Meet the Start-ups

Kevin Hollevoet | Entrepreneur in Residence | Hemastatx

Kevin is a seasoned venture builder and operator, pasionate about advancing therapeutic innovations in academia and early-stage biotech. In his role as Entrepreneur in Residence at KU Leuven, he is dedicated to realizing the mission of Hemastatx.

After completing his PhD at Ghent University and a postdoc at the US National Cancer Institute, Kevin built and directed a DNA-based antibody platform at KU Leuven. Transitioning from academia to industry in 2018, Kevin has since worked extensively with academic institutes, investors, a venture studio, and biotech companies worldwide to unleash transformative science. He employs a science- and strategy-driven mindset, and leverages his global network to enable impactful collaborations.

Hemastatx

Hemastatx, a spinoff from KU Leuven, aims to redefine the standard of care for patients suffering from von Willebrand factor (VWF) disorders. Our mission centers around the development of a first-in-class ADAMTS13 antibody therapy.

Individuals with VWF disorders, whether acquired or congenital, face frequent bleeding risks and life-threatening situations, which are inadequately managed by existing treatment approaches. To address this unmet medical need, the team of Prof. Karen Vanhoorelbeke, including Dr. Shannen Deconinck and Dr. Nick Geukens, has generated an ADAMTS13 monoclonal antibody (mAb) that directly targets the underlying pathophysiology of VWF disorders. We have built a robust IP portfolio and preclinical package, showcasing the potential of our mAb to restore normal hemostasis and address bleeding. Currently, we focus on securing financing to incorporate the company and advance our lead candidate towards the IND/CTA-ready stage.