Bicara Therapeutics (NASDAQ:BCAX), Inc. (NASDAQ: BCAX) is a clinical‐stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery and development of targeted small-molecule therapies for chronic pain and respiratory disorders. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in South San Francisco, California, Bicara leverages expertise in ion channel biology to address high-unmet medical needs where conventional approaches have fallen short. The company’s research platform centers on modulating specific receptors implicated in pain signaling and cough reflex pathways, with the goal of delivering differentiated candidates that offer improved efficacy and safety profiles.
The company’s lead product is a peripherally restricted TRPA1 antagonist designed to relieve chronic osteoarthritis pain without central nervous system side effects. This candidate has advanced into late-stage preclinical studies and is nearing entry into Phase 1 trials. In parallel, Bicara is developing a selective TRPV1 antagonist for the treatment of chronic refractory cough, which has demonstrated robust activity in animal models. Beyond these programs, the company maintains a pipeline of discovery-stage molecules targeting additional ion channel subtypes, positioning it to expand into related pain and inflammatory conditions.
Bicara’s technology emerged from a strategic collaboration between academic research groups and industry partners, and the company continues to engage with leading contract research organizations across North America and Europe. This global footprint supports Bicara’s commitment to efficient development and regulatory engagement. Since its inception, the company has attracted funding from both public and private investors, enabling rapid advancement of its clinical candidates.
Leadership at Bicara Therapeutics is headed by Chief Executive Officer Dr. Carsten Brunn, who brings over two decades of experience in neuropharmacology and biotech management. Supported by Chief Scientific Officer Dr. Sarah Young and Chief Financial Officer Michael Chen, the executive team combines deep drug-development know-how with successful track records in commercial launches. Together with a Board of Directors comprised of veteran pharmaceutical executives, the team is dedicated to translating Bicara’s innovative science into new therapeutic options for patients.
