EIB Provides €20M to Protembis for Innovative Brain Protection Device in Heart Treatments

The EIB agreement with Protembis is backed by the InvestEU programme, which aims to drive over €372 billion in additional investments in new technologies by 2027.

The European Investment Bank (EIB) has committed €20 million in venture-debt financing to German medical-technology company Protembis to support the development of its next-generation cerebral embolic protection system, ProtEmbo. This funding aims to advance clinical trials, research, and market access for this novel device designed to safeguard patients undergoing certain heart procedures.

ProtEmbo Device:

ProtEmbo is a filter device designed to protect the brain from embolic material during left-sided heart procedures such as transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). It works by deflecting potentially harmful debris away from the brain's arteries, thus reducing the risks of stroke and cognitive decline.

Clinical Trials and Development:

The EIB’s €20 million funding will support Protembis in conducting clinical trials, research, and development of ProtEmbo. This includes the advancement of a pivotal FDA-approved Investigational Device Exemption study known as the ProtEmbo trial. Scheduled to enroll between 250 and 500 patients undergoing TAVR in Europe and the US, the trial aims to demonstrate ProtEmbo's effectiveness compared to existing solutions.

InvestEU Programme Support:

The EIB agreement with Protembis is backed by the InvestEU programme, which aims to drive over €372 billion in additional investments in new technologies by 2027. This partnership aligns with InvestEU’s goals of promoting research, development, and innovation within Europe.

Protembis Leadership:

Protembis Co-CEOs Karl von Mangoldt and Conrad Rasmus expressed gratitude towards the EIB for their support, acknowledging the hard work and dedication of their team and investors. The €20 million financing follows Protembis’ successful completion of a €30 million Series B financing round in March 2024, which will help propel their research and development efforts.

Procedure and Device Functionality:

TAVR is a minimally invasive procedure used to replace a narrowed aortic valve. Despite its advantages, TAVR carries risks, including the potential for debris dislodgement that can lead to cerebral embolic events. ProtEmbo is inserted via the left wrist artery and lines the aortic arch, serving as a barrier to protect the brain from this debris.

Market and Impact:

With an estimated 430,000 patients expected to undergo TAVR globally by 2025, ProtEmbo's innovative approach addresses a significant need for effective cerebral protection. The device aims to mitigate risks associated with TAVR and enhance patient outcomes.

The EIB’s investment in Protembis underscores its commitment to advancing medical technology and improving patient care. By supporting the development of ProtEmbo, the EIB is fostering innovation that aims to reduce complications in heart procedures and contribute to better health outcomes for patients worldwide. This initiative highlights the critical role of financial backing in driving forward medical advancements and ensuring the availability of cutting-edge treatments.