Alexandria Venture Investments, LLC is a venture capital firm established in 1996 and located in Pasadena, California. As a subsidiary of Alexandria Real Estate Equities, the firm specializes in seed, early-stage, and growth capital investments primarily within the healthcare sector. Its focus areas include biopharma, diagnostics, life sciences, research tools, agrifood technology, and technology. By leveraging its extensive industry expertise and a robust network of relationships with leading investors and scientific advisors, Alexandria Venture Investments aims to support innovative companies that are developing breakthrough technologies and therapies to enhance human health.
Meiogenix is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative breeding technologies aimed at unlocking the untapped genetic diversity of various organisms. By modulating the frequency of homologous recombination in eukaryotic cells, the company enhances natural biodiversity. This approach enables the creation of new products that can help tackle pressing global food and industrial challenges. Through its advancements, Meiogenix contributes to the exploration and application of genetic resources, ultimately aiming to improve agricultural and industrial outputs.
Autoimmunity BioSolutions
Seed Round in 2024
Autoimmunity BioSolutions is working on a next-generation immuno-corrective therapy that restores normal immune function in a genetically defined subgroup of autoimmune patients, where the autoimmune pathology is driven by an SNP.
OverT Bio
Seed Round in 2024
OverT Bio is a biotechnology company focused on developing cell therapies for cancer treatment. The company specializes in identifying and creating novel genetic modifications that empower immune cells to navigate and overcome the barriers posed by tumors. By enhancing the effectiveness and durability of immunotherapies, OverT Bio aims to advance the healthcare field's ability to identify and ultimately cure cancer.
Elo Life Systems
Series A in 2024
Elo Life Systems is a biotechnology company dedicated to enhancing human health and wellness through innovative food solutions. The company aims to connect food, agriculture, and health by addressing challenges related to agricultural productivity, nutritional needs, food security, and overall wellness. Elo employs advanced techniques such as precision breeding, genomics, data analytics, and machine learning to develop healthier food alternatives. By focusing on replacing sugar and artificial sweeteners, Elo strives to empower consumers to enjoy their favorite foods while leading healthier lives. Through strategic partnerships within the food systems value chain, the company seeks to create sustainable solutions that benefit both individuals and communities.
Tr1x
Series A in 2024
Tr1x is a biotechnology company focused on developing cellular therapies for the treatment of autoimmune disorders. The company leverages its proprietary platform to create advanced cell therapy products aimed at recalibrating the immune system and restoring homeostasis. By exploring genetic engineering and T-cell biology, Tr1x seeks to develop scalable and effective cellular cures that target inflammation and autoimmunity. Its mission is to provide innovative solutions for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, ultimately transforming the lives of patients affected by these conditions.
Tome Biosciences
Series A in 2023
Tome Biosciences is a biotechnology company specializing in programmable gene insertion technology. Utilizing CRISPR, the company develops methods to insert genetic sequences of any size at various locations within any genome. This innovative approach aims to enhance the ability to detect and eliminate deoxyribonucleic acid from similar bacteriophages during infections. By advancing cell and genome engineering, Tome Biosciences seeks to provide effective therapeutic solutions for patients, paving the way for significant advancements in genetic medicine.
Ability Biologics
Seed Round in 2023
Ability Biologics is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative immune-modulating biotherapeutics to meet the pressing medical needs of patients suffering from cancer and autoimmune diseases. The company leverages an advanced platform that employs continuously learning artificial intelligence and a comprehensive database of antigen-antibody interactions. This technology enables the creation of potent and selective antibody therapeutics, aimed at addressing significant gaps in treatment options for these challenging health conditions. By prioritizing tailored solutions, Ability Biologics seeks to enhance patient outcomes and contribute to advancements in the field of immunotherapy.
Ring Therapeutics
Series C in 2023
Ring Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on developing gene therapies through its innovative Anellovector platform. This platform leverages the biology of the human commensal virome to create redosable and targetable DNA therapies that address several limitations of existing gene therapies, such as restricted access to various tissues, risks associated with genomic integration, and issues with tolerability. Founded in 2017, the company aims to expand the applications of gene therapy beyond traditional gene replacement, targeting a wide range of conditions including genetic disorders, ophthalmology, oncology, and metabolic diseases. By doing so, Ring Therapeutics seeks to provide healthcare solutions that allow for a broader array of therapeutic modalities and improved patient outcomes.
Paratus Sciences
Series A in 2023
Paratus Sciences is a biotechnology company focused on enhancing human health and health security through the study of bat biology. By exploring the unique aspects of the bat genome, the company aims to identify and develop therapeutics for a variety of diseases. Paratus Sciences seeks to unlock the secrets of bat biology to facilitate innovative treatments, ultimately helping patients combat the health challenges they encounter.
Garuda Therapeutics
Series B in 2023
Garuda Therapeutics is a biotech company focused on developing off-the-shelf hematopoietic stem cell therapies aimed at treating life-threatening diseases, particularly those affecting blood, bone marrow, immunity, and metabolism. The company is dedicated to eliminating the reliance on donor or patient cells for blood stem cell transplants by leveraging its innovative platform technology to generate self-renewing blood stem cells. This approach is designed to ensure rapid and broad access to consistent, durable, HLA-compatible, and transgene-free blood stem cell therapies for patients. Garuda Therapeutics employs advanced methodologies, including the use of zebrafish, mice, and human-induced pluripotent stem cells, to clone and analyze novel genes and mechanisms critical for blood formation, ultimately developing mechanism-based therapies that address unmet medical needs.
