5AM Ventures

5AM Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2002 and headquartered in San Francisco, California, with an additional office in Boston. The firm specializes in seed and early-stage investments, primarily focusing on companies in the life sciences and healthcare sectors, including biopharmaceuticals, medical technology, and advanced research instruments. With a commitment to nurturing innovation, 5AM Ventures plays a pivotal role in supporting emerging companies that are at the forefront of scientific and technological advancements.

David Allison

Partner

John Diekman

Founding Partner

Max Farina

Senior Associate

Mason Freeman

Venture Partner

Michelle Ho

Associate

Michael Klein

Principal

Pengpeng Li

Associate

Deborah Palestrant

Partner

Kush Parmar

Managing Partner

Scott M. Rocklage

Founding Partner

Andrew Schwab

Managing Partner

Katie Bodner Spielberg

Senior Associate

Aniqa Tasnim

Associate

Arthur Tzianabos

Venture Partner

Rathnam Venkat

Analyst

Joseph Victor

Venture Partner

Anna Yaeger

Partner and Head of Public Equities

John Diekman Ph.D

Founding Partner

James Young Ph.D

Venture Partner

Past deals in Nanotechnology

Magnetic Insight

Series B in 2022
Magnetic Insight, Inc. specializes in magnetic particle imaging (MPI), a novel imaging modality that detects iron oxide nanoparticle tracers using time-varying magnetic fields. The company has developed several key products, including the MOMENTUM imager, a pre-clinical MPI solution that produces detailed images through advanced reconstruction techniques, and VivoTrax, a nanoparticle designed for cell tracking and as a blood pool agent in pre-clinical studies. Additionally, the company offers Hyper, a module for localized magnetic hyperthermia, and Relax, which focuses on particle relaxometry. Founded in 2012 and based in Alameda, California, Magnetic Insight is dedicated to enhancing preclinical diagnostics and research by enabling quantitative cell tracking, imaging vascular functions, and detecting metastatic tumors, thereby addressing significant challenges in clinical and translational research.

Radionetics Oncology

Private Equity Round in 2021
Radionetics Oncology is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the discovery and development of innovative radiotherapeutics aimed at treating various oncology indications. The company specializes in creating non-peptide and small molecule agents that facilitate the targeted delivery of therapeutic radioisotopes to solid tumors. This focus positions Radionetics Oncology to address the growing need for advanced treatment options in oncology, enhancing the capabilities of medical professionals in managing cancer.

Expansion Therapeutics

Series B in 2021
Expansion Therapeutics is a drug discovery and development company pursuing the vast potential of small molecule medicines for RNA-mediated diseases.

RareCyte

Series G in 2021
RareCyte, Inc. is a life sciences company based in Seattle, Washington, that specializes in the development of liquid and tissue biopsy analysis platforms aimed at the detection of rare cells. Founded in 2009, RareCyte focuses on providing innovative technologies for the Life Sciences research, drug development, and diagnostic markets. The company offers a range of products, including sample preparation systems, staining kits, and automated fluorescence microscopy instruments. Its AccuCyte system is particularly notable for enabling the unbiased discovery and isolation of circulating tumor cells and circulating endothelial cells from whole blood. RareCyte's technologies are designed to address complex challenges in cancer and cardiovascular disease research, facilitating advancements in precision medicine and non-invasive prenatal testing.

Inipharm

Series A in 2020
Inipharm Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Bellevue, Washington, established in 2018. The company specializes in discovering and developing therapies for severe liver diseases, particularly nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Inipharm focuses on small-molecule drugs that target HSD17B13, a gene linked to various liver conditions. By modulating this gene's activity, Inipharm aims to reduce liver damage, inflammation, and fibrosis, addressing significant unmet medical needs in the treatment of liver diseases.

Nido Biosciences

Venture Round in 2020
Nido Biosciences, Inc., founded in 2018 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, operates in the healthcare services sector. The company specializes in biotechnology and personal health, aiming to innovate within these fields. Currently in stealth mode, Nido Biosciences is focused on developing solutions that address unmet needs in healthcare and personal health management.

