Metagen Therapeutics Raises ¥190 Million in Series B Extension
Metagen Therapeutics, a company based in Tsuruoka, Yamagata Prefecture, Japan, has successfully raised ¥190 million in its Series B extension round. The funding comes from 15th Rock (Hokkaido University Green Frontier Fund No.1 Investment Limited Partnership) and Central Japan Innovation Capital (Tokai Research and Development No.1 Investment Limited Partnership). The company specializes in developing therapies using gut microbiota, focusing on conditions such as ulcerative colitis.
Leadership and Vision
Taku Nakahara, Co-founder and CEO of Metagen Therapeutics, has been at the forefront of the company's efforts to harness the potential of gut microbiota in medical treatments. The company is advancing its research in fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), a method that involves the transfer of gut bacteria from healthy individuals to patients to restore balance in their gut microbiota.
Strategic Use of Funds
The newly raised capital will be directed towards several key initiatives. A significant portion will be used for the clinical development of an oral FMT drug, "MGT-006," which targets ulcerative colitis. This drug has already entered Phase 1/Phase 2 clinical trials in Japan and the United States as of May 2026. Additionally, Metagen Therapeutics plans to develop FMT medical technology aimed at treating gastrointestinal cancer and Parkinson’s disease.
To support these developments, the company is enhancing its infrastructure for stool donation and investigational drug manufacturing, particularly through the "Tsuruoka Stool Donation Room" in Tsuruoka City. Collaborations with Hokkaido University and Nagoya University will also be deepened to further clinical advancements.
Future Developments
Metagen Therapeutics is poised to make significant strides in the treatment of gastrointestinal and neurological disorders through its innovative use of gut microbiota. The company's commitment to developing practical applications for its research could lead to new treatment options for patients worldwide.