Exciting News for Pet Health: Gallant Secures $18 Million for Stem Cell Therapy
In a groundbreaking development, San Diego-based startup Gallant has announced $18 million in funding to introduce the first FDA-approved ready-to-use stem cell therapy for veterinary medicine. This innovative treatment could revolutionize how we care for our beloved pets.
While stem cell research for human health has been ongoing for decades, the field of veterinary medicine is still in its experimental stages. Gallant, a seven-year-old company, is focusing on addressing Feline Chronic Gingivostomatitis (FCGS), a painful mouth condition in cats. If all goes well, Gallant anticipates FDA approval for this treatment by early 2026.
Initial studies have shown promising results, particularly in dogs suffering from arthritis. These dogs experienced improvements in pain levels and mobility, with some benefits lasting up to two years. However, when similar treatments were attempted for kidney disease in cats, the outcomes were more varied.
What sets Gallant apart is its emphasis on convenience. Unlike traditional stem cell therapies that require cell harvesting from either the patient or compatible donors, Gallant’s approach utilizes ready-to-use cells from donor animals, even if they belong to a different species.
The recent funding round, spearheaded by Digitalis Ventures and NovaQuest Capital Management, underscores the potential of Gallant’s approach. NovaQuest Capital Management has a track record of investing in the first FDA-approved human stem cell therapy.
Gallant’s journey is marked by an intriguing backstory. Founded by Aaron Hirschhorn, who previously sold DogVacay to industry giant Rover, the company is now under the leadership of Linda Black, its president and chief scientific officer. Despite Hirschhorn’s passing in 2021, Gallant has continued to thrive, raising a total of $44 million from investors.
