Lemba Therapeutics
Pioneering RNA technology rooted in Nijmegen.
Innovation through collaboration
Since 2020, U.S.-based biotech company Lemba Therapeutics has been operating from Nijmegen. The company develops therapies and diagnostic tests based on long non-coding RNA. This innovative approach offers new perspectives for patients with neurological disordersage- and inflammation-based disorders, including cancer and osteoarthritis, aiming to improve their quality of life. Lemba Therapeutics chose Nijmegen thanks to a unique collaboration between three professors at Radboud university medical center (Radboudumc): Professor Musa Mhlanga, Professor Mihai Netea, and Professor Leo Joosten. This scientific foundation provided a solid foundation for the start and growth of the company.
We see ourselves as a truly Nijmegen-based company. Nijmegen offers the right mix of knowledge, infrastructure, and collaboration.
Why Nijmegen?
Lemba Therapeutics was drawn to Nijmegen because of its close ties to Radboudumc. “We see ourselves as a truly Nijmegen-based company,” says Prof. Leo Joosten, one of the founders and also a professor at Radboudumc. “Our growth in the coming years will be driven by our relationship with Radboudumc. Nijmegen offers the right mix of knowledge, infrastructure, and collaboration. The presence of Radboudumc and the strong network within Pharma Delta, a collaboration of companies and universities for talent development, further strengthen that position. As a result, we feel both supported and at home in the region."
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Contributing to the ecosystem
Lemba Therapeutics’s technology is innovative and fits well with the ambitions of the regional ecosystem. Its focus on long non-coding RNA is unique and allows the company to apply clinically-proven Antisense Oligonucleotide (ASO) technology to an entirely new target space. This adds a new dimension to the existing landscape of therapies. The company also contributes to the region’s broader goal of accessible healthcare in the future. Their scientific input and collaboration with academic institutions make them a valuable partner in the local network. Lemba has started a Public Private Partnership (PPP) collaboration with ReumaNederland and Radboudumc to use Lemba technology to develop treatments for Osteoarthritis (OA).
Gaining from the network
The region offers more than just a strategic location. Lemba Therapeutics gains access to research data, expertise, and patient groups through its close collaboration with Radboudumc. This accelerates their innovation process. In addition, connections with other players in Pharma Delta generate insights and opportunities. The result is a dynamic ecosystem where businesses and knowledge institutions strengthen one another.
A smooth landing in the region
Oost NL supported Lemba Therapeutics with information, advice, and matchmaking within the ecosystem. This helped the company quickly find its footing in the region. Now firmly established in Nijmegen, Lemba Therapeutics looks forward to continued growth and development.