IgGenix
Series B in 2023
IgGenix is a biotechnology company, directly address food and other severe allergies by re-engineering key antibodies involved in the allergic cascade. IgGenix isolates and transforms allergen-specific IgE antibodies into IgG antibodies that are designed to alleviate and possibly prevent the allergic cascade.
Cajal Neuroscience
Series A in 2022
Cajal Neuroscience is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. By integrating human genetics, functional genomics, and advanced microscopy, the company aims to identify novel therapeutic targets. Cajal utilizes a range of cutting-edge technologies, including high-throughput functional genomics and multi-omics approaches, to screen for targets that significantly influence the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. This comprehensive methodology supports the development of precision medicine, ultimately aiding healthcare professionals in treating patients affected by these conditions.
Rezo Therapeutics
Series A in 2022
Rezo Therapeutics is a biotechnology company that focuses on developing precision therapeutics by mapping disease networks. Utilizing its proprietary Sequence to Systems to Drugs (SSD) platform, Rezo integrates various technologies, including proteomics, genetics, structural biology, chemistry, and bioinformatics, to create comprehensive molecular maps of diseases. This innovative approach enhances the identification of novel targets and therapies, particularly in oncology, where Rezo initially concentrates its efforts. The company aims to expand its therapeutic focus through collaborations and partnerships, positioning itself at the forefront of advancing treatment options across multiple disease areas.
Novome Biotechnologies
Series B in 2022
Novome Biotechnologies, Inc. is a biotechnology company that focuses on engineering bacteria from the human gut to develop innovative treatments for chronic diseases. Its proprietary platform, which allows for the controlled colonization of the gut with genetically engineered microbial medicines (GEMMs), is designed to provide sustained therapeutic effects. Novome's lead preclinical program targets hyperoxaluria by developing a therapeutic strain of bacteria that degrades oxalate, thereby preventing kidney stone formation. The company aims to leverage its synthetic biology tools to expand its applications into additional health conditions, enhancing its ability to deliver precise therapeutic activities through engineered gut microbiota. Founded in 2015, Novome is headquartered in South San Francisco, California.
Cartography Biosciences
Series A in 2022
Cartography Biosciences is a biotechnology company focused on developing cancer therapies through precision medicine. The company has created a platform-based cell therapy that utilizes single-cell analysis to identify innovative CAR-T targets. This approach allows for the design of cancer immunotherapies tailored to the safest and most effective targets. By combining molecular biology and computational methods, Cartography enables clients to advance their studies in the development of these targeted treatments, aiming to improve outcomes for cancer patients.
Affini-T Therapeutics
Venture Round in 2022
Affini-T Therapeutics is a biotechnology company developing T-cell therapies for patients suffering from cancer. Affini-T uses a validated platform to select high-affinity T cell receptors specific to oncogenic mutations to pioneer cutting-edge solid tumor therapies. Affini-T leverages gene editing and synthetic biology to engineer novel T-cell therapies designed to eradicate tumors.
Eclipse BioInnovations
Series A in 2022
Eclipse Bioinnovations, founded in 2017 based on technology from the University of California, San Diego, specializes in RNA genomics. The company aims to advance RNA medicines and scientific discovery through its innovative platform technologies. Eclipse has developed eCLIP, a unique and efficient method for identifying RNA binding protein partners and gene maps. Its suite of RNA genomics technologies includes eCLIP-RBP for mapping RNA binding proteins, miR-eCLIP for studying the miR-interactome, m6A-eCLIP for RNA modifications, End-Seq for 5' and 3' mapping, and FLI-Seq for facilitating CRISPR library preparation. Eclipse offers these products as both services and kits, tailored for biopharma companies and academic researchers, enabling them to enhance their research and develop new therapies for various human diseases.
Meiogenix
Series A in 2021
Meiogenix is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative breeding technologies aimed at unlocking the untapped genetic diversity of various organisms. By modulating the frequency of homologous recombination in eukaryotic cells, the company enhances natural biodiversity. This approach enables the creation of new products that can help tackle pressing global food and industrial challenges. Through its advancements, Meiogenix contributes to the exploration and application of genetic resources, ultimately aiming to improve agricultural and industrial outputs.
Acrigen Biosciences
Seed Round in 2021
Acrigen Biosciences is dedicated to making gene editing safe. It develops technologies to improve efficiency and enhance the safety of CRISPR-Cas based gene editing. CRISPR-Cas system which enables the precise enzymatic editing of genes is one of the most exciting and promising techniques to be developed in the last few years with the capability to prevent or cure many devastating diseases. It was founded in 2019 and is headquartered in Berkeley, California.
Kytopen
Series A in 2021
Kytopen is a developer of a cell therapy platform that focuses on the non-viral delivery of molecules into challenging immune cells. The company's innovative technology integrates microfluidics and automation to streamline the delivery process, making it faster, easier, and more cost-effective. Kytopen's automated cell engineering platform enables researchers to produce healthy and functional engineered cells rapidly, maintaining their health and functionality. By combining continuous fluid flow with electric fields, Kytopen enhances the efficiency of payload delivery to primary cells, supporting advancements in biology and paving the way for innovative cell and gene therapies.
Disc Medicine
Series B in 2021
Disc Medicine, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, founded in 2017. The company focuses on developing human genetics-based therapeutics aimed at addressing ineffective red blood cell production in hematologic diseases. Its innovative pipeline includes therapies such as bitopertin for treating erythropoietic porphyrias and Diamond-Blackfan anemia. Disc Medicine targets the hepcidin metabolism axis and aims to modify fundamental biological pathways related to red blood cell formation and function, including heme biosynthesis and iron homeostasis. Through its portfolio of clinical and preclinical product candidates, the company strives to transform the lives of patients suffering from severe hematologic disorders.
