Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc. (RNAC) Stock Analysis
For informational purposes only. Not financial advice. Analysis by Sedat ANAK, Founder & Editor-in-Chief | AI-powered analysis. Data sourced from SEC filings and institutional-grade financial providers. Editorially reviewed. Not financial advice.
Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc. (RNAC) trades at $10.23 with AI Score 12/100 (Grade F). Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing nanoparticle immunomodulatory drugs. Market cap: $301M, Sector: Healthcare.
Price as of Aug 21, 2026 · Last analyzed: May 7, 2026RNAC stock analysis for 2026: Analysts have set a consensus price target of $16.00 for Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc., suggesting 56.4% upside from the current price of $10.23. The AI MoonshotScore is 12/100, indicating a strong bearish outlook. Key factors: analyst coverage, AI-driven quantitative scoring.
RNAC: 2/3 scored disciplines lean bearish. Dominant signal: Ken Griffin bullish.
How is this calculated? →Why this analysis is different
- A sector-relative MoonshotScore — five pillars (business quality, financial safety, valuation, growth durability, momentum) re-ranked nightly against the full universe of US-listed common stocks.
- An AI Council read across up to eight perspectives — value, macro, quantitative, and momentum lenses — that shows where they disagree instead of averaging the tension away.
- Figures come straight from FMP and Yahoo Finance filings data. The AI writes the narrative around the numbers — it never edits the numbers.
Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc. (RNAC) Healthcare & Pipeline Overview
Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc., a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, focuses on developing innovative nanoparticle immunomodulatory drugs. Its lead program, SEL-302, is in Phase I trials targeting methylmalonic acidemia. The company also develops biologic therapies and gene therapies for various autoimmune diseases, positioning it within the competitive biotechnology landscape.
What Is the Investment Thesis for RNAC?
Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc. presents a high-risk, high-reward investment opportunity within the biotechnology sector. The company's focus on nanoparticle immunomodulatory drugs and gene therapies offers potential for significant growth, particularly if SEL-302 demonstrates positive results in Phase I clinical trials for methylmalonic acidemia. The Phase III trial for SEL-212 to treat chronic refractory gout offers a near-term catalyst. However, the company's negative profit margin of -8550.6% and gross margin of -621.0% highlight significant financial challenges. Successful navigation of clinical trials, regulatory approvals, and securing additional funding will be crucial for Cartesian's long-term success. The company's collaboration agreements also provide potential revenue streams and validation of its technology.
Based on FMP financials and quantitative analysis
RNAC Key Highlights
Market capitalization of $301M reflects the company's current valuation in the biotechnology market.
- Phase I clinical trial of SEL-302 for methylmalonic acidemia represents a key milestone in the company's gene therapy program.
- Phase III clinical trials of SEL-212 for chronic refractory gout offer a potential near-term catalyst for the company.
- Negative profit margin of -8550.6% indicates significant expenses relative to revenue, typical for clinical-stage biopharmaceutical companies.
- Gross margin of -621.0% reflects the high cost of research and development activities.
Who Are RNAC's Competitors?
RNAC is benchmarked below against 8 industry peers on price, market cap, and our AI MoonshotScore.
| Company | Price | Change | Market Cap | AI Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ALNY Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | $229.30 | -5.49% | $30.7B | 92 |
| CRSP CRISPR Therapeutics AG | $58.90 | -1.52% | $5.68B | 44 |
| BLUE bluebird bio, Inc. | $4.97 | +0.00% | $48.7M | 67 |
| NAGE Niagen Bioscience Inc | $3.15 | -0.63% | $251M | 74 |
| CGEN Compugen Ltd. | $2.65 | +8.61% | $251M | 76 |
| ORMP Oramed Pharmaceuticals Inc. | $4.79 | +0.00% | $196M | 77 |
| ADGI Adagio Therapeutics, Inc. | $4.64 | +0.87% | $506M | 71 |
| MDXG MiMedx Group, Inc. | $4.45 | +2.53% | $649M | 90 |
AI Score by Stock Expert AI · Price data: FMP / Yahoo Finance
What Are RNAC's Key Strengths?
Proprietary nanoparticle technology platform.
- Diverse pipeline of drug candidates targeting various diseases.
- Strategic collaborations with established pharmaceutical companies.
- Clinical-stage programs with potential for near-term catalysts.
What Are RNAC's Weaknesses?
High research and development costs.
- Dependence on clinical trial success and regulatory approvals.
- Negative profit and gross margins.
- Limited commercial infrastructure.
What Could Drive RNAC Stock Higher?
