Myriagon is developing a completely novel class of analgesics to help patients suffering from neuropathic pain, in particular chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain — a debilitating and often dose-limiting side effect of cancer treatment. Current off-label therapies have limited effect and frequently cause sedation, tolerance, or dependence. Myriagon’s first-in-class peripherally restricted MAGL inhibitors show strong pain-reducing effects in preclinical models without affecting the central nervous system.
The jury — comprised of Carine van den Brink (Axon Lawyers), Geert-Jan Mulder (Forbion), Thom Frielink (Curie Capital), Eric van der Aa (Pivot Park) and Bert-Jan Haijema (3DPharmXchange) — was highly impressed by Myriagon’s work.
They praised the team’s strong scientific rationale, clear understanding of clinical need, and compelling pitch. The jury also highlighted the team’s long-term vision and the significant unmet need they are addressing, with millions of patients worldwide affected by neuropathic pain with limited effective treatment options.
Myriagon is led by Mirjam Huizenga and Wouter Driever, who are developing next-generation pain therapeutics designed to be more effective and safer than existing treatments. Their approach aims to radically improve the quality of life for patients living with neuropathic pain.
Red biotechnology, including innovative medicines and therapies, vaccines, personalised diagnostics and advanced treatments, has the potential to become a cornerstone of the...
December 8, 2025, The share of female professors is increasing, but the growth remains limited. With 34.2%, Leiden University ranks in the national top three, according to the...
Leiden, December 6, 2025, 12:15 PM – by Robbert Beurse - Every day, around 70,000 people in the Netherlands experience a migraine attack. The condition ranks among the five most...