Thryv Therapeutics
Series A in 2021
Thryv Therapeutics is a precision medicine company focused on developing innovative therapies for Long QT Syndrome and various arrhythmias. The company employs a precision medicine approach to address both genetic and drug-induced long QT syndrome, atrial fibrillation, and treatment-resistant cancers. Thryv Therapeutics is dedicated to creating potent and selective inhibitors of Serum Glucocorticoid Inducible Kinase, aiming to reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death and enhance the quality of life for affected patients. Through its targeted therapeutic development, the company seeks to provide effective solutions for serious cardiovascular and oncological conditions.
Deep Genomics
Series C in 2021
Deep Genomics recruits from among the top 1% of recent graduates and seasoned experts at the intersection of genomics, drug development and AI.
IgGenix
Series A in 2021
IgGenix is a biotechnology company, directly address food and other severe allergies by re-engineering key antibodies involved in the allergic cascade. IgGenix isolates and transforms allergen-specific IgE antibodies into IgG antibodies that are designed to alleviate and possibly prevent the allergic cascade.
Wugen
Series B in 2021
Wugen is focused on developing off-the-shelf cellular therapies for cancer, particularly utilizing natural killer (NK) cells and CAR-T cell therapies. The company enhances NK cells obtained from healthy donors to improve their ability to target and eliminate cancer cells. Wugen's innovative approach includes a proprietary platform that leverages advanced genomic engineering to create next-generation memory NK cell therapies. These therapies specifically aim to address various types of malignancies, including solid tumors, acute myeloid leukemia, and T-cell malignancies, thereby providing new treatment options for patients facing life-threatening cancers.
Cyrus Biotechnology
Venture Round in 2021
Cyrus Biotechnology, Inc. specializes in developing software tools for protein structure prediction and design, aiming to enhance research in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals. The company's flagship product, Rosetta, allows for the design of biologically active proteins that can address critical health issues, such as brain cancer treatment and gluten breakdown in Celiac Disease patients. Additionally, Cyrus Bench offers an enterprise version of the Rosetta toolkit, equipped with a variety of bio-molecular computation tools. The company also provides Cyrus CryoEM services, which include advanced structure refinement and model building. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Seattle, Washington, Cyrus Biotechnology serves a diverse clientele, including pharmaceutical companies, venture-backed startups, and mid-sized biotech firms focused on therapeutic discovery and industrial biotechnology innovation.
miRecule
Venture Round in 2021
miRecule, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Gaithersburg, Maryland, established in 2016. The company specializes in developing a microRNA-based drug discovery platform, DREAmiR, aimed at addressing challenges in cancer therapy and muscular dystrophy. This innovative platform leverages genomic and outcome data from thousands of patients to identify genetic abnormalities associated with diseases. miRecule formulates RNA therapeutics that can directly target and correct these genetic issues. The platform integrates genomic sequencing, expression, and prognostic data from numerous cancer patients with high throughput screening of microRNA candidates for replacement therapy. miRecule is focused on creating highly tailored therapeutics, with lead programs targeting Head & Neck Cancer and Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy, ultimately striving to improve the quality of life for patients suffering from debilitating conditions.
TwinStrand Biosciences
Series B in 2021
TwinStrand Biosciences specializes in advanced DNA sequencing technologies, significantly enhancing the accuracy of mutation detection beyond conventional methods. Their proprietary Duplex Sequencing technology enables the identification of mutations that are often undetectable by standard approaches, making it valuable in various fields such as oncology, infectious disease, organ transplantation, reproductive and genetic health, and forensics. The company is dedicated to improving diagnostic capabilities and advancing research through its innovative sequencing solutions. TwinStrand is also involved in biopharmaceutical development, focusing on the discovery and commercialization of biological drugs aimed at treating life-threatening diseases, particularly cancers. Their product pipeline includes recombinant protein-based prodrugs designed for activation by matrix metalloproteinases associated with solid tumors.
Molecular Assemblies
Series A in 2021
Molecular Assemblies, Inc. is a San Diego-based company specializing in enzymatic DNA synthesis technology, which facilitates the development of DNA-based products across various industries. Founded in 2013, the company focuses on creating long, high-quality, sequence-specific DNA in a reliable, affordable, and sustainable manner, inspired by natural processes. Its technology has applications in industrial synthetic biology, personalized therapeutics, precision diagnostics, information storage, nanotechnology, and DNA electronics. The firm boasts a skilled executive and scientific team, supported by a robust intellectual property portfolio. Molecular Assemblies has garnered investments from a range of venture capital sources, indicating strong interest in its innovative approach to DNA synthesis.
SeQure Dx
Venture Round in 2021
SeQure Dx specializes in providing safety data related to CRISPR gene editing therapies, focusing on both on-target and off-target effects. The company develops genomics diagnostic technologies that facilitate target profiling for gene editing, supporting the discovery, clinical development, and diagnostic processes. Its core technologies are designed to identify potential off-target sites prior to the initiation of therapy, ensuring comprehensive confirmation of actual genetic edits. This capability empowers gene editing therapeutics developers, physicians, and patients by enhancing the safety and efficacy of gene editing treatments.
