Alexandria Venture Investments

Alexandria Venture Investments, LLC is a venture capital firm established in 1996 and headquartered in Pasadena, California. It specializes in seed, early-stage, and growth capital investments primarily within the healthcare sector, with a particular emphasis on biopharma, diagnostics, life sciences, agrifood technology, and technology sectors. The firm is recognized for its strategic approach, providing long-term investment capital to innovative companies that are developing transformative technologies and therapies aimed at improving human health. As a subsidiary of Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Alexandria Venture Investments leverages its deep industry expertise, extensive relationships with investors, and a world-class scientific advisory network to support and fund promising startups and growth-oriented companies in disruptive life science and technology.

Hunter Reed

Vice President

Stephen A. Richardson

Co-CEO

Past deals in Pharmaceuticals

Solu Therapeutics

Series A in 2025
Solu Therapeutics is a precision medicine company dedicated to developing innovative therapeutics aimed at eliminating cells responsible for driving diseases. Utilizing a unique cytotoxicity-targeting chimera platform, Solu Therapeutics focuses on oncology and also addresses inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. By targeting these disease-driving cells, the company's approach seeks to assist medical professionals in reducing the risks associated with various oncological conditions, ultimately improving patient outcomes and advancing therapeutic options in the healthcare sector.

CrossBridge Bio

Seed Round in 2024
CrossBridge Bio is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) for cancer treatment. The company utilizes proprietary linker technology and enzymatic conjugation methods to create stable and targeted ADC therapeutics. This approach aims to improve the efficacy and safety profiles of cancer therapies, offering potential advancements in the treatment landscape. By leveraging its unique dual linker payload technology, CrossBridge Bio seeks to revolutionize how cancer is treated, providing new options for patients and healthcare providers.

Leal Therapeutics

Venture Round in 2024
Leal Therapeutics is a Massachusetts-based company focused on developing innovative therapeutics for patients with significant central nervous system conditions. The company addresses urgent and unmet medical needs by providing precision medicines tailored to improve patient outcomes. Through its dedication to advancing therapeutic services, Leal Therapeutics aims to enhance the quality of care for individuals affected by challenging neurological disorders.

Passkey

Seed Round in 2024
Passkey Therapeutics is pioneering a new class of medicines, Synergistic Multifunctional Therapeutics (SMThs). It is designed to address complex diseases by targeting rare combinations of proteins that work together.

Judo Bio

Series A in 2024
Judo Bio is a biotechnology company focused on developing precision therapeutics that target specific cell populations to treat genetic diseases. Utilizing an innovative receptor targeting approach, Judo Bio is building a pipeline of therapies designed to benefit patients suffering from both common and rare conditions. Currently, the company is operating in stealth mode, indicating a focus on research and development without public visibility.

858 Therapeutics

Series B in 2024
858 Therapeutics is a biotechnology company dedicated to the discovery of small molecule therapeutics aimed at treating cancers and other diseases, particularly those resistant to existing therapies. The company employs innovative strategies in areas such as synthetic lethality, innate immunity, and RNA modulation to develop its therapeutic candidates. Its lead program focuses on a PARG inhibitor, which is currently in early clinical development. By leveraging its platform to investigate the role of RNA modifying proteins in disease biology, 858 Therapeutics is generating a pipeline of targeted small molecules that address critical unmet medical needs in oncology and immunology.

Radiant Biotherapeutics

Series A in 2024
Radiant Biotherapeutics is an innovative company focused on developing a modular platform for multi-valent and multi-specific therapeutics. This platform aims to advance antibody engineering by producing multi-functional biologics capable of addressing challenging diseases, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases. By leveraging enhanced binding power and multi-specificity, Radiant Biotherapeutics seeks to create potent therapeutics that have the potential to significantly improve treatment outcomes for patients. The company is committed to delivering transformative therapies through its cutting-edge approach to antibody technology.

Clasp Therapeutics

Series A in 2024
Clasp Therapeutics is focused on advancing cancer treatment through its innovative immunotherapeutics platform. The company develops precision medicines designed to enhance the immune system's ability to identify and eliminate challenging tumors that possess common driver mutations, irrespective of the tumor type. By enabling the targeting of cancer-specific markers, Clasp Therapeutics aims to allow for precise and selective destruction of tumor cells, thereby improving therapeutic outcomes in the field of immuno-oncology.

