Amaroq Therapeutics, a new biotech start-up spun out of the University of Otago in New Zealand, with one of the world’s most advanced programs in next-generation RNA therapy to target cancer, has secured NZ$14 million investment to accelerate development.

The study of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), often referred to as “dark matter” of the genome, are molecules naturally present in cells.

The Amaroq Therapeutics team, led by Chief Scientific Officer and founder, Dr Sarah Diermeier, are pioneers in exploring the use of lncRNA molecules as therapeutic targets and diagnostic markers in the treatment of cancer. They will be working on therapies to treat common cancers such as breast, colorectal and liver cancer.

The $14 million investment was led by the life science investor, Brandon Capital along with Otago Innovation Ltd, NZ Innovation Booster and Cure Kids Ventures.

Amaroq is the first recipient of investment from Brandon Capital under the program and the investment also stands as the largest investment ever secured by Otago Innovation.

Otago Innovation is one of six New Zealand members able to access capital, expertise, and networks to take biomedical discoveries to market.