Ensoma
Series A in 2021
Ensoma is a biotechnology company focused on advancing genomic medicine through its innovative in vivo approach using Engenious vectors. These vectors are engineered to facilitate the delivery of gene modification technologies directly to blood and immune cells, including T cells, B cells, and myeloid cells, without the need for stem cell collection or harmful pre-treatment procedures like chemotherapy. This unique capability allows Ensoma to administer therapies through a single injection, making it possible to deliver effective treatments in outpatient settings and areas with limited access to advanced healthcare systems. By streamlining the process of gene therapy, Ensoma aims to enhance the accessibility and curative potential of genomic medicine for patients with various diseases.
Vera Therapeutics
Series C in 2021
Vera Therapeutics, a biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California, specializes in developing innovative biologic therapeutics aimed at treating serious immunological diseases and genetic disorders. Founded in 2016 and renamed in March 2020, the company's research focuses on transformative treatments that can significantly improve patient outcomes. One of its key product candidates is atacicept, a fusion protein designed for self-administration via a weekly subcutaneous injection. Atacicept works by inhibiting both B lymphocyte stimulator and a proliferation-inducing ligand, which are involved in the production of autoantibodies that contribute to various autoimmune diseases. Additionally, Vera Therapeutics is exploring gene-editing technologies that hold the potential to address conditions such as sickle cell disease and cystic fibrosis.
LEXEO Therapeutics
Series A in 2021
LEXEO Therapeutics is a biotechnology company that specializes in the development of gene therapies, particularly those utilizing adeno-associated virus (AAV) technology. The company’s pipeline includes both rare and non-rare monogenic diseases, with a strong emphasis on hereditary and acquired conditions that present significant unmet medical needs. LEXEO's lead programs and preclinical candidates are primarily developed in collaboration with Weill Cornell Medicine’s Department of Genetic Medicine. The company aims to advance its clinical programs toward commercialization while maintaining an ongoing research partnership with Weill Cornell to enhance its preclinical efforts. Through its innovative approach, LEXEO Therapeutics seeks to transform the treatment landscape for diseases that impose a substantial burden on patients and society.
Encodia
Series C in 2020
Encodia, Inc., founded in 2015 and headquartered in San Diego, California, specializes in proteomics research and the development of innovative protein analysis technology. The company offers a platform that utilizes reverse-translation technology to convert peptide sequence information into DNA libraries, facilitating scalable and efficient protein sequencing. This capability enables researchers to analyze protein samples comprehensively, thereby advancing the field of personalized medicine. By democratizing access to detailed information on cellular processes, Encodia aims to accelerate the discovery of novel approaches to addressing challenging diseases.
Korro Bio
Series A in 2020
Korro Bio Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, that specializes in developing nucleic acid-based therapeutics aimed at editing RNA to treat rare and prevalent diseases. Founded in 2018, the company has created a proprietary platform that allows for efficient and selective RNA editing, leveraging natural processes found in multicellular organisms. This innovative approach enables precise modifications to messenger RNA, allowing for targeted changes in protein structure and function across various tissues. By focusing on RNA instead of DNA, Korro Bio aims to enhance the precision and adaptability of genetic medicines, expanding their potential applications in treating a range of medical conditions.
Frequency Therapeutics
Post in 2020
Frequency Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Woburn, Massachusetts, that aims to repair or reverse damage from various degenerative diseases by utilizing the body’s own biological mechanisms. The company employs a Progenitor Cell Activation approach, which involves the use of small molecules to activate progenitor cells and promote the regeneration of functional tissue. Its leading product candidate, FX-322, is currently undergoing phase 2a clinical trials to address the underlying causes of sensorineural hearing loss. In addition to hearing loss, Frequency Therapeutics is also exploring treatments for a range of other conditions, including multiple sclerosis and diseases affecting muscle, the gastrointestinal tract, skin, and bone. The company has established a collaboration with Astellas Pharma for the development and commercialization of FX-322. Founded in 2014, Frequency Therapeutics focuses on disease modification without the complexities associated with genetic engineering.
Affinia Therapeutics
Series A in 2020
Affinia Therapeutics Inc. is focused on developing gene therapies for various diseases, particularly those affecting the muscles and central nervous system. The company specializes in creating adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors, leveraging advanced techniques in synthetic and systems biology, as well as high-throughput screening and tissue and single-cell resolution. Founded in 2019 and based in Waltham, Massachusetts, Affinia aims to address significant unmet medical needs by providing rationally designed gene therapies with improved properties. The company's innovative approach seeks to offer effective treatments for devastating conditions that currently lack adequate therapeutic options.
Redpin Therapeutics
Series A in 2020
Redpin Therapeutics is a preclinical stage gene therapy company based in New York, founded in 2017. The company specializes in developing a proprietary chemogenetics platform designed to create targeted cell therapies for intractable diseases of the nervous system. Its innovative approach combines principles from synthetic biology, gene therapy, and conventional pharmacotherapy, utilizing ion channels as neuromodulation tools. This enables selective activation or inhibition of disease-causing neurons, allowing for precise regulation of dysfunctional neuronal circuits while sparing healthy cells. Through its research and development efforts, Redpin Therapeutics aims to provide new treatment options for challenging neurological conditions.
Kallyope
Series C in 2020
Kallyope Inc. is a biotechnology company based in New York City that focuses on the gut-brain axis to develop innovative therapeutics and consumer products aimed at enhancing human health. Founded in 2014, Kallyope employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating technologies such as sequencing, computational biology, neural imaging, and human genetics to deepen the understanding of gut-brain biology. This comprehensive understanding enables the company to create effective and well-tolerated oral medications targeting various health issues, including diabetes, obesity, gut disorders, inflammatory diseases, migraines, and allergies. With a team of experienced scientists and a strong foundation in drug discovery, Kallyope aims to address significant unmet medical needs through its research and development efforts.
