Mérieux Equity Partners Focuses on Cell and Gene Therapy Investments in Europe

What's Happening?

Mérieux Equity Partners (MxEP), a France-based private equity firm, is prioritizing investments in novel modalities such as cell and gene therapy (CGT) across Europe, including Lithuania. The firm announced the first closing of its Mérieux Innovation 2 (MI2) fund in April 2025, with a target size of €150 million ($175.1 million). The fund aims to accelerate patient access to transformative health products and services. MxEP plans to build a portfolio of around 15 companies, with initial investments ranging from €6 million ($7 million) to €15 million ($17.5 million) after follow-on investments. The firm has already invested in Spanish clinical diagnostics company deepull, contributing to its €50 million ($58.3 million) Series C funding round. MxEP is particularly interested in RNA therapeutics and CGT, and is also exploring complex small molecules. The Lithuanian life sciences ecosystem, home to over 400 companies, has embraced digitalization and developed strong bioproduction capabilities in genetic medicine, contributing to its maturation.

Why It's Important?

The focus on cell and gene therapy investments by Mérieux Equity Partners highlights the growing importance of these novel modalities in the healthcare sector. Such investments can lead to significant advancements in medical treatments, offering potential paradigm shifts for patients and physicians. The maturation of the Lithuanian life sciences ecosystem, with its strong bioproduction capabilities and digitalization, positions it as a promising hub for innovation in genetic medicine. This development could attract more investments and collaborations, boosting the region's economic growth and enhancing its global competitiveness in the life sciences industry. The success of these investments could also influence other private equity firms to explore similar opportunities, potentially accelerating the development and commercialization of groundbreaking therapies.

What's Next?

Mérieux Equity Partners plans to continue investing in companies that have demonstrated proof of concept, using its network and expertise to catalyze these investments into clinical trials or early growth phases. The firm is closely monitoring the market for complex small molecules and aims to understand strategic needs to ensure genuine market demand. As the Lithuanian life sciences ecosystem continues to mature, more companies may achieve commercial revenue, further validating the region's potential as a life sciences hub. The broader cell and gene therapy space is currently undergoing a correction, and MxEP's strategic investments could play a role in stabilizing and advancing the sector.

Beyond the Headlines

The emphasis on cell and gene therapy investments reflects a shift towards personalized medicine, which could lead to more effective and targeted treatments for various diseases. Ethical considerations, such as ensuring equitable access to these advanced therapies, will be crucial as the sector evolves. The integration of digitalization and bioproduction capabilities in Lithuania may serve as a model for other regions seeking to enhance their life sciences infrastructure. Additionally, the focus on RNA therapeutics and complex small molecules could drive innovation in drug development, potentially leading to new treatment options for patients worldwide.