Stevenage-based biotech startup NRG Therapeutics has raised a significant £50 million in a Series B funding round. This funding marks a significant step forward in their pursuit of developing treatments for neurodegenerative diseases driven by mitochondrial dysfunction. Clinical trials are on the horizon as they prepare to bring their research from pre-clinical studies into a more advanced clinical stage.
The venture’s past is marked by a concerted effort to innovate in the field of neurodegenerative diseases, with a strong focus on targeting mitochondrial pathways. Earlier financial backing allowed NRG Therapeutics to develop its technology and gather the pre-clinical data necessary for upcoming trials. Previous investments from notable entities like the British Business Bank and Omega Funds set the stage for this ambitious series B round.
Why Are Investors Backing NRG Therapeutics?
NRG Therapeutics has successfully drawn interest from a diverse group of investors, including the British Business Bank and notable players such as M Ventures and Novartis Venture Fund. The company is set on addressing the challenges of neurodegenerative diseases with its pipeline featuring small molecule inhibitors targeting the mitochondrial permeability transition pore, which plays a role in neuronal cell death and inflammation.
What Are the Next Steps for NRG Therapeutics?
Following the new infusion of funds, NRG is gearing up to enter the clinical proof-of-concept phase, with a primary focus on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Parkinson’s disease. NRG5051, the company’s lead candidate, has demonstrated encouraging neuroprotective effects in pre-clinical models, showing promise in managing ALS and Parkinson’s disease.
“The pathological proteins in Parkinson’s and ALS/MND are toxic to mitochondria and contribute to mitochondrial dysfunction,” NRG Therapeutics explains. Such pathologies highlight the need for innovative therapies targeting these mechanisms. Despite setbacks common in the field of neurodegenerative diseases, the urgency for treatments in an aging population drives both scientifically and commercially viable endeavors.
The participation of investors like SV Health Investors’ Dementia Discovery Fund signals confidence in NRG’s approach and the potential impact of their treatments. The company’s focus is not merely on developing their current pipeline but also on expanding it to consider other indications, tapping into a broad therapeutic market.
“Developing new drugs to treat neurological diseases is very challenging but is receiving increased interest,” said Dr. Neil Miller, co-founder and CEO of NRG Therapeutics. This interest, combined with a solid financial foundation, positions NRG favorably to pursue breakthroughs in neurological treatment options.
The biotech industry, particularly in the realm of neurodegenerative diseases, presents high risks but also potential for high rewards. NRG Therapeutics stands on the cusp of significant milestones as it navigates this complex landscape. It remains a field that commands attention due to its implications for public health and vast unmet needs in patient care.
