bit.bio Secures $50 Million Series C to Scale Human Cell Programming Technology

bit.bio, the Cambridge-based pioneer in next-generation human cell programming, has successfully closed a $50 million Series C funding round led by M&G Investments. This injection of patient capital represents a significant endorsement of the company mission to transform drug development within the United Kingdom. The funding will be used to move toward strategic milestones and scale the company operational footprint to meet increasing global demand. Central to this effort is the development of ioCells technology, which facilitates a global shift toward New Approach Methodologies. These advanced cell-based models improve the predictiveness of new medicines while significantly reducing the industry reliance on animal testing. The proprietary system uses precision gene-engineering to convert stem cells into consistent batches of functional human cells.

Integrating AI and High-Fidelity Data

A major focus for the new capital is the generation of high-fidelity biological datasets required to train advanced AI models for drug discovery. Traditional biological data often contains inconsistencies that hinder the training of predictive algorithms. By providing reproducible human cells, bit.bio creates the clean data environment needed for AI to accurately predict drug interactions and toxicity. This technological edge allows bit.bio to expand into the multi-billion dollar toxicology market. Consistent human cells provide a more accurate representation of how drugs will behave in the human body compared to variable animal models. The company intends to scale its production capabilities to become a key partner for pharmaceutical and biotech organizations worldwide.

Leadership and Strategic Growth

Alongside the funding, the company has welcomed Lord David Prior to its leadership team as Board Chair. Lord Prior previously served as the Chairman of NHS England and brings extensive experience in health policy and life sciences. His guidance will be vital as bit.bio navigates its transition from a private entity toward potential public market entry. CEO Przemek Obloj noted that providing reliable human cells helps build a world-class life sciences business in the UK. The company remains committed to accelerating drug development from initial digital model training through to final safety testing. This investment from M&G marks a vote of confidence in a UK success story poised for significant international growth.