MedTechInvestment

Listed biotechnology firm e-therapeutics has raised £22.5 million in a conditional share placing.

The Newcastle University spin-out last year expanded into RNA interference as a therapeutic modality to pursue drug discovery outcomes.

Former long-time CEO of Silence Therapeutics and former professional chess player Ali Mortazavi is credited with a successful reorganisation of the business last year.

He became CEO and chairman in October but stepped down from the latter position recently as the roles were split.

Professor Trevor Jones, a non-executive director at the firm since 2015, became the new chair.

Last year Mortazavi oversaw a raise of £11.6m growth funding to expand its platform capabilities, asset pipeline, team and relocate its head office in Oxford – where it is now based – and open a new London base.