Alto Neuroscience

Series C in 2023
Alto Neuroscience is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on improving mental health treatment through personalized medicine. By utilizing an AI-enabled biomarker platform, Alto integrates detailed patient data regarding brain activity and behavior to develop effective therapeutics for specific populations. The company aims to transform the traditional trial-and-error approach in psychiatry by matching the appropriate treatment to individual patients, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of interventions. Alto's clinical-stage assets include various products targeting conditions such as depressive disorders and schizophrenia, identified through independent brain-based biomarkers. Through its innovative approach, Alto Neuroscience seeks to redefine psychiatric care at a critical time for mental health.

DEKA Biosciences

Series B in 2023
DEKA Biosciences is an early-stage biotechnology company focused on developing next-generation cytokine therapeutics aimed at treating cancer and inflammatory diseases. The company is dedicated to creating life-changing medicines with disease-specific applications that enhance patient outcomes. By leveraging improved pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, DEKA Biosciences aims to deliver dual and complementary cytokines directly to affected tissues or cells. This targeted approach seeks to provide patients with curative treatment options for a range of conditions, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases.

Solu Therapeutics

Seed Round in 2023
Solu Therapeutics is a precision medicine company dedicated to developing innovative therapeutics aimed at eliminating cells responsible for driving diseases. Utilizing a unique cytotoxicity-targeting chimera platform, Solu Therapeutics focuses on oncology and also addresses inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. By targeting these disease-driving cells, the company's approach seeks to assist medical professionals in reducing the risks associated with various oncological conditions, ultimately improving patient outcomes and advancing therapeutic options in the healthcare sector.

Radiant Biotherapeutics

Seed Round in 2023
Radiant Biotherapeutics is an innovative company focused on developing a modular platform for multi-valent and multi-specific therapeutics. This platform aims to advance antibody engineering by producing multi-functional biologics capable of addressing challenging diseases, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases. By leveraging enhanced binding power and multi-specificity, Radiant Biotherapeutics seeks to create potent therapeutics that have the potential to significantly improve treatment outcomes for patients. The company is committed to delivering transformative therapies through its cutting-edge approach to antibody technology.

TORL BioTherapeutics

Series B in 2023
TORL BioTherapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing innovative antibody-based medicines aimed at improving outcomes for cancer patients. The company specializes in creating antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) to address oncologic diseases that exhibit significant unmet medical needs. TORL BioTherapeutics employs a strategic approach that includes target identification and early discovery work, allowing them to license promising drug programs and develop proprietary therapies with optimized characteristics. Through this pipeline, TORL BioTherapeutics is positioned to advance novel treatments that could significantly enhance patient care in oncology.

Tiamat Sciences

Seed Round in 2023
Tiamat Sciences is a start-up focused on producing affordable, animal-free growth factors and biomolecules through innovative plant-based bioreactor technology. By leveraging its proprietary platform, the company manufactures a diverse array of high-value proteins, including antigens and growth factors, achieving significant cost reductions—up to 10 times lower than traditional methods, with potential for a 1000-fold decrease at scale while maintaining high growth margins. Tiamat's approach not only enhances production efficiency but also aligns with sustainability goals by providing ecological alternatives for the pharmaceutical industry, allowing for the reduction or replacement of animal-derived materials. With low facility investment requirements, Tiamat positions itself as an ideal partner for scaling production in emerging markets such as cellular agriculture and cell and gene therapy.

Dantari

Series A in 2022
Dantari is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative medicines for the treatment of serious diseases, including cancer and conditions affecting the central nervous system. The company utilizes a pharmaceutical platform that emphasizes the research and development of both small and large molecule therapeutics capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier. Dantari's advanced technology features a higher drug-to-antibody ratio than traditional antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), allowing for tunable release of therapeutic payloads and the delivery of larger payloads. This approach aims to enhance efficacy and expand the therapeutic potential of its treatments, ultimately improving patient health and providing meaningful medical advancements.

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.

