5 million seed investment from Sofinnova Partners in 2022 and a €17.5 million commitment from the EIC Accelerator program in 2025, to advance NP-MP1 into first-in-human studies. Keywords: non-viral drug delivery, nanoparticle platform, cardiovascular treatments, heart failure, HFrEF, inhalable biologics, calcium-phosphate nanoparticles, nanomedicine, peptide delivery, RNA delivery, targeted therapy, preclinical biotech, Sofinnova Partners, European Innovation Council, CNR spin-off, nano-in-micro technology, lung-to-heart delivery, myocardial contractility, calcium channel modulator, cardiac recovery