Lucerna

Lucerna Technologies is a private, early-stage biotech company specializing in RNA-targeted research tools and drug discovery platforms. Its core intellectual property is the Spinach™ technology, an RNA aptamer system that fluoresces upon binding small-molecule dyes, allowing researchers to image and track RNA in real-time within living cells. The company has successfully commercialized research reagents, secured SBIR grant funding, and completed custom R&D projects for major pharmaceutical companies. Lucerna's strategic focus is on providing enabling tools to accelerate the identification and development of novel RNA-targeted therapeutics, particularly in splicing modulation and antiviral drug discovery.

Spinach™ RNA aptamer technology: a platform of fluorescent RNA aptamers (e.g., Spinach, Broccoli) that bind and activate small-molecule fluorophores, enabling real-time visualization and sensing of RNA in living cells. Adapted for high-throughput drug screening assays targeting RNA splicing and structure.

Lucerna competes in the RNA research tools space against large reagent companies like Thermo Fisher Scientific and Merck Millipore, which offer broad portfolios. More direct competitors include startups developing RNA labeling technologies (e.g., using CRISPR/Cas systems with fluorescent proteins). Its drug discovery platform competes with other high-throughput screening service providers and internal pharma capabilities, differentiating itself through its specific focus on endogenous RNA splicing and structure detection.