Rege Nephro Co., Ltd. has announced the successful completion of a Series B funding round, securing 22.5 billion yen (approximately $150 million USD) to accelerate the development of its kidney disease therapies. The funding will primarily support the clinical advancement of RN-014 for Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD) and the preclinical development of RN-032 for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).
The Series B round attracted a diverse group of investors, including DCI Partners Co., Ltd. as the lead investor, JIC Venture Growth Investments Co., Ltd., and Kyoto University Innovation Capital Co., Ltd., among others. This investment brings Rege Nephro's total funding to 44 billion yen, demonstrating strong confidence in the company's iPSC-based technology and its potential to deliver innovative treatments for kidney, liver, and pancreas diseases.
Advancing RN-014 for ADPKD
RN-014, also known as tamibarotene, is a retinoic acid receptor (RAR) agonist currently in Phase II clinical trials for ADPKD. ADPKD is a genetic disorder characterized by the growth of numerous cysts in the kidneys, leading to impaired renal function and eventual kidney failure. Tamibarotene is expected to inhibit cyst formation and improve renal function by modulating RAR activity. The Phase II trial, which began in December 2023, includes pharmacokinetic (PK) and randomization phases with safety measures in place, such as phased patient enrollment and independent safety monitoring.
Developing RN-032 for CKD
In addition to RN-014, Rege Nephro is also advancing RN-032, a cell therapy for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). CKD is a progressive condition characterized by a gradual loss of kidney function, affecting millions worldwide. RN-032 utilizes nephron progenitor cells (NPCs), which are cells that give rise to nephrons, the functional units of the kidney. Rege Nephro is implanting iNPCs (NPCs induced from allogeneic human iPSCs) into damaged kidneys, with preclinical studies in mice showing improvements in renal function.
iPSC-Based Technology
Rege Nephro leverages induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-based technology from the Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University. This technology allows the company to develop novel therapeutics and cell therapies for a range of diseases, including kidney, liver, and pancreas disorders. The successful Series B funding will enable Rege Nephro to further explore the potential of iPSC-based approaches to address unmet medical needs in these areas.
