Avexxin AS is betting that the novel molecular target identified by one of its co-founders will enable development of a drug capable of treating inflammatory skin diseases like psoriasis and perhaps, ultimately, more severe conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Its small molecule candidate is designed to block the intracellular enzyme group GIVαPLA2 to shut down the cytokine-mediated cascade that leads to production of the pro-inflammatory transcription factor nuclear factor-κB and eventually to the production of a better-known bad actor: tumor necrosis factor alpha.

Biologics for psoriasis leapfrogged existing treatments in the last decade, greatly improving the standard of care. Although those may still see incremental improvements, the real changes for patient care may come with the introduction of new oral and topical treatments. START-UP profiles four emerging companies that are tackling this challenge: Avexxin, Cellceutix, Creabilis, and Convoy Therapeutics.

This Month's Profile Group: New Orals, Better Topicals Top Psoriasis Wish List, features profiles of Avexxin, Cellceutix, Convoy Therapeutics, and Creabilis. Plus these Start-Ups Across Health Care: Domain Surgical, Ornim, Protagonist Therapeutics, SpineGuard, and Xcovery.

START-UP's monthly comprehensive review of emerging life science companies that have received venture funding during the month, including companies within the in vitro diagnostics, pharmaceuticals, research/analytical equipment & supplies, and medical device sectors.