Tune Therapeutics, a Seattle-based biotech company, has raised $175 million in its largest funding round yet, according to recent reports. The startup is pioneering epigenetic editing technology that controls gene expression without modifying the DNA sequence itself.
Tune’s approach addresses the misregulation of genes, which are responsible for many diseases and conditions. By targeting “misbehaving” genes, Tune aims to deliver a treatment that regulates their behavior for a controlled amount of time. This method uses tools from targeted genetics and lipid nanoparticle technology, commonly used in COVID shots.
The company is currently enrolling patients in its clinical trials for Hepatitis B, a condition affecting over 250 million people globally. Although results are uncertain due to the novelty of the technology, Tune’s co-founder Akira Matsuno expressed excitement about the potential impact on patients and the field.
Tune launched in 2020 with 80 employees across its labs in Seattle and Durham. The company has built a genetic tuning platform called TEMPO, which can be applied to various health conditions. With this funding, Tune plans to enroll more patients in its Hepatitis B clinical trials until 2025.
Recent funding rounds for Pacific Northwest-based startups have been substantial, with Kestra Medical Technologies securing $196 million, Borealis Biosciences raising $180 million, and Outpace Bio securing $144 million. Tune’s latest funding round is led by New Enterprise Associates, Yosemite, Regeneron Ventures, and Hevolution Foundation.
Source: https://www.geekwire.com/2025/seattle-biotech-startup-tune-therapeutics-lands-175m-to-support-clinical-research