Funding Surge for RNA Innovation

On December 14, 2024, Replicor Inc. announced the close of a $180 million Series C financing round led by Arch Venture Partners and Novo Holdings. The funds will accelerate development of its nucleic acid polymer (NAP) platform, which amplifies therapeutic RNA activity without viral vectors or lipid nanoparticles.

Replicor’s lead candidate REP 2139, currently in Phase 2 trials for chronic hepatitis B, uses NAPs to block viral surface antigen release and restore immune control. The new funding will support expanded indications, including hepatitis D, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and rare pediatric liver disorders.

CEO Dr. Andrew Vaillant stated: “This platform isn’t just antiviral—it’s immunomodulatory, scalable, and ready to redefine RNA delivery.”

Platform Expansion and Pipeline Strategy

Replicor’s NAPs are synthetic phosphorothioated oligonucleotides that act intracellularly to inhibit viral particle secretion. Unlike siRNA or mRNA therapies, NAPs don’t require encapsulation and can be administered intravenously with minimal toxicity.

The company plans to initiate three new INDs in 2025, including a first-in-human trial for REP 3010 targeting intrahepatic cholestasis. It also announced a strategic partnership with the NIH to explore NAPs in post-viral syndromes and immune reconstitution.

Replicor’s pipeline now includes six candidates, with two entering pivotal trials by late 2025.

Global Impact and Regulatory Outlook

With RMAT and Orphan Drug designations already granted for REP 2139, Replicor is engaging with EMA and PMDA to align global regulatory pathways. The company is also exploring subcutaneous formulations to enable outpatient use and broader access in low-resource settings.

The Series C round positions Replicor as a key player in next-gen RNA therapeutics, distinct from mRNA vaccine developers and siRNA silencing platforms.

BiopharmaWire will continue tracking Replicor’s clinical milestones, regulatory filings, and platform licensing deals.