Novome Biotechnologies
Series A in 2020
Novome Biotechnologies, Inc. is a biotechnology company that focuses on engineering bacteria from the human gut to develop innovative treatments for chronic diseases. Its proprietary platform, which allows for the controlled colonization of the gut with genetically engineered microbial medicines (GEMMs), is designed to provide sustained therapeutic effects. Novome's lead preclinical program targets hyperoxaluria by developing a therapeutic strain of bacteria that degrades oxalate, thereby preventing kidney stone formation. The company aims to leverage its synthetic biology tools to expand its applications into additional health conditions, enhancing its ability to deliver precise therapeutic activities through engineered gut microbiota. Founded in 2015, Novome is headquartered in South San Francisco, California.
TwinStrand Biosciences
Series A in 2020
TwinStrand Biosciences specializes in advanced DNA sequencing technologies, significantly enhancing the accuracy of mutation detection beyond conventional methods. Their proprietary Duplex Sequencing technology enables the identification of mutations that are often undetectable by standard approaches, making it valuable in various fields such as oncology, infectious disease, organ transplantation, reproductive and genetic health, and forensics. The company is dedicated to improving diagnostic capabilities and advancing research through its innovative sequencing solutions. TwinStrand is also involved in biopharmaceutical development, focusing on the discovery and commercialization of biological drugs aimed at treating life-threatening diseases, particularly cancers. Their product pipeline includes recombinant protein-based prodrugs designed for activation by matrix metalloproteinases associated with solid tumors.
Triplet Therapeutics
Series A in 2019
Triplet Therapeutics, Inc. is focused on developing innovative therapies for repeat expansion disorders, which include conditions such as Huntington’s disease, myotonic dystrophy, and spinocerebellar ataxias. Founded in 2018 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company aims to address these disorders at their source by utilizing a unique approach that involves targeting the DNA Damage Response pathway through a single oligonucleotide. This biotherapeutic technology is designed to provide a comprehensive treatment solution for multiple repeat expansion disorders, enabling healthcare professionals to better manage these complex conditions.
Aspen Neuroscience
Seed Round in 2019
Aspen Neuroscience, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to create patient-specific therapies for neurological conditions, particularly Parkinson's disease. Founded in 2018 and based in San Diego, California, the company is advancing its pipeline of products, which includes ANPD001, an autologous neuron replacement therapy for sporadic Parkinson's disease, and ANPD002, a gene-edited autologous neuron replacement therapy targeting familial forms of the disease. Aspen Neuroscience employs innovative genomic approaches in conjunction with stem cell biology to address diseases with significant unmet medical needs, aiming to provide restorative cell therapies that can modify the progression of Parkinson's disease and potentially extend to other affected organs.
Genetron Health
Series D in 2019
Genetron Health is a prominent oncology company based in China, specializing in precision medicine and cancer molecular profiling. The firm focuses on developing health management products that encompass all aspects of cancer clinical treatment, including risk assessment, early screening, molecular pathology diagnosis, medication guidance, and prognosis monitoring. By leveraging advanced technologies in molecular biology and data science, Genetron Health effectively applies genomic data to support medical professionals and researchers. The company offers reliable molecular clinical services and professional cancer genetic risk assessments to patients, including those at high risk and healthy individuals. Over three years, Genetron Health has established global genomics sequencing and bioinformatics platforms, alongside R&D centers in North Carolina and Beijing, and clinical laboratories across several Chinese cities. Looking ahead, Genetron Health plans to expand its sales network throughout China, aiming to provide comprehensive services to both Chinese and global cancer patients, supported by its expertise in cancer genomics and clinical translation.
miRecule
Venture Round in 2019
miRecule, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Gaithersburg, Maryland, established in 2016. The company specializes in developing a microRNA-based drug discovery platform, DREAmiR, aimed at addressing challenges in cancer therapy and muscular dystrophy. This innovative platform leverages genomic and outcome data from thousands of patients to identify genetic abnormalities associated with diseases. miRecule formulates RNA therapeutics that can directly target and correct these genetic issues. The platform integrates genomic sequencing, expression, and prognostic data from numerous cancer patients with high throughput screening of microRNA candidates for replacement therapy. miRecule is focused on creating highly tailored therapeutics, with lead programs targeting Head & Neck Cancer and Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy, ultimately striving to improve the quality of life for patients suffering from debilitating conditions.
Variant Bio
Series A in 2019
Variant Bio Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Seattle, Washington, that focuses on developing therapeutics through the study of human genetic diversity. Founded in 2018, the company identifies individuals and populations that exhibit extreme traits of medical significance, utilizing advanced sequencing technologies and analytic methods to uncover the genes and pathways associated with these traits. By leveraging insights from genetic research, Variant Bio aims to discover new therapeutic targets for conditions such as neurodegenerative, autoimmune, and cardiometabolic diseases. The company's innovative approach combines statistical genetics and machine learning, enhancing the potential for genomic drug discovery to address unmet medical needs.
Encoded Therapeutics
Series C in 2019
Encoded Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company that specializes in precision gene therapies aimed at treating a wide array of severe genetic disorders. Utilizing a unique platform, Encoded identifies sequences within the human genome that regulate gene expression through advanced screening and computational techniques. The company's therapy pipeline targets both genetic and acquired disorders across various disease pathways, including neurocircuitry, liver and metabolic disorders, neurodegeneration, and cardiovascular diseases. Founded in 2014 and based in South San Francisco, California, Encoded Therapeutics is focused on developing innovative solutions that enable medical practitioners to improve patient outcomes and enhance quality of life.
