Takeda takes stake in USA-based Fate Therapeutics to expand in regenerative medicines

Japan’s largest drugmaker Takeda Pharmaceutical (TSE: 4502) has made an equity investment in privately-held Fate Therapeutics, via its Takeda Ventures investment arm. Neither the financial terms of the deal nor the size of the holding were not disclosed.

Takeda says the investment is consistent with its stated intention to develop a stronger foundation in regenerative medicines. Fate Therapeutics is developing innovative products based on the modulation of stem cell pathways. The lead Stem Cell Modulator (SCM) of Fate Therapeutics is FT1050 for enhancing hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplant, which is currently undergoing clinical testing at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute and Massachusetts General Hospital in adult patients with hematologic malignancies, such as leukemia and lymphoma.

The discovery engine of Fate Therapeutics, which is based in San Diego, uses the most advanced biologics and reprogramming technologies for identifying promising points of therapeutic intervention. Fate Therapeutics was named a Top 10 Innovator in Biotechnology for 2010 by Fast Company, and its discovery engine has received numerous accolades, including being recognized as the Top Technology of 2009 by The Scientist and having received the 2009 North American Technology Innovation Award from Frost & Sullivan.