AI-Driven RNA Discovery: Umlaut.bio Secures €3M to Decode tRNA Modifications in Cancer and Autoimmunity

Umlaut.bio GmbH announced it has extended its pre-seed financing to approximately €3 million, following new support from the Basel-based accelerator BaseLaunch. The German-Swiss company is developing a first-in-biology platform that utilizes small molecules to inhibit enzymes responsible for tRNA modifications. This capital injection is designated to accelerate the translation of pioneering RNA science into therapeutic candidates for aggressive cancers and autoimmune diseases. The company’s core technology addresses a specific regulatory layer where tRNA modifications dictate the stability of protein-coding mRNA. Research published in Cell reveals that cancer cells frequently upregulate these modifications to prevent the decay of oncogenic messages. Umlaut’s proprietary high-throughput screening and mass spectrometry platform identifies compounds that can disrupt this process, effectively restoring natural cellular controls to halt disease progression.

With the new funds, Umlaut.bio plans to focus on lead optimization and the generation of critical in vivo data. A primary target for the company is Systemic Sclerosis, a severe autoimmune condition with limited treatment options. By targeting tRNA modifications, the company aims to overcome the limitations of traditional protein-based therapies and address the fundamental drivers of uncontrolled cell proliferation and chronic inflammation.

To support these clinical ambitions, the firm has significantly strengthened its Scientific Advisory Board with two global leaders. Prof. Dr. Oliver Distler from University Hospital Zurich joins to catalyze the systemic sclerosis franchise, while Prof. Dr. Tsutomu Suzuki from the University of Tokyo provides deep expertise in RNA biochemistry. Their combined knowledge ensures the company remains at the forefront of tRNA science while navigating the complexities of patient treatment guidelines.

As a spin-off from the European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Umlaut.bio has already earned recognition through major industry programs like AbbVie’s Golden Ticket and the Mission BioCapital Platinum Program. Backed by investors including HTGF and LBBW Venture Capital, the company is now transitioning from foundational discovery toward becoming a robust preclinical entity. This progress highlights the increasing importance of the Heidelberg and Basel biotech hubs in fostering high-impact medical innovation.