Wobble Genomics raises £8.5m to reveal ‘unseen world of RNA’

Wobble Genomics has raised £8.5 million, in a funding round led by BGF and Mercia Ventures, and backed by IQ Capital, EOS Advisors, and Old College Capital (the University of Edinburgh’s venture fund).

The Edinburgh spinout, which is currently operating in stealth mode, has found a way to detect previously invisible ‘full length’ RNA. technology could have wide-ranging applications, from drug development and research to agriculture and ecology.

Wobble was established in 2021 by Dr Richard Kuo, who has more than 15 years’ experience in biology and bioengineering, including over 10 years carrying out research into long-read RNA sequencing at the University of Edinburgh’s Roslin Institute.

Genetic sequencing offers a way to understand the behaviour of cells. Current techniques largely focus on DNA, but it is the RNA molecules which ultimately determine their behaviour. RNA sequencing, therefore, can provide a better understanding of how cells will react in different situations.

Historically, it has been difficult to use RNA sequencing for many applications, due to the inherent instability of RNA, its complex molecular structure, and the abundance of molecules. In addition, current techniques known as ‘short-read sequencing’ can only measure small fragments of RNA, which does not capture important information. Wobble’s novel approach overcomes these challenges and enables long-read sequencing, allowing for optimal detection of full length RNA.

Dr Richard Kuo, CEO of Wobble Genomics, said: “Genetic sequencing has come a long way since its inception in the 1970s. The industry is now moving past short-read towards long-read sequencing, with long-read RNA sequencing being one of the most exciting new developments in biotechnology. We believe our solution could accelerate a new wave of biotechnology innovations.”

The company currently employs a team of 10, and expects to double in size in the next two years. This latest funding round brings the total amount raised by Wobble to date to over £10.5 million.

BGF’s Jo Smart said: “Wobble has developed a full stack approach to identifying and analysing RNA markers – an exciting field of research and development in the biotechnology sector – which has the potential to revolutionise the early detection of cancer markers from blood. We look forward to bringing our considerable experience in the life sciences market to support the business, as it continues to build further validation and guide how the technology is taken to market.”