UK Biotech NRG Therapeutics Secures £50 Million for Neurodegenerative Disease Drug Development

British biotechnology company NRG Therapeutics has successfully raised £50 million (approximately $67 million) in a Series B funding round to advance its innovative approach to treating neurodegenerative disorders. The company's lead experimental medicine, targeting mitochondrial dysfunction in conditions such as Parkinson's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), is now set to enter clinical testing by early 2026.

Mitochondrial Targeting: A New Frontier in Neuroscience

NRG Therapeutics is developing oral drugs designed to block a specific protein complex inside mitochondria, known as mPTP (mitochondrial permeability transition pore). By inhibiting this complex, the company aims to protect mitochondria from toxic proteins that lead to cell death in neurodegenerative conditions. Preclinical testing of their most advanced drug candidate, NRG-5051, has shown promise in reducing brain inflammation, potentially offering a new treatment avenue for Parkinson's and ALS patients.

The focus on mitochondria as a therapeutic target represents a growing trend in neuroscience drug development. Other companies, such as Mitokinin (acquired by AbbVie in 2023) and Pretzel Therapeutics, have also been exploring mitochondrial-based approaches to treat brain diseases and rare mitochondrial disorders.

Investment Landscape and Industry Partnerships

The Series B funding round saw participation from seven venture firms, including SV Health Investors' Dementia Discovery Fund, which led the financing, as well as Omega Funds and the venture arms of pharmaceutical giants Merck KGaA and Novartis. This investment follows NRG's previous £16 million Series A round in 2022, led by Omega Funds.

Neil Miller, NRG's CEO and co-founder, highlighted the improving understanding of mitochondrial drug targets and the renewed interest in neuroscience among large pharmaceutical companies as key factors driving investment in this field. The company is actively seeking pharmaceutical partners to support the development and commercialization of its therapies.

From Concept to Clinical Trials

Founded in 2018 by Neil Miller, Richard Rutter, and Grant Hawthorne, NRG Therapeutics has overcome initial skepticism to emerge as a promising player in the neurodegenerative disease space. The company's survival and growth have been supported by grants and investments from specialized funds such as Parkinson's UK and the Michael J. Fox Foundation.

With the new funding secured, NRG Therapeutics aims to bring its lead therapy, NRG-5051, into clinical trials by early 2026. This milestone represents a significant step forward in the company's mission to develop novel treatments for devastating neurological conditions.