Data readout from Phase I clinical trial of SEL-302 for methylmalonic acidemia.
- Completion of Phase III clinical trials for SEL-212 in chronic refractory gout.
- Advancement of gene therapy programs for autoimmune diseases through preclinical and clinical development.
- Expansion of strategic collaborations and partnerships with pharmaceutical companies.
What Are the Key Risks for RNAC?
Financial-distress signal — its Altman Z-Score of -4.45 sits in the distress zone (elevated bankruptcy risk).
- Inconsistent delivery — missed Wall Street EPS estimates in 5 of the last 8 reported quarters.
- Weak fundamentals — a Piotroski F-Score of 2/9 flags soft profitability, leverage or efficiency.
- Clinical trial failures for SEL-302 or SEL-212.
- Regulatory delays or rejection of drug candidates.
- Competition from larger pharmaceutical companies with more resources.
- High research and development costs and limited financial resources.
- Patent challenges or intellectual property disputes.
What Are the Growth Opportunities for RNAC?
- Expansion of SEL-302 into additional indications: Beyond methylmalonic acidemia, SEL-302's nanoparticle technology could be applied to other genetic disorders with unmet medical needs. This expansion could significantly increase the addressable market, potentially reaching hundreds of millions of dollars within the next 5-7 years, pending clinical trial success and regulatory approvals. Success in MMA could validate the platform and accelerate expansion.
- Advancement of SEL-212 through Phase III clinical trials: Successful completion of Phase III trials for SEL-212 in chronic refractory gout and subsequent regulatory approval would provide Cartesian Therapeutics with a commercial product and a revenue stream. The market for gout treatments is substantial, estimated at billions of dollars annually, offering significant financial potential within the next 2-3 years.
- Development of gene therapies for autoimmune diseases: Cartesian's pipeline of gene therapies targeting autoimmune diseases represents a significant growth opportunity. The market for autoimmune disease treatments is large and growing, driven by increasing prevalence and unmet medical needs. Successful development and commercialization of these therapies could generate substantial revenue within 5-10 years.
- Strategic collaborations and partnerships: Continued collaboration with Ginkgo Bioworks, Astellas, Takeda, and other partners can provide access to new technologies, funding, and expertise, accelerating the development and commercialization of Cartesian's pipeline. These partnerships can also validate the company's technology and increase its visibility within the industry, potentially leading to increased investor interest.
- Expansion into new therapeutic areas: Leveraging its expertise in nanoparticle immunomodulation, Cartesian Therapeutics could expand into new therapeutic areas, such as oncology or infectious diseases. This diversification could reduce the company's reliance on its current pipeline and create new growth opportunities. The timeline for this expansion would depend on the company's research and development efforts and could take several years.
What Are RNAC's Competitive Advantages?
- Proprietary nanoparticle technology for targeted drug delivery.
- Strong intellectual property portfolio covering its drug candidates and technologies.
- Established collaborations with leading biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies.
- Clinical-stage pipeline with multiple programs in development.
What Does RNAC Do?
Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Watertown, Massachusetts, Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc., formerly known as Selecta Biosciences, Inc., is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the research and development of nanoparticle immunomodulatory drugs. The company's mission is to create innovative therapies for the treatment and prevention of human diseases by leveraging its expertise in immune tolerance. Cartesian's lead therapeutic program, SEL-302, is currently in Phase I clinical trials, designed to enhance the treatment of methylmalonic acidemia (MMA), a rare inherited metabolic disorder. In addition to SEL-302, Cartesian Therapeutics is developing a diverse pipeline of biologic therapies, including SEL-212, which is in Phase III clinical trials for the treatment of chronic refractory gout. The company is also pursuing product candidates to address IgA-mediated diseases, such as IgA nephropathy, linear IgA bullous dermatitis, IgA pemphigus, and Henoch-Schonlein purpura. Furthermore, Cartesian is actively engaged in developing gene therapies for conditions like Pompe disease, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, limb-girdle muscular dystrophy, lysosomal storage disorder, and other autoimmune diseases. Cartesian Therapeutics has established numerous license and collaboration agreements with leading organizations, including Ginkgo Bioworks Holdings, Inc., Genovis AB (publ.), Cyrus Biotechnology, Inc., IGAN Biosciences, Inc., Astellas Therapeutics, Inc., Takeda Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc., Swedish Orphan Biovitrum AB (publ.), Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc., Asklepios Biopharmaceutical, Inc., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Shenyang Sunshine Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., to advance its research and development efforts.
What Products and Services Does RNAC Offer?
- Develop nanoparticle immunomodulatory drugs for treating and preventing human diseases.
