Celaid Therapeutics reportedly secures $2.6M Series B second close

Celaid Therapeutics has reportedly closed a second tranche of its Series B round, with sources citing JPY 400 million (approximately $2.6 million) raised. The Tokyo-based biotech is said to be earmarking the capital for preparations to advance its CLD-001 hematopoietic stem cell therapy into U.S. clinical development.

Celaid has not disclosed the total size of the Series B or its valuation in prior statements, including when details of Shionogi’s participation first emerged earlier this month.

CLD-001 is positioned as a potential treatment for rare blood disorders, though Celaid has not released detailed clinical data. The company’s focus on hematopoietic stem cells aligns with broader industry efforts to develop cell-based therapies for genetic and degenerative conditions, though few have advanced beyond early-stage trials.

Shionogi’s involvement could suggest increasing pharmaceutical interest in preclinical stem cell programs, particularly those targeting niche indications. The significance of the reported $2.6 million tranche—whether it reflects cautious validation or a prelude to larger commitments—remains unclear. Celaid has not announced a timeline for U.S. regulatory filings.

Sources: pulse2.com