NodThera

Series B in 2020
NodThera Limited is a biotechnology company focused on researching and developing novel inhibitors of the NLRP3 inflammasome, which play a critical role in inflammatory and neuroinflammatory diseases. Established in 2016 and headquartered in Little Chesterford, United Kingdom, NodThera operates a laboratory in Seattle, Washington, and a corporate office in Lexington, Massachusetts. The company aims to create therapies targeting a range of conditions including arthritis, atherosclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. By developing potent and selective NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitors, NodThera seeks to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines, enabling more effective treatment options for patients suffering from chronic inflammation-related diseases.

Novome Biotechnologies

Series A in 2020
Novome Biotechnologies, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California, that specializes in engineering bacteria from the human gut to address chronic diseases. Founded in 2015, the company has developed a platform for the controlled colonization of the gut with genetically engineered bacteria, known as Genetically Engineered Microbial Medicines (GEMMs). This innovative approach allows for sustained therapeutic interventions through the precise delivery of microbial activities. Novome's lead preclinical program targets hyperoxaluria by creating a therapeutic strain of bacteria aimed at degrading oxalate to help prevent kidney stone formation. The company is also expanding its synthetic biology platform to explore additional therapeutic applications.

RareCyte

Series F in 2019
RareCyte, Inc. is a life sciences company based in Seattle, Washington, that specializes in the development of liquid and tissue biopsy analysis platforms aimed at the detection of rare cells. Founded in 2009, RareCyte focuses on providing innovative technologies for the Life Sciences research, drug development, and diagnostic markets. The company offers a range of products, including sample preparation systems, staining kits, and automated fluorescence microscopy instruments. Its AccuCyte system is particularly notable for enabling the unbiased discovery and isolation of circulating tumor cells and circulating endothelial cells from whole blood. RareCyte's technologies are designed to address complex challenges in cancer and cardiovascular disease research, facilitating advancements in precision medicine and non-invasive prenatal testing.
Wildcat Discovery Technologies, Inc. is a materials discovery company based in San Diego, California, founded in 2006. The company specializes in the discovery and development of advanced materials for clean tech energy applications, particularly focusing on rechargeable and primary batteries. Wildcat employs unique high-throughput synthesis and testing platforms that allow for the rapid exploration and evaluation of thousands of materials weekly. Its product offerings include metal alloys, ceramics, and materials for lithium-ion battery electrodes, hydrogen storage, and carbon capture, among others. The company also engages in collaborative development projects, partnering with industry leaders across the battery supply chain, including material suppliers and manufacturers in sectors such as automotive and electronics. Wildcat's goal is to enhance material performance, safety, and sustainability, contributing to the advancement of energy technologies.

Nido Biosciences

Venture Round in 2019
Nido Biosciences, Inc., founded in 2018 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, operates in the healthcare services sector. The company specializes in biotechnology and personal health, aiming to innovate within these fields. Currently in stealth mode, Nido Biosciences is focused on developing solutions that address unmet needs in healthcare and personal health management.

Cleave Therapeutics

Series C in 2019
Cleave Therapeutics, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2010. The company specializes in developing novel small-molecule drugs that target valosin-containing protein and other protein-degradation pathways critical for the survival of cancer cells. By focusing on these mechanisms, Cleave Therapeutics aims to create enzyme inhibitors that can effectively treat cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Its research efforts are directed toward discovering innovative therapies that may improve patient outcomes in oncology.

Purigen Biosystems

Series B in 2019
Purigen Biosystems' innovative products offer a truly transformative solution for DNA and RNA purification. Our proprietary approach uses isotachophoresis to separate nucleic acids freely in solution without binding or stripping from a physical surface. Because of this, our technology is agnostic to nucleic acid size or sequence and delivers unbiased results ― even from the more challenging sample types like FFPE tissue or low cell counts. Our Ionic Purification System and Kits combine to provide researchers with a fast, efficient and effective alternative for automated nucleic acid purification.

