Life sciences firm Mederi Therapeutics raises $18.5m from backers including biotech firm Bio-Rad Laboratories.

Mederi Therapeutics, a US-based life sciences firm, has secured $18.5m in series B preferred stock ($8.5m) and venture debt ($10m).

Participating in the series B were Respiratory Diagnostics, a subsidiary of biotech firm Bio-Rad Laboratories, venture firm Acadia Woods Partners, and a group of private investors. The $10m venture debt was provided by Horizon Technology Finance.

The funds will be used to further develop the Connecticut-based Mederi’s primary therapies for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), more commonly known as acid reflux,…