Tortugas Neuroscience announced its launch with $106 million in combined Seed and Series A financing to advance a clinical-stage pipeline targeting major neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders.
The financing was led by Cure Ventures, which initiated the Seed round and co-led the Series A alongside The Column Group and AN Venture Partners. The capital will support research and development efforts, including advancing two lead programs through Phase 2 clinical trials.
Tortugas is focused on developing novel therapies for central nervous system conditions with significant unmet need, including schizophrenia, tinnitus, focal epilepsy, and reversible encephalopathies. Its pipeline consists of small-molecule new chemical entities designed with derisked mechanisms of action and potential for differentiated clinical outcomes, including once-daily oral formulations and broader indication expansion.
The company has in-licensed its programs from Eisai Co., Ltd. and Jiangsu Hansoh Pharmaceutical Group, positioning its pipeline on assets with existing clinical validation and clearer regulatory pathways.
Tortugas is led by CEO Jeff Jonas, M.D., and President and Head of Research and Development Al Robichaud, Ph.D., both experienced drug developers and former executives at Sage Therapeutics. The leadership team is focused on building a portfolio of therapies that can deliver meaningful improvements in patient outcomes while progressing efficiently through clinical development.
The launch reflects continued investor interest in neuroscience innovation, particularly in areas where advancements in biology and drug development are creating new opportunities to address historically challenging diseases.
KEY QUOTES:
“I am confident that with our team’s demonstrated drug development capabilities, we will deliver on our promise to patients in need.”
“We believe each of our programs are well-positioned for differentiation in the marketplace. Tortugas curated its pipeline for innovative therapeutics that have high potential for clinical differentiation and of reaching their target patient markets. I am confident that with our team’s demonstrated drug development capabilities, we will deliver on our promise to patients in need.”
Jeff Jonas, M.D., CEO, Tortugas Neuroscience
“We are driven to improve treatment options for patients suffering with CNS disorders. The unmet patient need is indeed immense and we are deeply appreciative of this financial support to help us achieve our goals.”
Al Robichaud, Ph.D., President And Head Of Research And Development, Tortugas Neuroscience