Halio

Series D in 2019
Kinestral Technologies, Inc. specializes in manufacturing smart-tinting glass, branded as Halio, for both commercial and residential applications. Halio glass can transition from clear to tinted or dark, either automatically or on command, enhancing architectural design by providing versatile solutions for windows, walls, and skylights. This technology offers significant advantages over traditional electrochromic glass, including faster tinting, uniform coloration, and a natural appearance. Kinestral also provides a range of supporting products, such as the Halio Tint Selector, which allows localized control of window tinting, and Halio Cloud, an interface for integrating window operations with building automation systems. Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Hayward, California, Kinestral has established a strategic partnership with Asahi Glass Co., Ltd. Its advanced manufacturing techniques ensure reliable production and timely delivery for projects worldwide, ultimately aiming to improve energy efficiency and comfort in indoor environments.

Magnetic Insight

Series A in 2018
Magnetic Insight, Inc. specializes in magnetic particle imaging (MPI), a novel imaging modality that detects iron oxide nanoparticle tracers using time-varying magnetic fields. The company has developed several key products, including the MOMENTUM imager, a pre-clinical MPI solution that produces detailed images through advanced reconstruction techniques, and VivoTrax, a nanoparticle designed for cell tracking and as a blood pool agent in pre-clinical studies. Additionally, the company offers Hyper, a module for localized magnetic hyperthermia, and Relax, which focuses on particle relaxometry. Founded in 2012 and based in Alameda, California, Magnetic Insight is dedicated to enhancing preclinical diagnostics and research by enabling quantitative cell tracking, imaging vascular functions, and detecting metastatic tumors, thereby addressing significant challenges in clinical and translational research.

Impel Pharmaceuticals

Series D in 2018
Impel NeuroPharma is a medical device company developing a novel drug delivery device that enables drugs to bypass the blood-brain barrier(BBB) using direct nose-to-brain delivery. It is focused on developing transformative therapies that unlock the full potential of therapeutic molecules for people living with CNS disorders with high unmet medical needs. The company was founded in 2008 and is headquartered in Seattle, Washington.

BlueLight Therapeutics

Series C in 2018
Biodesy has developed a unique and highly sensitive means of detecting conformational change in proteins and other biological molecules. Our technology, based on a phenomenon called ‘second-harmonic generation’ (SHG), can monitor structural change at any site within a protein, in real time.

Nohla Therapeutics

Series B in 2018
Nohla Therapeutics' singular passion is the development of best-in-class ex vivo expanded universal donor cellular therapies to transform the treatment of patients with cancer and other life threatening illnesses. Our products are manufactured and cryopreserved on an ongoing basis allowing for a bank of doses that are available for immediate (on demand) use. This is tremendously advantageous with regards to the ease and timing of treatment, the ability to provide repeated dosing for immune-oncology indications and reduction in patient risk and cost relative to other cell therapies.

NodThera

Series A in 2018
NodThera Limited is a biotechnology company focused on researching and developing novel inhibitors of the NLRP3 inflammasome, which play a critical role in inflammatory and neuroinflammatory diseases. Established in 2016 and headquartered in Little Chesterford, United Kingdom, NodThera operates a laboratory in Seattle, Washington, and a corporate office in Lexington, Massachusetts. The company aims to create therapies targeting a range of conditions including arthritis, atherosclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. By developing potent and selective NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitors, NodThera seeks to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines, enabling more effective treatment options for patients suffering from chronic inflammation-related diseases.

Precision NanoSystem

Series B in 2018
Precision Nanosystems develops tools and processes for the development and manufacture of nanoparticles for use as medicines and in medical research. It offers NanoAssemblr benchtop instrument for prototyping of nanoparticles, as well as for the development of nanoparticle-based drugs delivering RNA, small-molecule, and protein therapeutics. The company also provides Neuro9Kit for the study of gene function in neurons and glial cells, as well as potent delivery to primary cells; Test9Kit for the study of gene function in various cell types; and Hepato9Kit for the study of gene function in the liver. In addition, it provides instruments, reagents, and services to the life sciences researchers.

