Transforming cancer treatment with smart RNA therapeutics

RXcel`s encouraging pre-clinical data in Glioblastoma

At RXcel, we are committed to addressing some of the most challenging and underserved diseases in oncology. Glioblastoma — the most aggressive and lethal form of brain cancer — is a key focus area for us. Why?

Molecular Target identified

Through our proprietary research platform, RXcel has identified a well-defined molecular driver in glioblastoma. This target offers a rational and potentially transformative approach to treatment, setting the foundation for a more precise therapeutic intervention.

Unmet medical need

Despite current standard-of-care treatments (surgery, radiotherapy, and temozolomide), median survival for patients with glioblastoma remains just 12 to 15 months. There have been few advances over the past two decades, and recurrence is almost inevitable. Novel, targeted therapies are urgently needed.

Limited trial activitiy

Compared to other solid tumors, glioblastoma sees disproportionately low clinical trial activity — despite its severity and poor prognosis. This highlights a major gap in innovation and investment that RXcel is aiming to address.

Behind the science

In glioblastoma, a common deletion on chromosome 9 leads to the loss of the tumor suppressor gene CDKN2A. RXcel has developed a smart RNA molecule capable of sensing the absence of CDKN2A transcripts.

When these transcripts are missing, the RNA triggers the expression of a therapeutic effector protein. This selective response is enabled by the RNA’s engineered stability — it remains active and therapeutically effective only when CDKN2A is absent, and is rapidly degraded when the target is present, ensuring precise control and minimizing off-target effects.

In collaboration with our academic partners RXcel has now proven that this is no longer a hypothesis. We have successfully delivered RNA probes in vitro with conditional stability and delivered cytotoxic signals.

Founding RXcel as GmbH

An idea is born, Simon and Michal lay the foundation in Basel, Switzerland

06/08/2023

Concept feasibility with Innosuisse

In collaboration with academic partners, RXcel has successfully conducted a proof-of-concept experiment, funded by Innosuisse. This study demonstrated a statistically significant difference of effector protein production in specific cell lines with and without CDKN2A, using fluorescent reporter constructs (eGFP). The underlying concept has been discussed with scientists in the relevant fields, who have expressed confidence in its potential.

01/03/2024

Expansion, Validation. Partnerships

We have begun building partnerships with highly experienced experts to help accelerate our mission. Private funding has enabled us to revalidate and optimize in vitro results in close collaboration with FHNW and the University of Prague.

01/01/2025

Close in vivo optimization during Q3/4 2025

In close collaboration with our academic partners, we are currently optimizing our target RNA, aiming to reach in vivo readiness by Q1 2026. This includes the integration of new RNA designs to build a versatile therapeutic platform, along with ongoing validation of the molecular mechanism and assessment of potential off-target effects. To advance into in vivo studies, additional funding will be required, and RXcel has initiated early-stage discussions to secure the necessary resources.

12/31/2025

To further strengthen our vision and operations, we are partnering with scientific and medical experts as strategic advisors and consultants.

Simon Buerssner

Founder

Biologist with experience in lipid nano carriers and RNA therapeutics

Michal Kloc

Founder

Physicist and passionate data scientist, extensive experience in cancer biology

Petr Svoboda

Strategic Consultant

Professor, researcher and academic specialized on post-transcriptional regulations and RNA

To be announced

Strategic Advisor

Global therapeutic area specialist in Glioblastoma (Professor, researcher and academic)

Vogesenstrasse 32, Basel, Schweiz