
ROME Therapeutics is pioneering a new approach to treating serious diseases by illuminating the dark genome, which consists of vast regions of underexplored genetic material. The company focuses on developing novel therapies for cancer and autoimmune diseases, leveraging insights from the dark genome to create breakthrough treatments. Their lead program targets LINE-1 reverse transcriptase, a protein linked to various diseases, including autoimmune disorders and cancer. ROME's world-class team combines expertise in oncology, immunology, machine learning, and virology, positioning the company as a leader in this innovative field.

ROME Therapeutics is pioneering a new approach to treating serious diseases by illuminating the dark genome, which consists of vast regions of underexplored genetic material. The company focuses on developing novel therapies for cancer and autoimmune diseases, leveraging insights from the dark genome to create breakthrough treatments. Their lead program targets LINE-1 reverse transcriptase, a protein linked to various diseases, including autoimmune disorders and cancer. ROME's world-class team combines expertise in oncology, immunology, machine learning, and virology, positioning the company as a leader in this innovative field.
Founded: 2020
Headquarters: Boston/Cambridge, MA
Therapeutic focus: Targeting the dark genome/repeatome (LINE-1) for cancer and autoimmune disease
Lead programs: Selective LINE-1 reverse transcriptase inhibitors
Total disclosed funding: Approximately $199M (multiple rounds, latest 2023)
Cancer, autoimmune diseases, neurodegeneration (research and programs linked to LINE-1 activity and Type I interferonriven autoimmune disease)
2020
Biotechnology
72000000
Oversubscribed $72M Series B extension bringing total Series B to $149M; expanded investor syndicate with strategic pharma and venture investors
77000000
Series B to advance pipeline and expand repeatomics platform; included participation from Sanofi Ventures, Casdin Capital, Andreessen Horowitz and Alexandria Venture Investments
50000000
Company launched with a $50M Series A and founding IP
“Includes participation from strategic pharma and top-tier biotech investors (examples: Section 32, Sanofi Ventures, Johnson & Johnson Innovation, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Andreessen Horowitz, GV, Casdin Capital, Alexandria Venture Investments)”