Nohla Therapeutics

Series B in 2018
Nohla Therapeutics' singular passion is the development of best-in-class ex vivo expanded universal donor cellular therapies to transform the treatment of patients with cancer and other life threatening illnesses. Our products are manufactured and cryopreserved on an ongoing basis allowing for a bank of doses that are available for immediate (on demand) use. This is tremendously advantageous with regards to the ease and timing of treatment, the ability to provide repeated dosing for immune-oncology indications and reduction in patient risk and cost relative to other cell therapies.

Novome Biotechnologies

Seed Round in 2018
Novome Biotechnologies, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California, that specializes in engineering bacteria from the human gut to address chronic diseases. Founded in 2015, the company has developed a platform for the controlled colonization of the gut with genetically engineered bacteria, known as Genetically Engineered Microbial Medicines (GEMMs). This innovative approach allows for sustained therapeutic interventions through the precise delivery of microbial activities. Novome's lead preclinical program targets hyperoxaluria by creating a therapeutic strain of bacteria aimed at degrading oxalate to help prevent kidney stone formation. The company is also expanding its synthetic biology platform to explore additional therapeutic applications.

Expansion Therapeutics

Series A in 2018
Expansion Therapeutics is a drug discovery and development company pursuing the vast potential of small molecule medicines for RNA-mediated diseases.

Nouscom

Series B in 2017
Nouscom is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative immunotherapy solutions for cancer treatment. Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, with operations in Rome, Italy, the company specializes in engineered viral vector vaccines. Their platform is designed to express long strings of tumor neoantigens, facilitating the induction of strong antitumor T-cell responses to enhance cancer-specific cellular immunity. The leadership team, including experienced entrepreneurs like Prof. Riccardo Cortese, brings a wealth of expertise from previous successful ventures in the field of oncolytic and genetic vaccines.

RareCyte

Venture Round in 2017
RareCyte, Inc. is a life sciences company based in Seattle, Washington, that specializes in the development of liquid and tissue biopsy analysis platforms aimed at the detection of rare cells. Founded in 2009, RareCyte focuses on providing innovative technologies for the Life Sciences research, drug development, and diagnostic markets. The company offers a range of products, including sample preparation systems, staining kits, and automated fluorescence microscopy instruments. Its AccuCyte system is particularly notable for enabling the unbiased discovery and isolation of circulating tumor cells and circulating endothelial cells from whole blood. RareCyte's technologies are designed to address complex challenges in cancer and cardiovascular disease research, facilitating advancements in precision medicine and non-invasive prenatal testing.

Halio

Series C in 2017
Kinestral Technologies, Inc. specializes in manufacturing smart-tinting glass, branded as Halio, for both commercial and residential applications. Halio glass can transition from clear to tinted or dark, either automatically or on command, enhancing architectural design by providing versatile solutions for windows, walls, and skylights. This technology offers significant advantages over traditional electrochromic glass, including faster tinting, uniform coloration, and a natural appearance. Kinestral also provides a range of supporting products, such as the Halio Tint Selector, which allows localized control of window tinting, and Halio Cloud, an interface for integrating window operations with building automation systems. Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Hayward, California, Kinestral has established a strategic partnership with Asahi Glass Co., Ltd. Its advanced manufacturing techniques ensure reliable production and timely delivery for projects worldwide, ultimately aiming to improve energy efficiency and comfort in indoor environments.

Impel Pharmaceuticals

Series C in 2016
Impel NeuroPharma is a medical device company developing a novel drug delivery device that enables drugs to bypass the blood-brain barrier(BBB) using direct nose-to-brain delivery. It is focused on developing transformative therapies that unlock the full potential of therapeutic molecules for people living with CNS disorders with high unmet medical needs. The company was founded in 2008 and is headquartered in Seattle, Washington.

Nohla Therapeutics

Series A in 2016
Nohla Therapeutics' singular passion is the development of best-in-class ex vivo expanded universal donor cellular therapies to transform the treatment of patients with cancer and other life threatening illnesses. Our products are manufactured and cryopreserved on an ongoing basis allowing for a bank of doses that are available for immediate (on demand) use. This is tremendously advantageous with regards to the ease and timing of treatment, the ability to provide repeated dosing for immune-oncology indications and reduction in patient risk and cost relative to other cell therapies.