- Focus on gene therapy programs, with SEL-302 as the lead program in Phase I clinical trials for methylmalonic acidemia.
- Develop biologic therapies, including SEL-212, currently in Phase III clinical trials for chronic refractory gout.
- Create product candidates for IgA-mediated diseases, such as IgA nephropathy.
- Develop gene therapies for Pompe disease, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and other genetic disorders.
- Create tolerogenic therapies for autoimmune diseases.
- Establish license and collaboration agreements with various biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies.
How Does RNAC Make Money?
- Research and development of novel immunomodulatory and gene therapies.
- Out-licensing or partnering of drug candidates with larger pharmaceutical companies.
- Potential for revenue generation through milestone payments and royalties from partnered programs.
- Direct commercialization of approved products, such as SEL-212, if approved for chronic refractory gout.
What Industry Does RNAC Operate In?
Cartesian Therapeutics operates within the competitive biotechnology industry, characterized by high research and development costs, lengthy regulatory approval processes, and intense competition. The market for immunomodulatory drugs and gene therapies is experiencing rapid growth, driven by advancements in biotechnology and increasing prevalence of autoimmune and genetic diseases. Cartesian's focus on nanoparticle technology and strategic collaborations positions it to capitalize on these trends, but it faces competition from larger, more established pharmaceutical companies and other emerging biotech firms.
Who Are RNAC's Key Customers?
- Patients suffering from methylmalonic acidemia (MMA).
- Patients with chronic refractory gout.
- Patients with IgA-mediated diseases.
- Patients with Pompe disease, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and other genetic disorders.
- Pharmaceutical companies through licensing and collaboration agreements.
Forward Outlook
Wall Street analysts project Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc. revenue of about $550K for fiscal 2026, with EPS near $-4.15. The estimate reflects 6 contributing analysts.
Earnings Track Record
Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc. has missed Wall Street's EPS estimate in 5 of its last 8 reported quarters — a mixed record worth weighing. Reported results have landed about 9.2% above estimates on average.
Financial Health
Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc.'s Piotroski F-Score is 2/9, a 9-point checklist of profitability, leverage and efficiency — flagging fundamental weakness worth scrutiny. Its Altman Z-Score of -4.45 places it in the distress zone, a signal of elevated financial risk.
Key Financial Metrics
Return on equity for Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc. stands at 194.1%, a gauge of how efficiently it converts shareholder capital into profit. Return on assets is -52.6%, showing how much profit it generates from its asset base. Its free cash flow yield is -24.4%, a gauge of the cash the business throws off relative to its market value. A current ratio of 7.65 indicates the company holds enough short-term assets to cover its near-term obligations. Its earnings yield is -52.5%, the inverse of the P/E and a quick read on earnings relative to price.
Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc. (RNAC) Valuation Context
Valued at $301M, RNAC is classified as a small-cap stock. Relative to its peer group, RNAC's quantitative score of 12/100 is below the peer average of 71/100.
RNAC Revenue & Earnings Trend
In Q1 2026, RNAC generated $78K in top-line revenue, marking a sequential decrease of 91.8%. The company recorded a net loss of $39.2M, with diluted EPS of $-1.46. Quarter-over-quarter revenue has been mixed, typical for a small-cap company operating in Healthcare.
Company Profile
Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc. operates in the Biotechnology industry within the Healthcare sector. It is headquartered in Frederick, US. The company is led by CEO Carsten Brunn. RNAC has traded publicly since 2016.
RNAC Financials
Fundamental Snapshot
Based on FMP financials and quantitative analysis · FY 2025
Bull Case vs Bear Case
Bull Case
- Cartesian's recent insider buying suggests those closest to the company see significant upside, a classic vote of confidence.
- The buzz in the trading community is definitely picking up, with more users discussing potential catalysts and long-term growth prospects.
- The overall market sentiment seems to be turning more favorable towards biotech, which could lift RNAC along with the sector.
- Cartesian's unique approach to RNA therapies is gaining traction, and the market is starting to recognize its potential to disrupt the industry.
Bear Case
- Recent community chatter reveals concerns about potential dilution, as some traders fear the need for future capital raises.
- There's a growing sense that the market is overhyping the stock, creating a potentially unsustainable bubble.
- Negative sentiment is building around competitor activities, with some suggesting RNAC is falling behind in key areas.
- The overall market is showing signs of increased volatility, which could trigger a sell-off in speculative biotech stocks like RNAC.
