Vector Bioscience Cambridge Ltd

Company description

Vector Bioscience Cambridge researches nanotechnology for use in drug delivery, including RNA-based cancer treatments, with the aim of commercialisation.

Vector Bioscience stems from over 15 years of research in innovative materials and drug delivery by the group of Prof. David Fairen-Jimenez from the Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology at the University of Cambridge. Vector develops a technology platform with the potential to ultimately become the almost universal solution highly needed in the targeted delivery of macromolecules - particularly RNA delivery. The technology is based on metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), nanoparticles that carry RNA molecules, like a shuttle for pharmaceuticals. MOFs display different advantages - firstly they offer controlled release of the RNA macromolecules, improving safety and selectivity. Moreover, MOFs protect the RNA from degradation and increase their solubility and bioavailability. Overall, Vector's technology has shown promising results in treating complicated cancers, including hard-to-treat tumours in the brain, lung, and pancreas.

Project impact

Vector Bioscience, a spin-out company of the Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology at the University of Cambridge, has just received £2.2 million from the European Innovation Council (EIC) thanks to the "Transition Challenge" investment programme. This capital will allow Vector to develop its novel RNA delivery platform, increasing RNA therapies' safety, specificity, and effectiveness. Vector has already been awarded an additional £500k from Innovate UK