METiS Lands RMB 400 Million Series D to Fuel Biopharma Growth in Beijing

Beijing’s Life Sciences Sector Gets a Boost with Launch of OpenCGT Platform

BEIJING, CHINA – A new platform designed to accelerate the progress and clinical translation of next-generation cell and gene therapies (CGT) has launched in Beijing, poised to become a significant driver of growth for the city’s burgeoning life sciences industry. The OpenCGT platform, spearheaded by TechBio innovator METiS Technologies, aims to tackle key challenges in precision nanodelivery, reduce costs, and streamline the path from research to patient care.

METiS is leveraging its proprietary artificial intelligence (AI) nanodelivery technology to bridge the critical gap between foundational academic research – conducted at leading institutions and hospitals – and the practical application of these discoveries by biotech firms. The platform’s first project will focus on enabling AccurEdit therapeutics to develop a targeted CRISPR gene-editing therapy for liver diseases,utilizing mRNA-LNP delivery.

This collaboration marks a significant step forward for AccurEdit, a pioneering biotech company already making waves in the Chinese gene editing landscape. In October 2023, AccurEdit achieved a landmark milestone, becoming the first and only company in China to demonstrate both the safety and efficacy of systemic CRISPR gene editing in human trials.

“OpenCGT is designed to unlock the full potential of CGT therapies by addressing the complex delivery challenges that have historically hindered their progress,” explains METiS Technologies. “Our AI-driven platforms allow for the rational design and optimization of nanomaterials, paving the way for more effective and targeted treatments.”

METiS’ core technologies – AiLNP for nucleic acid delivery system design, ANNA for mRNA sequence optimization, and Aitem for small molecule formulation design – utilize advanced simulations and predictive modeling to optimize nanoscale interactions. This approach promises to accelerate the development of therapies for a wide range of diseases, including cancer, metabolic disorders, autoimmune conditions, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Evergreen Insights: The Future of Nanodelivery & CGT

The launch of OpenCGT underscores a global trend: the increasing reliance on AI and nanotechnology to revolutionize drug delivery. Traditional drug delivery methods frequently enough struggle with issues like poor bioavailability, off-target effects, and limited penetration into tissues. nanoparticles, engineered at the nanoscale, offer a solution by enhancing drug solubility, protecting therapeutic payloads, and enabling targeted delivery to specific cells and tissues.

Though, designing effective nanodelivery systems is a complex undertaking. This is where AI comes into play. AI algorithms can analyze vast datasets of molecular interactions, predict the behavior of nanoparticles in vivo, and optimize their design for maximum efficacy and safety.

The success of OpenCGT and similar initiatives will depend on several factors, including continued investment in AI infrastructure, the development of robust regulatory frameworks for nanomedicines, and fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and clinical partners. As the field matures, we can expect to see a growing number of AI-driven nanodelivery platforms emerge, transforming the landscape of precision medicine and offering hope for patients with previously untreatable diseases. The advancements coming out of China, exemplified by AccurEdit’s progress and METiS’ innovation, are positioning the nation as a key player in this rapidly evolving field.

What specific advanced manufacturing technologies will METiS invest in to optimize efficiency and ensure regulatory compliance?

Expanding Capabilities in cell & Gene Therapy Manufacturing

METiS, a leading provider of biopharmaceutical manufacturing solutions, has secured RMB 400 million (approximately $55.6 million USD) in a Series D funding round. This critically important investment,announced today,August 5th,2025,will be instrumental in expanding the company’s capabilities and footprint within the rapidly growing Chinese biopharma market,particularly in Beijing. The funding round positions METiS to capitalize on the increasing demand for advanced cell and gene therapy (CGT) manufacturing services.

Key Investors and Funding Details

While specific investor details remain partially undisclosed, sources indicate participation from prominent venture capital firms specializing in healthcare and life sciences. This Series D round follows previous funding successes, demonstrating consistent investor confidence in METiS’s business model and technological advancements.

Funding Amount: RMB 400 million ($55.6 million USD approx.)

Focus: Expansion of manufacturing capacity,R&D,and talent acquisition.

Geographic Focus: Primarily Beijing, with potential expansion to other key biopharma hubs in China.

Strategic Implications: Solidifies METiS’s position as a key CDMO (Contract Progress and Manufacturing Organization) in the region.

Driving Force: the Booming Biopharma Sector in China

China’s biopharmaceutical industry is experiencing exponential growth, fueled by government support, increasing healthcare spending, and a rising prevalence of chronic diseases.Specifically, the cell and gene therapy sector is witnessing unprecedented investment and innovation. This surge in activity creates a critical need for robust and scalable manufacturing solutions – a gap METiS is strategically positioned to fill. The demand for CGT is driven by breakthroughs in treating previously incurable diseases like cancer, genetic disorders, and autoimmune conditions.

METiS’s Core Competencies & Service Offerings

METiS specializes in providing integrated solutions for biopharmaceutical manufacturing,encompassing process development,clinical trial material production,and commercial-scale manufacturing. Their expertise spans a range of modalities, including:

Cell Therapy: Focusing on autologous and allogeneic cell therapies, including CAR-T cell therapies.

Gene Therapy: Offering viral vector manufacturing (AAV, lentivirus) and plasmid DNA production.

Biologics Manufacturing: Providing services for monoclonal antibodies, recombinant proteins, and other complex biologics.

Fill & Finish: Sterile fill-finish capabilities for various dosage forms.

Impact of the Funding: Expansion Plans & technological Advancements

The RMB 400 million investment will be allocated across several key areas to accelerate METiS’s growth trajectory:

1. Capacity Expansion: Significant investment in expanding existing manufacturing facilities in Beijing and possibly establishing new sites to meet growing client demand. This includes increasing bioreactor capacity and adding advanced automation technologies.
2. R&D Investment: Dedicated funding for research and development initiatives focused on improving manufacturing processes,reducing costs,and enhancing product quality. This will likely include exploring continuous manufacturing techniques and novel purification methods.
3. talent Acquisition: Recruiting highly skilled scientists, engineers, and manufacturing professionals to support the company’s expansion and innovation efforts.A focus on attracting talent with expertise in CGT manufacturing is anticipated.
4. Technology Platform Enhancement: Investing in cutting-edge technologies, such as single-use bioreactors, advanced process analytical technology (PAT), and digital manufacturing solutions, to optimize manufacturing efficiency and ensure regulatory compliance.

METiS and the Competitive Landscape

The CDMO market in China is becoming increasingly competitive, with both domestic and international players vying for market share. Key competitors include WuXi AppTec, lonza, and Catalent. However, METiS differentiates itself through its specialized focus on cell and gene therapy, its strong local presence in China, and its commitment to providing customized solutions tailored to the specific needs of its clients. The company’s early adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies also