Jazz Actio Acquisition Leads to Setara Biosciences Launch

Jazz Pharmaceuticals’ acquisition of Actio Biosciences has led to the launch of Setara Biosciences, according to Fierce Biotech. Jazz acquired Actio to gain the epilepsy drug candidate ABS-1230, while Setara is advancing programs remaining from Actio’s pipeline.

Fierce Biotech reports that Setara launched with series A financing. Investors included Deerfield Management, Canaan, Droia Ventures, EcoR1, Euclidean Capital, Regeneron Ventures and Jazz, which became a shareholder through the Actio acquisition.

Programs move to Setara

Setara’s lead program is STAR-0871, formerly known as ABS-0871. Fierce Biotech reported that the small-molecule TRPV4 inhibitor is being developed for Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2C and overactive bladder.

The company has completed the healthy-volunteer portion of a phase 1 trial of STAR-0871, which Actio began in March 2025. Setara plans to advance the candidate into a phase 1b trial in patients with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2C in 2027 and to launch a phase 2a study in patients with overactive bladder.

According to Fierce Biotech, STAR-0871 is designed to inhibit excessive activation of the TRPV4 ion channel caused by gain-of-function mutations in the TRPV4 gene. The program has FDA rare pediatric disease, orphan drug and fast track designations.

Leadership continues from Actio

Several Actio leaders have moved to Setara. David Goldstein, previously Actio’s co-founder and chief executive officer, is Setara’s co-founder, president and executive chair. Actio co-founder and chief scientific officer David Breckenridge continues as Setara’s chief scientific officer.

Fierce Biotech also identified early-stage discovery programs at Setara focused on genetic epilepsies, migraine and other indications. The launch places Actio’s remaining pipeline within a new company after Jazz’s acquisition.