Trace Neuroscience

About Trace Neuroscience

Trace Neuroscience is a biopharmaceutical company that launched in November 2024, dedicated to developing genomic medicines for neurodegenerative diseases, with an initial focus on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The company was established based on the convergent discoveries of its co-founders, who identified the link between the abnormal function of the TDP-43 protein and the loss of the UNC13A protein, a critical component for communication between nerve and muscle cells. In nearly all individuals with ALS, this process breaks down, leading to the disease's characteristic progression.

The company was co-founded by CEO Eric Green, M.D., Ph.D.; Pietro Fratta, M.D., Ph.D., a Professor at University College London; Aaron Gitler, Ph.D., a Professor at Stanford University; and Michael Ward, M.D., Ph.D., a Senior Investigator at the National Institutes of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). Dr. Green, a cardiologist-turned-entrepreneur, previously co-founded Maze Therapeutics and was driven by the goal of applying precision genetic medicine to diseases with high unmet need, placing ALS at the top of his list. The simultaneous discoveries by Drs. Gitler, Fratta, and Ward regarding the role of UNC13A in ALS provided the scientific foundation and 'aha' moment for the company's formation.

Trace Neuroscience's primary business is the development of novel therapies. Its lead program is an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) designed to restore the function of the UNC13A protein. This approach targets the underlying cause of disease in approximately 97% of ALS patients, where the UNC13A messenger RNA (mRNA) is improperly spliced due to TDP-43 dysfunction. The ASO therapy works by binding to the UNC13A mRNA to ensure its correct processing, thereby restoring protein levels and re-establishing healthy neuronal communication. The company's business model is centered on advancing this lead program through clinical trials, with human testing anticipated to begin in early 2026. Upon launching, Trace Neuroscience secured $101 million in a Series A financing round led by Third Rock Ventures, with participation from Atlas Venture, GV, and RA Capital Management. This substantial funding is intended to advance the lead program into the clinic. While the initial market is ALS, the company sees potential for its UNC13A restoration therapies to treat other neurodegenerative conditions like frontotemporal dementia and Alzheimer's disease.