Prevail Therapeutics
Series B in 2019
Prevail Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on developing novel gene therapies for patients with Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases. Prevail was launched in 2017 by The Silverstein Foundation for Parkinson’s with GBA, REGENXBIO, and OrbiMed, and is headquartered in New York, NY.
Gencove
Series A in 2019
Gencove is a software platform that focuses on high-throughput and cost-effective genome sequencing through the use of low-pass sequencing technology. The company aims to revolutionize genomics research and diagnostics across various species by providing fast and affordable whole-genome sequencing solutions. Gencove develops both molecular and computational tools that facilitate low-cost genome sequencing, making genomic data accessible to researchers in diverse industries, including agriculture and pharmaceuticals.
Maze Therapeutics
Series A in 2019
Maze Therapeutics is a biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California, focused on developing innovative medicines that leverage the effects of rare genetic variants to address unmet medical needs. Founded in 2017 and originally known as Modulus Therapeutics, the company utilizes its proprietary Compass platform to identify genetic variants linked to diseases and map them to the biological pathways that drive these conditions in specific patient populations. By integrating large-scale human genetics data and functional genomics with various drug discovery methods, Maze Therapeutics aims to reveal modifier genes that offer protective benefits. This approach enhances the understanding of target biology and informs the development of novel therapies, ultimately enabling pharmaceutical companies to create effective treatments.
Frequency Therapeutics
Series B in 2019
Frequency Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Woburn, Massachusetts, that aims to repair or reverse damage from various degenerative diseases by utilizing the body’s own biological mechanisms. The company employs a Progenitor Cell Activation approach, which involves the use of small molecules to activate progenitor cells and promote the regeneration of functional tissue. Its leading product candidate, FX-322, is currently undergoing phase 2a clinical trials to address the underlying causes of sensorineural hearing loss. In addition to hearing loss, Frequency Therapeutics is also exploring treatments for a range of other conditions, including multiple sclerosis and diseases affecting muscle, the gastrointestinal tract, skin, and bone. The company has established a collaboration with Astellas Pharma for the development and commercialization of FX-322. Founded in 2014, Frequency Therapeutics focuses on disease modification without the complexities associated with genetic engineering.
Kallyope
Series B in 2018
Kallyope Inc. is a biotechnology company based in New York City that focuses on the gut-brain axis to develop innovative therapeutics and consumer products aimed at enhancing human health. Founded in 2014, Kallyope employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating technologies such as sequencing, computational biology, neural imaging, and human genetics to deepen the understanding of gut-brain biology. This comprehensive understanding enables the company to create effective and well-tolerated oral medications targeting various health issues, including diabetes, obesity, gut disorders, inflammatory diseases, migraines, and allergies. With a team of experienced scientists and a strong foundation in drug discovery, Kallyope aims to address significant unmet medical needs through its research and development efforts.
Stoke Therapeutics
Series B in 2018
Stoke Therapeutics, Inc. is an early-stage biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Bedford, Massachusetts, focused on developing novel antisense oligonucleotide medicines to address the underlying causes of severe genetic diseases. The company employs its proprietary TANGO (Targeted Augmentation of Nuclear Gene Output) technology to enhance gene expression by targeting RNA splicing, thereby selectively restoring protein levels. Its lead product candidate, STK-001, is currently in clinical testing for the treatment of Dravet syndrome, a serious and progressive genetic epilepsy. Established in 2014, Stoke Therapeutics also collaborates with Invitae Corporation to provide genetic testing services, further supporting its mission to advance gene-targeted therapies for patients with severe genetic conditions.
Benson Hill
Series C in 2018
Benson Hill is a crop improvement company that unlocks the natural diversity of plants and empowers innovators with a revolutionary crop design platform to develop healthier and more sustainable food and ingredients. Benson Hill empowers innovators to develop more healthy, flavorful, and sustainable food by unlocking the natural genetic diversity of plants. Benson Hill’s CropOS™ platform combines machine learning and big data with breeding techniques and plant biology to drastically accelerate and simplify the product development process.
ORIG3N
Series B in 2018
ORIG3N is a biotechnology company developing breakthrough treatments for rare genetically inherited diseases with targets in heart, liver, and neurodegenerative indications. It was founded in 2014 and is based in Boston, Massachusetts.
Cibus
Series C in 2018
Cibus is a biotechnology company focused on precision gene editing in agriculture, aiming to enhance sustainability and profitability in farming. The company has developed a proprietary gene-editing technology known as the Rapid Trait Development System, which combines crop-specific cell biology platforms with various gene editing techniques. Cibus's primary objective is to create plant traits that address specific challenges in farming, including issues related to productivity, plant agronomy, diseases, pests, weeds, nutrient use, and climate adaptability. By employing advanced breeding technologies, Cibus enables precise and stable modifications in plants and other organisms without the introduction of foreign genetic material, thereby promoting environmentally friendly agricultural practices.
StrideBio
Series A in 2018
StrideBio, Inc. is a gene therapy company based in Durham, North Carolina, established in 2015. The company focuses on developing innovative adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector technologies and therapeutics aimed at treating rare diseases. Utilizing a proprietary platform that combines structural insights with accelerated evolution, StrideBio creates novel AAV capsids designed to evade neutralizing antibodies. This approach allows for enhanced gene addition, gene silencing, and gene editing capabilities, addressing the limitations of first-generation gene therapies. By engineering unique and differentiated vectors, StrideBio aims to improve treatment outcomes for patients facing devastating conditions.
