Smarter RNA
Syrina Therapeutics Inc. is developing next-generation RNA technology to help people with rare and chronic diseases produce missing proteins — right inside their bodies.
Many current treatments for genetic disorders like Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (A1ATD) require frequent and expensive infusions. Syrina Therapeutics’ platform could replace this with a single injection that lasts up to a month, offering a more convenient, scalable and less invasive solution.
The biotech startup uses a self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) platform that tells the body to make missing or malfunctioning proteins. The platform delivers the saRNA to the liver and leverages it as a bioreactor. Unlike conventional mRNA or viral gene therapies, their system is:
- Flexible: Tuned for short-term or longer-lasting treatments. Can be modified to achieve different expression kinetics.
- Less reactive: Reduces immune side effects.
- Repeatable: Doesn’t permanently alter DNA and can be re-dosed.
Their first target is A1ATD — a serious, underdiagnosed condition affecting thousands across North America. Syrina Therapeutics’ technology could also be applied to other bleeding and metabolic diseases, with potential to accelerate drug development and attract pharma partners.
Science in Motion
What they’ve done: Syrina Therapeutics Inc. is the first to show that self-amplifying RNA can deliver therapeutic protein levels in the liver for over 30 days — an achievement unmatched by others in the space. This breakthrough has already drawn interest from pharmaceutical companies, with preliminary agreements to adapt FDA-approved protein therapies using Syrina Therapeutics’ approach for improved delivery and manufacturing.
A key milestone was bringing on one of the world’s top lipid nanoparticle experts as a cofounder, giving Syrina Therapeutics a proprietary advantage in delivery science. Together with promising immunogenicity data and early pre-seed funding, Syrina is positioning itself as a standout RNA platform company.
Why NVBC: Syrina Therapeutics Inc. joined this year’s competition to accelerate its shift from platform validation to early commercialization. The team is using the competition to refine its go-to-market strategy, gain investor exposure, and validate its model with experienced evaluators. A win would directly fund key intellectual property development and help strengthen Syrina’s competitive edge.
Up Next: Syrina Therapeutics Inc. is focused on advancing its lead therapeutic for A1ATD. Priorities include scaling RNA manufacturing, optimizing delivery, and completing in vivo safety and efficacy studies. These milestones will support regulatory filings for first-in-human trials and open doors to follow-on investment, non-dilutive funding, and co-development partnerships.
Scientists Just Want to Have Fun
The best advice Syrina’s team has taken to heart? Have fun while doing this.
In the high-stakes world of biotech, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But for Syrina Therapeutics’ founders, the joy comes from turning cutting-edge science into real-world impact. That mindset keeps them grounded, fuels creativity, and builds resilience through the inevitable ups and downs. Staying connected to the mission—and enjoying the process—has helped the team maintain momentum and move forward with purpose.
Meet The Team
Francesca Ferraresso, CEO & Co-Founder
Credo Casmil, CSO & Co-Founder
Dr. Anna Blakney, Board Chair & Co-Founder
Dr. Christian Kastrup, Director & Co-Founder
Dr. Pieter Cullis, Director & Co-Founder
Company Cheatsheet:
City: Vancouver
Founded: 2025
Sector: Biotech
