Competition: Investor Partnerships – Health Technologies, West Yorkshire: Round 2

Project Title: GLP In-Vivo Preclinical Safety and Pharmacokinetic Study of a Novel Dual-Drug Coated Balloon Formulation

Leeds, United Kingdom — Arterius, a leader in advanced cardiovascular drug-delivery technologies and bioresorbable scaffolds based in Leeds, today announced that it has been awarded a significant grant from the Innovate UK – Investor Partnerships Award to advance the Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) in-vivo preclinical study of its next-generation dual-drug coated balloon (DCB) formulation as the final stage before progress to first in human and then regulatory approval, developed to improve treatment outcomes for patients with vascular disease. The DCB is a special angioplasty balloon used during a minimally invasive heart or peripheral artery procedure that inflates to open a narrowed blood vessel, while simultaneously delivering a medicine directly to the artery wall.

This newly awarded grant will accelerate Arterius’ R&D programme, which focuses on creating an innovative formulation designed to enhance drug-transfer efficiency, optimise tissue uptake, and improve the durability of therapeutic effect, while maintaining the safety profile essential for interventional procedures. The project aims to address key limitations of current DCB technologies and support clinicians in delivering more predictable and long-lasting patient outcomes.

“We are grateful and honoured to receive this support from Innovate UK, our Investor Partner Deepbridge Capital LLP, and our other investors who have provided the matched funding. This grant award validates both our scientific approach and our commitment to improving vascular care,” said Dr. Kadem Al-Lamee, Chief Technical Officer and Founder. “This grant allows us to push the boundaries of drug-device innovation and bring forward a novel dual-drug formulation that could meaningfully enhance treatment options for patients.”

Dr Andrew Round, Deepbridge Capital “The team at Arterius have done an excellent job at closing this new funding round and securing Innovate UK funding. This award will provide crucial capital to allow the company to close this next study and take the company one step closer to a first in human study. We are super excited to see the progress 2026 brings and are privileged to be part of such an opportunity that could transfer the care of millions of patients.

Funding from the Innovate UK Award will be used to advance formulation chemistry, conduct GLP preclinical testing, and prepare the technology for subsequent clinical development. Arterius’ multidisciplinary team will collaborate with leading experts in biomaterials, pharmacology, and interventional medicine to accelerate progress.

“This award provides catalytic support for a technology we believe can set a new standard in drug-coated balloon performance,” added Barry Clare, Chair of the Board. “Our goal is to improve the consistency, durability, and efficiency of drug delivery where it matters most inside the vessel to improve patient outcomes.”

Arterius expects to achieve several key development milestones over the next 12–18 months, laying the foundation for regulatory submission and future clinical advancement of the DCB product.

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About Deepbridge Capital

Deepbridge Capital is an award-winning investment manager, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, specialising in tax-efficient and alternative investment opportunities. Established in 2010, Deepbridge provides access to innovative growth capital solutions through the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) and Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS), Business Relief (BR) estate planning services, and other bespoke propositions. Our focus spans technology growth, life sciences, and renewable energy sectors, alongside asset-backed strategies designed to deliver long-term value. Deepbridge combines sector expertise, rigorous due diligence, and a hands-on approach to support high-potential businesses throughout their growth journey. For more information, visit www.deepbridgecapital.com.