Cerenis: Synthesize, don't mimic

Drugs such as statins can reduce circulating cholesterol and prevent the progression of atherosclerotic plaques, but none are able to promote the regression of plaques. Cerenis Therapeutics Holding SA says that it can address this limitation, first through administration of synthetic high density lipoprotein (HDL) - the "good" cholesterol - and later through the use of small molecule therapeutics.

Cerenis (Toulouse, France) this week was expected to announce a series A financing of E25 million ($31.1 million). Investors will include Sofinnova; Healthcap; Alta Partners; EDF; and Japanese venture capital firm NIF. ...