With $85M series B, Athira seeks to recover neuronal health in Alzheimer’s patients

Athira’s crossover-laden $85 million series B round will fund the start of a pivotal trial this year of an Alzheimer’s disease therapy that the company thinks could not only slow disease progression, but also improve cognitive function.

Perceptive Advisors led Athira Pharma Inc.’s round, which included new investors RTW Investments, Viking Global Investors, Venrock Healthcare Capital Partners, Franklin Templeton, Rock Springs Capital, LifeSci Venture Partners, Surveyor Capital, Highside Capital Management, Logos Capital, funds managed by Janus Henderson Investors, Sofinnova Investments and Avidity Partners. Existing investors including Rick and Suzanne Kayne and Sahsen Ventures also participated...