Rona Therapeutics secures Series A+ funding for siRNA pipeline expansion

Rona Therapeutics has successfully raised $35 million in a Series A+ funding round to further their small interfering RNA (siRNA) projects targeting metabolic disorders. This financial boost will also aid in the advancement of their next-generation RNA platforms. The funding round was led by LongRiver Investments, with additional contributions from Zhaode Investment, Zhongqi Capital, BioTrack Capital, and Lilly Asia Ventures. As part of this financing round, LongRiver Investments will take a seat on Rona's board.

Rona Therapeutics is concentrating on the development of siRNA programs, with its flagship product, RN0191, having already completed Phase I clinical studies in both Australia and China. In December 2023, the company received the green light from China’s National Medical Products Administration to start clinical trials for RN0191. This siRNA drug is designed to treat hypercholesterolemia, mixed hyperlipidemia, and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, aiming to lower the risk of cardiovascular events. The asset is set to proceed to Phase II clinical trials for hypercholesterolemia soon.

Another noteworthy project in Rona's pipeline, RN0361, is expected to enter clinical trials in the second quarter of 2024. This drug is aimed at treating hypertriglyceridemia. Beyond these two primary programs, Rona is also working on siRNA solutions for kidney disease, obesity, and other cardiometabolic conditions. Their siRNA drugs exhibit unique properties, especially in liver-targeted metabolism-related applications for cardiovascular diseases, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), obesity, and kidney diseases.

Moreover, Rona Therapeutics is exploring the potential of delivering nucleic acids beyond the liver. Specifically, they are investigating the use of extra-hepatic nucleic acid delivery to treat degenerative diseases in the central nervous system (CNS).

LongRiver Investments expressed their enthusiasm for Rona’s advancements. They highlighted the company's success in bringing two best-in-class siRNA metabolic programs to global development. They also noted the differentiated clinical data and platform value that Rona has demonstrated. LongRiver Investments looks forward to partnering with Rona to unlock the transformative potential of RNA medicines globally.

Zhaode Investment, Zhongqi Capital, BioTrack Capital, and Lilly Asia Ventures have also shown their support and confidence in Rona's innovative approach and advancements in the field of RNA therapeutics. The combined efforts and resources from these investors are expected to significantly expedite the development and potential commercialization of Rona's pioneering siRNA therapies.

Rona Therapeutics stands at the forefront of RNA-based medical innovations, continuously pushing the boundaries of what is achievable with siRNA drugs. Their focus on metabolic diseases and the expansion into CNS degenerative diseases showcases a broad and ambitious research and development agenda. With the newly secured funding, the company is well-positioned to make substantial strides in bringing next-generation RNA therapies to market, potentially providing transformative treatments for a range of serious health conditions.