Epitome Therapeutics, a Vienna-based biotech startup specializing in precision epigenome editing, has secured €4 million in pre-seed funding to accelerate the development of its proprietary technology platform and expand its team. The oversubscribed round was led by XISTA Science Ventures, with participation from Caesar Ventures and Navec Venture Holding GmbH.
The funding comprises €2 million in equity and €2 million in non-dilutive grants, a structure that allows the company to advance its research while preserving equity for future financing rounds. Founded in 2025, Epitome Therapeutics brings together a team focused on translating epigenome editing science into therapeutic applications.
Building the CADENCE Platform
At the core of Epitome Therapeutics’ approach is its CADENCE platform, a technology designed for programmable gene expression. The platform represents a distinct approach within the broader field of genetic modification, targeting the regulatory mechanisms that control how genes are expressed rather than altering the genes themselves. This epigenome editing approach has attracted significant interest from the investment community.
“Completing an oversubscribed financing is a strong endorsement of both our team and the potential of the CADENCE platform,” said Dr. Guido Gualdoni, a key figure at the company. “The new funding enables us to build the company around CADENCE and translate our science into the first development programmes.”
The capital will be deployed to advance multiple development programs and strengthen the organization’s capabilities through strategic hiring. The company plans to use the resources to move from preclinical research toward developing its first drug candidates, marking a critical transition from pure technology development to therapeutic applications.
Growing European Biotech Momentum
Epitome Therapeutics joins a growing cohort of European biotech companies attracting significant early-stage funding for genetic and epigenetic technologies. Austria has established itself as a notable hub for life sciences innovation, with Vienna serving as home to several research-focused pharmaceutical and biotechnology ventures. The involvement of established venture capital firms like XISTA Science Ventures and Caesar Ventures demonstrates confidence in the region’s scientific talent and innovative approaches to drug development.
Epigenome editing represents a relatively nascent field compared to established gene editing techniques, offering potential advantages in precision and reversibility. Companies developing these platforms are emerging across Europe, with investors recognizing the potential market opportunity in treating conditions ranging from cancer to neurological disorders.
As Epitome Therapeutics advances its CADENCE platform and pursues its first development programs, the company will likely seek additional funding in subsequent rounds. The successful oversubscription of this pre-seed round suggests the startup has positioned itself effectively within the competitive landscape of early-stage biotech innovation.