Regenerative nanomedicines: an emerging investment prospective?

Abstract

Cells respond to their structural surrounding and within nanostructures exhibit unique proliferative and differentiation properties. The application of nanotechnologies to the field of regenerative medicine offers the potential to direct cell fate, target the delivery of cells and reduce immune rejection (via encapsulation), thereby supporting the development of regenerative medicines. The overall objective of any therapy is the delivery of the product not just into the clinic but also to patients on a routine basis. Such a goal typically requires a commercial vehicle and substantial levels of investment in scientific, clinical, regulatory and business expertise, resources, time and funding. Therefore, this paper focuses on some of the challenges facing this emerging industry, including investment by the venture capital community.

Figure 1.

Venture capital investment trends in nanotechnology for healthcare and life sciences as a per cent of overall venture capital invested in nanotechnology including manufacturing and materials, electronics and IT, energy and environment (Lux Research Inc. 2008).

Figure 2.

Biotechnology-related IPO activity since 2005. Grey bars, IPO filed; black bars, IPO withdrawn; YTD, year to date.