Two Chinese biotech companies focused on small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapeutics, RigeRNA and Leaderna Therapeutics, announced new financing rounds on the same day, underscoring continued investor interest in the nucleic-acid drug sector. RigeRNA raised over RMB 200 million in a Pre-A round led by Bayland Capital, with proceeds to advance its lead siRNA candidate for IgA nephropathy (IgAN), which is already in Phase II trials. The company is developing a pipeline of first-in-class candidates for kidney and metabolic diseases.

Leaderna raised RMB 150 million in a Series A round led by Tao Capital. The funds will support the clinical development of its core siRNA pipeline, including a candidate for hypertension dosed every six months that is in Phase II trials, and a candidate for metabolic disease that aims to reduce fat while preserving muscle mass. The company leverages three proprietary technology platforms for oligonucleotide drug discovery and delivery, with a focus on expanding targeting beyond the liver to other tissues.

PharmCube's MedAlpha® database lists eight funding events in China's RNAi sector in 2026 alone, suggesting that activity in the field will surpass last year. Click here to request a free trial for MedAlpha®.