Turn Bio Acquires Vesigen’s Microvesicle Delivery System for Epigenetic Therapies

Turn Biotechnologies, a biotechnology company based in Mountain View, California, announced on March 26, 2025, the acquisition of ARMMs (ARRDC1-Mediated Microvesicles) technology from Vesigen Therapeutics. This acquisition includes a license from Harvard University and associated intellectual property, aimed at expanding the delivery capabilities for Turn Bio’s epigenetic therapies.

ARMMs technology utilizes human extracellular vesicles engineered to deliver therapeutic molecules directly into targeted tissues. This technology is designed to carry a diverse range of cargoes, including gene editors, proteins, and RNA-based therapies. Turn Bio states that preclinical data suggest ARMMs effectively target various tissues such as retinal, lung, nervous system, liver, and spleen.

The ARMMs technology will be integrated with Turn Bio’s existing lipid nanoparticle-based eTurna delivery platform. The company expects this combination to broaden therapeutic reach and enhance precision, enabling the advancement of pipeline candidates in ophthalmology, dermatology, and immune cell rejuvenation.

Anja Krammer, CEO of Turn Bio, indicated that the acquired technology is intended to provide more precise delivery for the company's epigenetic reprogramming therapies and increase its capability to transport larger, more complex therapeutic agents. According to Krammer, these advancements could potentially position Turn Bio to contribute significantly to regenerative medicine.

Turn Biotechnologies’ pipeline includes preclinical-stage therapies in dermatology for skin rejuvenation, wound healing, hair restoration, and eyelash growth; in ophthalmology for glaucoma and an additional undisclosed indication; in immunology for T-cell rejuvenation; in musculoskeletal health for age-related frailty and sarcopenia; and in osteoarthritis for cartilage restoration. Additional programs are under development for future indications. 

Therapies for skin, T-cell rejuvenation, and sarcopenia are at preclinical in vivo stage.

Turn Biotechnologies, founded in February 2018, focuses on reversing aging processes at the cellular level through epigenetic modulation. The company is preclinical-stage, developing therapies intended to restore cell functionality in conditions associated with aging, including skin aging, muscle degeneration, vision impairment, and immune dysfunction.

Cover photo: Aerial view of downtown Mountain View, California, SpVVK

Topics: Startups & Deals