Cartesian Therapeutics (NASDAQ:RNAC) is a clinical-stage biotechnology company specializing in the development of next-generation cell and gene therapies using a proprietary messenger RNA (mRNA) platform. The company’s core technology enables precise, nonviral delivery of mRNA to patient-derived immune cells, allowing for customized engineering of T cells and other immune effectors. Cartesian’s approach is designed to accelerate manufacturing timelines, reduce production complexity and enhance safety profiles compared with conventional viral vector–based methods.
The company’s pipeline includes multiple investigational programs targeting hematologic malignancies and solid tumors. Cartesian’s lead candidates are engineered T-cell therapies that coexpress tumor-targeting receptors and immune-modulating payloads, with preclinical data demonstrating potent anti-tumor activity. In addition to oncology applications, Cartesian is evaluating its mRNA delivery platform for therapeutic areas such as autoimmune disorders and rare genetic diseases, leveraging modular design principles to address diverse disease targets.
Founded in 2018 as a spin-out from leading academic research institutions, Cartesian Therapeutics is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with research collaborations and manufacturing partnerships across North America and Europe. Since its inception, the company has established cGMP-compliant manufacturing capacity to support clinical supply and is working closely with contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMOs) to scale its operations in preparation for late-stage trials.
Cartesian’s leadership team comprises industry veterans in cell and gene therapy development, mRNA biology, regulatory affairs and commercial strategy. The executive suite is led by a Chief Executive Officer with over two decades of experience in biologics innovation, supported by a Chief Scientific Officer renowned for contributions to RNA engineering. The company’s board of directors includes experts in clinical development, manufacturing and patient advocacy, reflecting Cartesian’s commitment to advancing transformational therapies from bench to bedside.