Merganser Biotech

Merganser Biotech Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania developing hepcidin mimetic peptides called minihepcidins as novel therapeutics for hematological and iron overload disorders, including beta-thalassemia and conditions requiring iron regulation. The company licensed minihepcidin technology from UCLA and advanced its lead candidate M012 into a Phase 1 clinical trial initiated in February 2016. Minihepcidins work by mimicking or amplifying hepcidin activity to reduce iron absorption and erythroid iron intake, addressing diseases characterized by excess iron loading. The company has been supported by grants from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.