Prevail Therapeutics
Series A in 2018
Prevail Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on developing novel gene therapies for patients with Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases. Prevail was launched in 2017 by The Silverstein Foundation for Parkinson’s with GBA, REGENXBIO, and OrbiMed, and is headquartered in New York, NY.
Kallyope
Series B in 2018
Kallyope Inc. is a biotechnology company based in New York City that focuses on the gut-brain axis to develop innovative therapeutics and consumer products aimed at enhancing human health. Founded in 2014, Kallyope employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating technologies such as sequencing, computational biology, neural imaging, and human genetics to deepen the understanding of gut-brain biology. This comprehensive understanding enables the company to create effective and well-tolerated oral medications targeting various health issues, including diabetes, obesity, gut disorders, inflammatory diseases, migraines, and allergies. With a team of experienced scientists and a strong foundation in drug discovery, Kallyope aims to address significant unmet medical needs through its research and development efforts.
Moderna
Series G in 2018
Moderna, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, that specializes in developing therapeutics and vaccines using messenger RNA technology. Founded in 2010, the company focuses on various therapeutic areas, including infectious diseases, oncology, rare genetic disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. As of September 2024, Moderna has 40 mRNA development candidates in clinical development, demonstrating its commitment to advancing medical science. The company's mRNA platform has gained significant recognition, particularly with the authorization of its COVID-19 vaccine in December 2020. Moderna has established strategic collaborations with notable organizations such as AstraZeneca, Merck & Co., and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Additionally, it collaborates with Lonza Ltd. and Catalent for the manufacturing of its COVID-19 vaccine. Through its innovative approach, Moderna aims to provide effective solutions for a range of health challenges.
Codiak Biosciences
Series C in 2017
Codiak is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on pioneering the development of exosome-based therapeutics, a new class of medicines with the potential to transform the treatment of a wide spectrum of diseases with high unmet medical need. By leveraging the biology of exosomes as natural intercellular transfer mechanisms, Codiak has developed its proprietary engEx Platform to expand upon the innate properties of exosomes to design, engineer and manufacture novel exosome therapeutic candidates. Codiak has utilized its engEx Platform to generate a deep pipeline of engineered exosomes aimed at treating a broad range of disease areas, spanning oncology, neuro-oncology, neurology, neuromuscular disease and infectious disease.
Cydan
Venture Round in 2017
Cydan is an orphan drug accelerator focused on developing therapies for patients with rare genetic diseases. The organization identifies and mitigates the risks associated with compounds that have therapeutic and commercial potential. Through a rigorous process, Cydan generates data to support the development of new therapies and the formation of new companies. Their experienced team leverages strong relationships with academia and patient advocacy groups, along with deep expertise in drug development and a proven track record of successful product commercialization. By guiding therapies through clinical, regulatory, and commercial development, Cydan aims to improve the lives of patients and families affected by rare diseases.
LifeMine Therapeutics
Series A in 2017
LifeMine Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on discovering new drug modalities from eukaryotic microbes, particularly fungi. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with an additional office in New York, the company employs an integrated platform that combines genomics, artificial intelligence, and synthetic biology. This innovative Avatar-Rx platform utilizes high-throughput microbiology, data science, machine learning, genome engineering, and automation to explore the fungal biosphere for novel genetically encoded molecules with specific biological functions. By integrating chemoinformatic-assisted drug optimization and advanced chemical synthesis with biotransformation, LifeMine Therapeutics aims to advance a pipeline of new medicines into development.
Egenesis
Series A in 2017
Egenesis Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on gene editing and genome engineering to create human transplantable organs, tissues, and cells. Established in 2015 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with an additional office in New York City, Egenesis aims to address the global organ shortage by developing solid organs and therapeutic cell transplantation solutions for various diseases. The company utilizes a gene editing platform that incorporates techniques such as single-cell cloning and somatic cell nuclear transfer, which are essential for creating human-compatible organ tissues and cells. Egenesis is particularly engaged in advancing programs related to kidney and islet cell transplantation, striving to provide alternative treatment options for patients with life-threatening conditions.
Synthego
Series B in 2017
Synthego Corporation is a genome engineering company focused on advancing life science research and therapeutic development to improve human health. Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Redwood City, California, Synthego offers a comprehensive platform that integrates proprietary hardware, software, bioinformatics, chemistries, and molecular biology. The company's product portfolio includes engineered cells, CRISPR kits, and bioinformatics tools designed for various applications such as pathway analysis, target validation, disease modeling, and diagnostics. By leveraging machine learning and automation, Synthego enables researchers in biotechnology and academia to conduct efficient and precise gene editing, facilitating rapid advancements in drug discovery and development. The company serves a global customer base, distributing its products through various channels, including online sales and partnerships in multiple countries.
Molecular Assemblies
Seed Round in 2016
Molecular Assemblies, Inc. is a San Diego-based company specializing in enzymatic DNA synthesis technology, which facilitates the development of DNA-based products across various industries. Founded in 2013, the company focuses on creating long, high-quality, sequence-specific DNA in a reliable, affordable, and sustainable manner, inspired by natural processes. Its technology has applications in industrial synthetic biology, personalized therapeutics, precision diagnostics, information storage, nanotechnology, and DNA electronics. The firm boasts a skilled executive and scientific team, supported by a robust intellectual property portfolio. Molecular Assemblies has garnered investments from a range of venture capital sources, indicating strong interest in its innovative approach to DNA synthesis.
