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Skin in the game: Dermatology biotech Azitra prices IPO at $5 midpoint

June 16, 2023
AZTR

Azitra, a Phase 1-ready dermatology biotech developing engineered bacterial therapies, raised $8 million by offering 1.5 million shares at $5.00, within the range of $4.50 to $5.50.

Azitra is focused on developing engineered proteins and live biotherapeutic products that can be applied topically to treat diseases of the skin. The company has a microbial library comprised of approximately 1,500 unique bacterial strains that can be screened for unique therapeutic characteristics. Azitra's initial focus is on the development of genetically engineered strains of Staphylococcus epidermidis. Its pipeline is currently led by ATR-12, a genetically modified strain of S. epidermidis being developed for orphan disease Netherton syndrome that is expected to enter a Phase ‌1b trial in the 1H23. The company also has a joint development agreement with Bayer to investigate and develop two strains of bacterial microbes for consumer/cosmetic products.

Azitra plans to list on the NYSE American under the symbol AZTR. ThinkEquity acted as sole bookrunner on the deal.