The Development Bank of Japan (DBJ) is investing in 4Bio Capital, a UK-based venture fund specializing in advanced treatments like cell and gene therapies. DBJ hopes to expand its global investment portfolio while also backing home-grown firms. The fund aims to raise $200m to $300m for its third fund, which will focus on supporting early-stage biotech companies. The move by DBJ reflects a desire to tap into the potential of the UK’s life sciences sector, as well as a belief in the opportunity to bridge the gap between public markets and private life sciences investments. DBJ and 4Bio both see this as a chance to support innovation and contribute to the revitalization of Japan’s life science ecosystem.
4Bio Capital has already begun investing from its third fund, providing support for ventures such as University College London spin-out ViaNautis, which focuses on genetic therapies for lung and nervous system diseases.