Vtesse
Series A in 2016
Vtesse, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Gaithersburg, Maryland, focused on developing treatments for patients with rare diseases. The company is conducting clinical studies for VTS-270, aimed at treating Niemann-Pick disease type C (NPC), and is also engaged in pre-clinical discovery and development of additional therapies for NPC and other lysosomal storage diseases. Vtesse originated as the first spin-out from Cydan Development, an orphan-drug accelerator that identifies promising therapeutic programs. The company collaborates with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to advance its clinical studies and is supported by a consortium of experienced investors. Vtesse's management team has a strong background, having participated in the development of over 20 approved drugs and vaccines, which underscores its commitment to addressing the needs of underserved patient populations.
Kineta (Reverse Merger With Yumanity Therapeutics)
Series A in 2016
Yumanity Therapeutics is transforming drug discovery for neurodegenerative diseases caused by protein misfolding. Founded in December 2014 by award-winning protein folding expert, Susan Lindquist, and renowned biotech industry leader, Tony Coles, Yumanity is working to identify and develop new, disease-modifying therapies that address several illnesses with critical unmet medical needs. The initial focus of the company is neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The company’s proprietary platforms have already identified one potential new target for treating Parkinson’s disease, and Yumanity is actively advancing its new chemical lead series for this condition, as well as identifying additional compounds for Alzheimer’s disease and ALS.
Codiak Biosciences
Series B in 2016
Codiak is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on pioneering the development of exosome-based therapeutics, a new class of medicines with the potential to transform the treatment of a wide spectrum of diseases with high unmet medical need. By leveraging the biology of exosomes as natural intercellular transfer mechanisms, Codiak has developed its proprietary engEx Platform to expand upon the innate properties of exosomes to design, engineer and manufacture novel exosome therapeutic candidates. Codiak has utilized its engEx Platform to generate a deep pipeline of engineered exosomes aimed at treating a broad range of disease areas, spanning oncology, neuro-oncology, neurology, neuromuscular disease and infectious disease.
Kallyope
Series A in 2015
Kallyope Inc. is a biotechnology company based in New York City that focuses on the gut-brain axis to develop innovative therapeutics and consumer products aimed at enhancing human health. Founded in 2014, Kallyope employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating technologies such as sequencing, computational biology, neural imaging, and human genetics to deepen the understanding of gut-brain biology. This comprehensive understanding enables the company to create effective and well-tolerated oral medications targeting various health issues, including diabetes, obesity, gut disorders, inflammatory diseases, migraines, and allergies. With a team of experienced scientists and a strong foundation in drug discovery, Kallyope aims to address significant unmet medical needs through its research and development efforts.
Benson Hill
Series A in 2015
Benson Hill is a crop improvement company that unlocks the natural diversity of plants and empowers innovators with a revolutionary crop design platform to develop healthier and more sustainable food and ingredients. Benson Hill empowers innovators to develop more healthy, flavorful, and sustainable food by unlocking the natural genetic diversity of plants. Benson Hill’s CropOS™ platform combines machine learning and big data with breeding techniques and plant biology to drastically accelerate and simplify the product development process.
Calimmune
Series B in 2015
Calimmune is a clinical-stage gene therapy company. The company’s lead therapeutic candidate, is a gene-based therapy engineered to control HIV infection and to protect individuals with HIV from progressing to AIDS. The therapy is currently being evaluated in Phase I/II studies. Cal-1 is designed to reduce production of CCR5, a protein on the surface of white blood cells that plays a critical role in enabling HIV to infect cells. It also has a second mechanism aimed at preventing viral fusion, the process by which the virus enters the cell. This dual approach was shown to be effective against broad strains of HIV in pre-clinical studies.
Vtesse
Series A in 2015
Vtesse, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Gaithersburg, Maryland, focused on developing treatments for patients with rare diseases. The company is conducting clinical studies for VTS-270, aimed at treating Niemann-Pick disease type C (NPC), and is also engaged in pre-clinical discovery and development of additional therapies for NPC and other lysosomal storage diseases. Vtesse originated as the first spin-out from Cydan Development, an orphan-drug accelerator that identifies promising therapeutic programs. The company collaborates with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to advance its clinical studies and is supported by a consortium of experienced investors. Vtesse's management team has a strong background, having participated in the development of over 20 approved drugs and vaccines, which underscores its commitment to addressing the needs of underserved patient populations.
Syros Pharmaceuticals
Series B in 2014
Syros Pharmaceuticals is a life sciences company that is focused on treating disease by mapping gene regulatory circuits and modulating the factors that regulate gene expression. Syros has pioneered world-leading gene control research and drug discovery capabilities with a proven ability to integrate disease biology and genomic data--a proficiency that is not well represented in pharmaceutical R&D. Central to the Syros approach is a proprietary platform of carefully integrated assay technologies, bioinformatics, and biologic insights developed by members of Syros' senior leadership. While this scientific approach has applications in many therapeutic areas, Syros has demonstrated success initially in oncology, where it may help address numerous unmet medical needs.
Cydan
Venture Round in 2013
Cydan is an orphan drug accelerator focused on developing therapies for patients with rare genetic diseases. The organization identifies and mitigates the risks associated with compounds that have therapeutic and commercial potential. Through a rigorous process, Cydan generates data to support the development of new therapies and the formation of new companies. Their experienced team leverages strong relationships with academia and patient advocacy groups, along with deep expertise in drug development and a proven track record of successful product commercialization. By guiding therapies through clinical, regulatory, and commercial development, Cydan aims to improve the lives of patients and families affected by rare diseases.
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