Chrono Therapeutics

Series B in 2016
Chrono Therapeutics Inc., a digital transdermal drug delivery company, develops SmartStop, a digital nicotine replacement therapy. Its wearable solution tailors the timing and dose sizes of drugs, preempts predictable peak disease, and addiction symptoms with a device. The company was incorporated in 2003 and is based in Hayward, California.

Cleave Therapeutics

Series B in 2016
Cleave Therapeutics, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2010. The company specializes in developing novel small-molecule drugs that target valosin-containing protein and other protein-degradation pathways critical for the survival of cancer cells. By focusing on these mechanisms, Cleave Therapeutics aims to create enzyme inhibitors that can effectively treat cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Its research efforts are directed toward discovering innovative therapies that may improve patient outcomes in oncology.

Purigen Biosystems

Series A in 2016
Purigen Biosystems' innovative products offer a truly transformative solution for DNA and RNA purification. Our proprietary approach uses isotachophoresis to separate nucleic acids freely in solution without binding or stripping from a physical surface. Because of this, our technology is agnostic to nucleic acid size or sequence and delivers unbiased results ― even from the more challenging sample types like FFPE tissue or low cell counts. Our Ionic Purification System and Kits combine to provide researchers with a fast, efficient and effective alternative for automated nucleic acid purification.

BlueLight Therapeutics

Series B in 2016
Biodesy has developed a unique and highly sensitive means of detecting conformational change in proteins and other biological molecules. Our technology, based on a phenomenon called ‘second-harmonic generation’ (SHG), can monitor structural change at any site within a protein, in real time.

Precision NanoSystem

Series A in 2015
Precision Nanosystems develops tools and processes for the development and manufacture of nanoparticles for use as medicines and in medical research. It offers NanoAssemblr benchtop instrument for prototyping of nanoparticles, as well as for the development of nanoparticle-based drugs delivering RNA, small-molecule, and protein therapeutics. The company also provides Neuro9Kit for the study of gene function in neurons and glial cells, as well as potent delivery to primary cells; Test9Kit for the study of gene function in various cell types; and Hepato9Kit for the study of gene function in the liver. In addition, it provides instruments, reagents, and services to the life sciences researchers.

Chrono Therapeutics

Series A in 2014
Chrono Therapeutics Inc., a digital transdermal drug delivery company, develops SmartStop, a digital nicotine replacement therapy. Its wearable solution tailors the timing and dose sizes of drugs, preempts predictable peak disease, and addiction symptoms with a device. The company was incorporated in 2003 and is based in Hayward, California.

BlueLight Therapeutics

Series A in 2013
Biodesy has developed a unique and highly sensitive means of detecting conformational change in proteins and other biological molecules. Our technology, based on a phenomenon called ‘second-harmonic generation’ (SHG), can monitor structural change at any site within a protein, in real time.

Novira Therapeutics

Series A in 2013
Novira Therapeutics, Inc., a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, discovers and develops antiviral drugs for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B infection. It develops core and cccDNA inhibitor anti-HBV drugs. Novira Therapeutics, Inc. was formerly known as Molecmo Nanobiotechnologies, Inc. The company was incorporated in 2006 and is based in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. As of December 4, 2015, Novira Therapeutics, Inc. operates as a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson.

Halio

Venture Round in 2012
Kinestral Technologies, Inc. specializes in manufacturing smart-tinting glass, branded as Halio, for both commercial and residential applications. Halio glass can transition from clear to tinted or dark, either automatically or on command, enhancing architectural design by providing versatile solutions for windows, walls, and skylights. This technology offers significant advantages over traditional electrochromic glass, including faster tinting, uniform coloration, and a natural appearance. Kinestral also provides a range of supporting products, such as the Halio Tint Selector, which allows localized control of window tinting, and Halio Cloud, an interface for integrating window operations with building automation systems. Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Hayward, California, Kinestral has established a strategic partnership with Asahi Glass Co., Ltd. Its advanced manufacturing techniques ensure reliable production and timely delivery for projects worldwide, ultimately aiming to improve energy efficiency and comfort in indoor environments.

