Vector BioPharma is building a precision gene delivery platform based on engineered, high-capacity virus-like particles that are devoid of viral genes to reduce immunogenicity. The platform pairs large-capacity DNA delivery (up to 36 kb) with exogenous high-avidity adapter proteins to enable cell- and tissue-specific targeting and tunable expression of single or multiple genes. Vector’s capsid shielding technology and adapter-mediated targeting are intended to overcome limits of tissue specificity, cargo size, and immune reactions seen with conventional viral vectors such as AAV. The technology was developed in Andreas Plückthun’s laboratory at the University of Zürich and is being advanced by a leadership team led by CEO Lorenz Mayr. The company is based in Basel, Switzerland, employs about 40 staff, and plans technical proof-of-concept data in immuno-oncology and genome editing this year, with in vivo data for lead programs expected in the first half of 2023. Financially, Vector launched with a $30 million Series A commitment from Versant Ventures.

Total raised

$30M

Funding rounds

1

Latest round

Series A

Latest activity

Aug 2022