Mironid Raises $46 Million to Develop a New Treatment for an Inherited Kidney Disease

Scottish biotechnology company Mironid has raised $46 million in funding to develop a new treatment for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD).

The funding round was supported by Roche Venture Fund, Sofinnova Partners, the Scottish National Investment Bank, Epidarex Capital and BioGeneration Ventures.

The new investment will allow Mironid to continue developing its drug candidate and move it closer to clinical trials, where the treatment will be tested in humans for the first time.

What is ADPKD?

ADPKD is an inherited kidney disease that affects around 12.4 million people worldwide.

People with ADPKD develop many fluid-filled cysts in their kidneys. Over time, these cysts can grow and damage kidney function. In severe cases, the disease can lead to kidney failure.

One of the main treatments currently available for ADPKD is Jynarque (tolvaptan). However, the medicine can cause side effects such as excessive thirst, frequent urination and, in some cases, serious liver problems.

What is Mironid developing?

Mironid’s new drug is designed to target a biological process that plays an important role in the development of kidney cysts.

In simple terms, the company hopes that the treatment will reduce the formation of new cysts and slow the growth of existing ones.

Early studies have shown that the drug may reduce the number of cysts and kidney size. Preliminary results have also indicated a favourable safety profile.

The next major step is to begin clinical studies in humans.

The $46 million investment will help Mironid continue its research and move its potential new treatment closer to clinical development and the first clinical results.