SonoThera raised $125 million to push its ultrasound-based, non-viral gene delivery platform into clinical development. The funding follows the company’s focus on two lead programs—Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD)—as it prepares for clinic-stage execution. The round was supported by major pharma investors including Vida Ventures, with participation from the venture arms of UCB, Bayer, Otsuka Pharmaceutical, and Johnson & Johnson. SonoThera described the technology as addressing safety and dosing limitations seen with viral vectors and manufacturing constraints associated with both viruses and lipid nanoparticles. SonoThera’s delivery concept uses infused DNA/RNA with microbubbles, then applies ultrasound to activate the bubbles and create transient paths in targeted tissue microvasculature. Founder Kenneth Greenberg linked the platform’s interest to its potential for broader patient access beyond rare diseases. For the sector, the financing signals continued backing for differentiated physical delivery methods in gene therapy—especially approaches that aim to reduce immunogenicity and manufacturing complexity.