Milan‑based AAVantgarde closed a $141 million Series B round led in part by Amgen Ventures to advance gene therapies targeting inherited retinal diseases. The financing will support two lead programs and expand manufacturing and translational work aimed at moving candidates toward the clinic. Company statements and investor materials indicate the capital will be used for IND‑enabling studies, vector optimization, and regulatory engagement in multiple territories. The round reflects sustained investor appetite for ocular AAV programs, where localized delivery, established surgical routes, and defined endpoints can de‑risk early development relative to systemic gene therapies. For the field, the raise underlines continued strategic interest from major pharma and venture arms in rare ophthalmology assets with clear clinical pathways and potential for premium pricing.