Claris Biotherapeutics raises $118M Series B to advance corneal stem-cell eye drop

Claris Biotherapeutics announced a $118 million Series B financing round led by Novo Holdings and supported by several venture firms. The funding will be used to move its lead candidate, CSB-001, into later‑stage development.

CSB-001 is an eye‑drop formulation originally tested for neurotrophic keratitis. After the initial study did not meet its goals, researchers observed that patients with limbal stem cell deficiency showed improvements in vision, prompting a strategic pivot.

The company now plans a pivotal trial focused on limbal stem cell deficiency, a rare condition that depletes regenerative cells in the cornea and can lead to significant vision loss. Investors see a sizable market opportunity for a therapy that can restore sight in these patients.

Novo Holdings, the controlling shareholder of Novo Nordisk, participated in the round, signaling confidence in the potential of the corneal disease platform and the broader eye‑health market.