Cleave Therapeutics

Series A in 2011
Cleave Therapeutics, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2010. The company specializes in developing novel small-molecule drugs that target valosin-containing protein and other protein-degradation pathways critical for the survival of cancer cells. By focusing on these mechanisms, Cleave Therapeutics aims to create enzyme inhibitors that can effectively treat cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Its research efforts are directed toward discovering innovative therapies that may improve patient outcomes in oncology.

Semprus BioSciences

Series B in 2010
Semprus BioSciences is a biomedical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, specializing in advanced medical device technology. The company focuses on developing a vascular access catheter featuring a novel single surface modification aimed at reducing both microbial adherence and thrombus accumulation throughout the device's lifespan. Their innovative approach involves implantable and permanently antimicrobial coating technology, which is applicable to a wide range of device sizes, shapes, and materials. Semprus has successfully raised a total of $28.5 million in equity financing, with significant investments from notable firms, including the corporate venture capital arm of GlaxoSmithKline and Foundation Medical Partners.

Anaphore

Series A in 2009
Anaphore (formerly ImmunoNewCo) is developing a new class of protein therapeutics to address significant unmet medical needs for patients with serious or life-threatening diseases.

Rennovia

Series A in 2009
Rennovia Inc. is a specialty chemical company that develops innovative processes for producing chemicals from renewable feedstocks. Founded in 2009 and based in Santa Clara, California, the company focuses on creating catalysts and methods for generating biobased chemicals such as glucaric acid, adipic acid, hexamethylenediamine, and 1,6-hexanediol. These products serve a diverse range of markets, including nylon engineering resins, non-phthalate plasticizers, biodegradable cleaners, and food ingredients. Rennovia's offerings also extend to applications in coatings, adhesives, sealants, and elastomers, catering to consumer products like carpets, automotive parts, and apparel. The company emphasizes cost-effective production through its advanced chemical catalytic process technology, enabling the sustainable manufacture of bio-based chemicals.

Anaphore

Series A in 2009
Anaphore (formerly ImmunoNewCo) is developing a new class of protein therapeutics to address significant unmet medical needs for patients with serious or life-threatening diseases.

Semprus BioSciences

Series A in 2008
Semprus BioSciences is a biomedical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, specializing in advanced medical device technology. The company focuses on developing a vascular access catheter featuring a novel single surface modification aimed at reducing both microbial adherence and thrombus accumulation throughout the device's lifespan. Their innovative approach involves implantable and permanently antimicrobial coating technology, which is applicable to a wide range of device sizes, shapes, and materials. Semprus has successfully raised a total of $28.5 million in equity financing, with significant investments from notable firms, including the corporate venture capital arm of GlaxoSmithKline and Foundation Medical Partners.

Anaphore

Venture Round in 2008
Anaphore (formerly ImmunoNewCo) is developing a new class of protein therapeutics to address significant unmet medical needs for patients with serious or life-threatening diseases.

Anaphore

Venture Round in 2008
Anaphore (formerly ImmunoNewCo) is developing a new class of protein therapeutics to address significant unmet medical needs for patients with serious or life-threatening diseases.

Miikana Therapeutics

Series A in 2004
Miikana Therapeutics is a private held biotechnology company. It is a biopharmaceutical company focuses on the discovery and development of medicines for the treatment of cancer.

Miikana Therapeutics

Series A in 2003
Miikana Therapeutics is a private held biotechnology company. It is a biopharmaceutical company focuses on the discovery and development of medicines for the treatment of cancer.

Ilypsa

Series A in 2003
It discovers and develops renal care pharmaceutical products. It develops non-absorbed polymeric phosphate and potassium binder compounds to treat chronic kidney diseases. The company, formerly known as Symyx Therapeutics, Inc. was founded in 2002 and is based in Santa Clara, California.
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