RESEARCH TRIANGLE, N.C., Oct. 22, 2025 -- Basking Biosciences (Basking), invested by Viva BioInnovator (VBI), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing the first reversible thrombolytic therapy for acute ischemic stroke (AIS), announced the first patients dosed in Part B of its Phase 2 RAISE trial of BB-031. BB-031 is an investigational RNA aptamer targeting von Willebrand Factor (vWF), a key mediator of clot formation and stabilization. By promoting clot dissolution and restoring blood flow to the brain, BB-031, along with its complementary rapid-acting reversal agent, BB-025, has the potential to significantly expand access to timely, effective treatment for patients with AIS.
Progression into Part B, supported by encouraging early results from Part A and the recommendation of the Data Safety Monitoring Committee (DSMC), triggered the release of the second $27.5 million tranche of the company's $55 million financing. First announced in January 2024, the financing is led by ARCH Venture Partners, with participation from Insight Partners, Platanus, Solas BioVentures, RTW, Longview Ventures, and others. The new funds will support the execution of Part B of the Phase 2 RAISE trial and a planned Phase 1 study of BB-025.
Basking also announced the appointment of Julia C. Owens, Ph.D., as chief executive officer. Dr. Owens brings extensive leadership experience in biopharmaceutical company building and drug development, having served as CEO of Ananke Therapeutics and founder and CEO of Millendo Therapeutics. She has held board roles at both emerging and publicly traded companies and currently serves on the board of Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) and other organizations. As CEO, Julia will focus on steering the company as it enters a new stage of growth. Richard Shea, who has served as Basking's CEO since the company's founding in 2019, will transition to president and chief operating officer, ensuring leadership continuity and a sustained focus on Basking's track record of operational excellence as the company advances into later-stage clinical development.
About Basking Biosciences
Basking Biosciences is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to changing the way potentially life-threatening blood clots are treated. Its novel therapies are designed to significantly improve safety and efficacy, broadening access to many more patients. The company's lead candidate, BB-031, is the first rapid-onset, short-acting thrombolytic therapy with a reversal agent, currently in development for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke. By inhibiting von Willebrand Factor (vWF), a key driver in clot formation, BB-031 offers targeted, potent thrombolytic activity that, together with its reversal agent, could enable more patients to receive timely, life-saving treatment after stroke. For more information, visit www.baskingbiosciences.com.
