On this episode of the Iowa Tech Podcast, host Kaylee Williams welcomes back Dr. Tony Vanden Bush, CEO of Syntherna, for a candid look at how the biotech startup has navigated a shifting market. Since their last chat in August 2024, attitudes toward RNA vaccines have cooled and animal-health regulatory timelines have lengthened – two forces outside the company’s control. Tony explains Syntherna’s dual pivot: opening their in-house RNA manufacturing capabilities as a CRO-style “pick-and-shovel” service to generate non-dilutive revenue, and elevating their slow-release vaccine implant for companion animals (with potential in livestock) to the front of their R&D roadmap. He details how a four-person team re-triages time and talent, explores crossovers like RNA delivery via implant, and keeps stakeholders aligned through frequent, transparent communication – even when the answer is “I don’t know.”
The conversation broadens into practical founder wisdom: why platforms beat “widgets,” how to think about failure as learning, and the realities of capital in Midwest biotech – balancing smart, value-add investment with the occasional need for passive dollars to bridge gaps. Tony remains bullish on RNA’s long-term role, especially in cancer immunotherapeutics, even if broad adoption takes years. They close with a teaser for his forthcoming book, The Elements of Science: a pocket guide to thinking and experimenting like a scientist – applicable well beyond the lab – and an invitation to connect via the email in the show notes.
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Show Notes:
- From flagship to “pick-and-shovel”: With attitudes toward RNA vaccines softening and animal-health regulatory timelines lengthening, Syntherna moved RNA out of the top R&D slot. They’ve opened their in-house RNA manufacturing know-how as a CRO-style service—supplying tools and expertise to other companies pursuing RNA programs.
- Doubling down on an implant platform: Syntherna elevated its slow-release vaccine implant for animals (companion first, exploratory work in food animals) to priority one. The promise: fewer vet visits, no boosters, and a broader, more durable immune response. The team is also exploring crossover potential, including RNA delivery via implant.
- Resource triage at a four-person startup: The main constraint is hands-on work. Tony shares how the team reallocated scientists between platforms while maintaining momentum across all three IP areas.
- Transparent stakeholder communication: Frequent, structured updates, clear options, and openness to “I don’t know” have helped maintain trust through change. Tony frames failure as essential learning—provided the company has the runway to weather it.
- Smart vs. passive money: In the Midwest, “smart money” in biotech can be scarce. Tony favors investors who add domain value and regulatory connections, while also acknowledging the role of non-dilutive revenue to extend runway.
- RNA’s future: Not dead—especially strong in cancer immunotherapy and other niches. Expect a cyclical return as the market evolves.
- Bonus: Tony previews a forthcoming book, The Elements of Science: A Pocket Guide, co-authored with colleagues to help students and practitioners think and run experiments like scientists.
