Icosphere Secures Pre-Seed Investment
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Ryan
Date Published
Icosphere Biosciences Secures Investment from Mercia Ventures to Advance the Delivery of Long DNA Sequences for Genetic Disease
Oxford, UK – 14th October 2024 — Icosphere Biosciences, a biotechnology company pioneering next-generation systems for delivering long DNA sequences for genetic disorders, today announced it has raised pre-seed investment from Mercia Ventures to accelerate the development of its proprietary high-capacity virus-like particle (VLP) production platform.
The funding will support Icosphere’s mission to transform the scalability and efficiency of gene delivery in instances where the DNA length is beyond the capabilities of existing approaches, addressing one of the major bottlenecks in advanced genetic medicines. By leveraging novel bioprocessing technologies, Icosphere is developing a new class of manufacturing solutions capable of producing high-yield, high-quality VLP vectors—critical components used to deliver therapeutic genes to patients with rare and chronic diseases.
“We are thrilled to have the backing of Mercia Ventures as we take this next step in our development journey,” said Dr. Ryan Cawood, CEO of Icosphere Biosciences. “This investment not only validates our approach but also enables us to further validate the technology and bring it closer to clinical and commercial use. Improving how gene delivery vectors are manufactured is essential if these powerful treatments are to reach more patients around the world.”
Gene delivery holds immense promise for treating a wide range of genetic and acquired conditions, but delivering longer DNA sequences remains challenging. Conditions such as Duchenne's Muscular Dystrophy and Stargardts Disease, or the delivery of multiple genes at once (e,g. for CRISPR gene editing technologies) cannot be achieved with existing approaches. Icosphere’s platform aims to overcome these challenges by increasing vector payload capacity and improving production efficiency without compromising safety or efficacy.
Mercia Ventures, a leading UK-based venture capital firm, brings deep expertise in life sciences investment and a strong track record of supporting high-growth biotech companies from early stage through to exit.
“Manufacturing remains one of the biggest obstacles to the widespread adoption of gene therapy vectors,” said Dr. Rob Hornby, Investment Director at Mercia Ventures. “Icosphere’s innovative approach addresses a critical unmet need in the sector. We’re excited to support their journey and help accelerate the delivery of more accessible and effective genetic medicines.”
The new funding will be used to expand Icosphere’s R&D team and validate its manufacturing technology.
About Icosphere Biosciences
Founded in Oxford, UK, Icosphere Biosciences is a biotechnology company focused on developing scalable manufacturing platforms for high-capacity gene therapy vectors. Its proprietary technologies aim to enable broader access to advanced genetic treatments by solving core production challenges.
About Mercia Ventures
Mercia Ventures is a UK-based venture capital firm investing in innovative, high-growth businesses across life sciences, deep tech, and digital sectors. Part of Mercia Asset Management PLC, the firm supports companies with capital, expertise, and a national network.