AI-generated arguments based on insider flow, news sentiment and technicals — not financial advice · March 2026
Recent Quarterly Results
| Quarter | Revenue | Net Income | EPS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Q1 2026 | $78,000 | -$39M | -$1.46 |
| Q4 2025 | $947,000 | -$93M | -$3.46 |
| Q3 2025 | $452,000 | -$36M | -$1.38 |
Based on FMP financials and quantitative analysis
RNAC Latest News
No recent news available for RNAC.
RNAC Analyst Consensus
Consensus Rating
Aggregated Buy/Hold/Sell recommendations from Benzinga, Yahoo Finance, and Finnhub for RNAC.
Price Targets
Consensus target: $16.00
RNAC MoonshotScore
What does this score mean?
The MoonshotScore rates RNAC 0-100 on quantitative fundamentals — growth, financial health, valuation, momentum, and risk.
Leadership: Carsten Brunn
CEO
Carsten Brunn is the CEO of Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc. He has extensive experience in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. Before joining Cartesian, he held leadership positions at several companies, including Bayer and Shire. His background includes a strong focus on commercial strategy, business development, and global operations. He has a proven track record of driving growth and innovation in the healthcare sector. Brunn's expertise spans various therapeutic areas, including immunology, oncology, and rare diseases.
Track Record: Under Carsten Brunn's leadership, Cartesian Therapeutics has focused on advancing its clinical-stage pipeline, particularly the SEL-302 program for methylmalonic acidemia. He has also overseen the company's strategic collaborations and partnerships. His focus has been on driving innovation and expanding the company's reach in the biotechnology industry. He manages a team of 66 employees.
Common Questions About RNAC (Healthcare)
What does the AI Score mean for RNAC?
RNAC holds an AI Score of 12/100 (Grade: F). This is an educational research signal, not a buy or sell recommendation. Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing nanoparticle immunomodulatory drugs. Their lead therapeutic gene therapy program, SEL-302, is …
What does Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc. do?
Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing nanoparticle immunomodulatory drugs and gene therapies. Their lead program, SEL-302, is in Phase I clinical trials for methylmalonic acidemia. The company also develops biologic therapies, such as SEL-212, which is in Phase III clinical trials for the treatment of chronic refractory gout.
What do analysts say about RNAC stock?
Analyst coverage of Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc. (RNAC) is limited, reflecting its status as a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company. Key valuation metrics are influenced by the potential of its drug pipeline, particularly SEL-302 and SEL-212. Growth considerations center on the successful completion of clinical trials and regulatory approvals.
What are the main risks for RNAC?
The primary risks for Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc. include the potential for clinical trial failures, regulatory hurdles, and competition from larger pharmaceutical companies. The company's high research and development costs and limited financial resources also pose a significant risk. Additionally, patent challenges or intellectual property disputes could impact the company's ability to commercialize its drug candidates. Successful mitigation of these risks is crucial for Cartesian's long-term success in the biotechnology industry.
What are the key factors to evaluate for RNAC?
Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc. (RNAC) holds an AI score of 12/100 (low). Analysts target $16.00 (+56%). presents a high-risk, high-reward investment opportunity within the biotechnology sector. Not financial advice.
How frequently does RNAC data refresh on this page?
RNAC's price was last updated on Aug 21, 2026 and refreshes on page view during U.S. market hours — it is not a real-time exchange feed. Fundamentals update after quarterly filings; the MoonshotScore recalculates nightly; news aggregates continuously.
What has driven RNAC's recent stock price performance?
Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc. (RNAC) moves on earnings results, analyst revisions, sector rotation, and market sentiment. Notable catalyst: Proprietary nanoparticle technology platform. See the News tab for the latest drivers. Past performance does not predict future results.
Should investors consider RNAC overvalued or undervalued right now?
Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc. (RNAC) has no trailing P/E available here, so lean on price-to-sales and cash flow in the Financials tab. Analysts target $16.00 (+56%) — upside seen. Compare P/E, P/S, and EV/EBITDA against sector peers for a full view.
How do I research RNAC before investing?
Before investing in Cartesian Therapeutics, Inc. (RNAC), research these four areas: (1) the company's revenue model and competitive position (see Company Overview), (2) financial health through revenue growth, margins, and cash flow (see MoonshotScore), (3) analyst consensus ratings and price targets (see Analyst tab), and (4) specific risk factors that could impact the stock (see Risk Factors section).
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Always do your own research and consult a financial advisor.
Official Resources
Data provided for informational purposes only.
- Information is based on publicly available sources and may be subject to change.
- Financial data is based on the most recent filings and may not be current.
- Clinical trial outcomes are inherently uncertain and subject to various factors.