In the press
IpiNovyx Bio Awarded NIH Catalyze Award to Advance Novel Proteasome Therapeutic for Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease
Funding to Support Preclinical Development of First-in-Class Inhaled Therapy Targeting Lung Inflammation and Fibrosis
Cincinnati, OH, May 11, 2026 — IpiNovyx Bio, a biotechnology company developing best-in-class proteasome modulating therapeutics, and launched by Orange Grove Bio, today announced it has been selected to receive support from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute’s (NHLBI) Catalyze Program at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The award will fund key preclinical studies to advance IpiNovyx’s novel inhaled proteasome-targeting therapeutic for systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD). The Catalyze program award will provide preclinical services, including API manufacturing, inhalation formulation development, and aerosol pharmacokinetic and toxicology studies, enabling IpiNovyx to advance its lead candidate toward an investigational new drug (IND) application.
Systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease is a rare, progressive autoimmune condition characterized by inflammation and fibrosis in the lungs, leading to impaired respiratory function and high morbidity. Current therapies are limited and often associated with significant side effects, leaving patients in need of safer and more effective options. IpiNovyx’s proprietary platform enables the design of highly selective, reversible proteasome inhibitors that modulate disease-driving immune cell types while minimizing off-target effects. Delivering the therapy directly to the lung may further enhance safety and efficacy. “This recognition from the NIH underscores the therapeutic potential of our approach and represents an important milestone in our mission to deliver innovative, first-in-class therapies for patients suffering from autoimmune and inflammatory diseases,” said Michael Kalos, CEO of IpiNovyx Bio and Senior Venture Partner of Orange Grove Bio.
About IpiNovyx Bio
IpiNovyx Bio is a biotechnology company focused on novel therapeutics to treat autoimmune and inflammatory diseases through selective inhibition of the proteasome and immunoproteasome. With applications across a range of immune-mediated and fibrotic diseases, IpiNovyx’s proprietary platform enables the development of highly selective, reversible, and non-toxic small molecule inhibitors designed to transform patient care.
For more information, please visit: www.ipinovyx.com
About Orange Grove Bio
Orange Grove Bio is an integrated biopharmaceutical company dedicated to investing in groundbreaking technologies and developing therapies to profoundly improve patient lives. Founded in 2019 to bridge regional and structural gaps in venture capital funding, our leadership team combines seasoned pharma executives, healthcare investment and operational experts who actively participate in guiding growth-stage companies to success. Currently, the platform has five (5) active portfolio companies, launched seven (7) and, reviewed over 1,500 academic programs throughout its history to date.
For more information, please visit: www.orangegrovebio.com
