Metagenomi is harnessing the power of metagenomics in the discovery + development of novel genome editing tools. The Company’s comprehensive genome editing toolbox includes programmable nucleases, base editors, as well as RNA and DNA-mediated integration systems with the potential to make desired therapeutic gene edits anywhere in the human genome, from which the biotech is developing potentially curative therapeutics.
EXECUTIVE BUILD
Eric Huang, Moderna’s Chief Scientific Officer of Genomics stepped onto Metagenomi’s SAB and ultimately played a pivotal role in the Company’s partnership trajectory. LEAD subsequently placed Metagenomi’s Chief Operating Officer, Jian Irish (former SVP and Global Head Manufacturing at Kite Pharma) and Chief Investment Officer, Simon Harnest (former Chief Investment Officer at Cellectis).
THE CHALLENGE
Our team started working with Metagenomi in pre-Series A, even before the biotech launched a website! We led multiple C-level engagements for CEO Brian Thomas, starting with a Chief Scientific Officer for which we were tasked with identifying a recognized technical leader to advance Metagenomi’s CRISPR based technologies from platform to therapeutic candidate(s).
THE SOLUTION
In our earliest approaches, many candidates were first hearing of Metagenomi from our team. From past engagements in CGT and RNA-mediated settings, we leveraged an established network of CSO-level executives into a robust candidate pipeline. As critically, our team conveyed a compelling scientific narrative that captured Metagenomi’s novel platform approach of curating + translating novel programmable nucleases into next-generation genome editing systems.
IMPACT
In November 2021, Moderna announced its first gene-editing collaboration with Metagenomi in which Eric Huang was instrumental. Simon Harnest played an integral role in Metagenomi’s oversubscribed $175 million Series B financing, announced in January 2023, with proceeds supporting the company’s lead in vivo and ex vivo gene editing therapeutic programs.