DEM BioPharma

Series A in 2022
DEM BioPharma is an immuno-oncology company focused on developing innovative therapies aimed at eradicating cancer by targeting the innate immune system. The company has created a platform that specializes in the next generation of macrophage immunotherapies, which work by activating macrophages and immune phagocytes to effectively eliminate tumors. By researching and harnessing these immune responses, DEM BioPharma aims to provide healthcare researchers with advanced treatments that specifically target signals on both cancer cells and macrophages, offering new hope in the fight against cancer.

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.

Creyon Bio

Series A in 2022
Creyon Bio is a pre-clinical stage company focused on advancing drug development through a data-driven methodology. It specializes in engineering RNA-based medicines and their components by creating proprietary datasets that inform advanced machine learning models. This innovative approach enables the rapid identification of design rules and engineering principles necessary for the development of safe and effective oligonucleotide-based medicines. By leveraging these insights, Creyon Bio aims to improve the efficiency of the drug development process, ultimately contributing to cost savings in the healthcare sector while catering to diverse patient populations.

Parthenon Therapeutics

Series A in 2021
Parthenon Therapeutics is inventing a novel class of anti-cancer therapies that reprogram the tumor microenvironment (TME). The interplay between cancer cells and their surrounding microenvironment is relevant in drug development as manycancers use the TME to build barriers that shield immune system attack. One approach, PRTH-101, breaks these barriers to overcome recalcitrant cancers. Based on research, the company is designing a portfolio of drug candidates to treat the right patients at the right time.

Nitrase Therapeutics

Series A in 2021
Nitrase Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical platform company focused on developing therapies targeting a newly identified class of enzymes known as Nitrases. Initially concentrating on Parkinson’s disease, the company aims to create drugs that may slow or halt the progression of this and other related neurodegenerative conditions. By leveraging its expertise in nitration, Nitrase Therapeutics seeks to explore the therapeutic potential of biochemical modifications of proteins, particularly through the identification of nitro-substrates and their involvement in various diseases. This approach positions the company to potentially expand its platform to address a broader range of medical conditions in the future.

DEKA Biosciences

Series A in 2021
DEKA Biosciences is an early-stage biotechnology company focused on developing next-generation cytokine therapeutics aimed at treating cancer and inflammatory diseases. The company is dedicated to creating life-changing medicines with disease-specific applications that enhance patient outcomes. By leveraging improved pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, DEKA Biosciences aims to deliver dual and complementary cytokines directly to affected tissues or cells. This targeted approach seeks to provide patients with curative treatment options for a range of conditions, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases.

Mozart Therapeutics

Series A in 2021
Mozart Therapeutics is a biotechnology startup dedicated to developing disease-modifying therapies for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. The company focuses on a novel regulatory CD8 T cell network to create innovative CD8 Treg modulators aimed at treating a range of autoimmune conditions. By targeting a specific subset of T-lymphocytes, Mozart aims to restore long-term immune balance and prevent the progression of damage caused by autoreactive immune responses. Its pipeline includes first-in-class CD8 Treg modulators designed to delay the onset of autoimmune diseases and improve patient outcomes through advanced treatment options.

IpiNovyx Bio

Seed Round in 2021
IpiNovyx Bio is a biopharmaceutical company focused on creating a novel platform of immunoproteasome-modulating therapeutics aimed at improving the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. The company's innovative approach involves developing inhibitors that selectively target the immunoproteasome, which plays a critical role in regulating specific immune cell types. By modulating these immune responses, IpiNovyx Bio seeks to enable patients to recover more effectively from their conditions and enhance their overall health.

Disc Medicine

Series B in 2021
Disc Medicine, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on developing innovative treatments for severe hematologic disorders. Founded in 2017, the company specializes in human genetics-based therapeutics that aim to improve red blood cell production in patients suffering from various hematologic diseases. Disc Medicine's pipeline includes therapeutic candidates targeting critical pathways involved in red blood cell biology, such as heme biosynthesis and iron homeostasis. Notable programs include bitopertin, which is being developed for conditions like erythropoietic porphyrias and Diamond-Blackfan anemia. Through its research and development efforts, Disc Medicine seeks to transform the lives of patients affected by these challenging disorders.

Asher Bio

Series B in 2021
Asher Biotherapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California, founded in 2019. The company specializes in the development of immunotherapy drugs aimed at effectively treating cancer. Its innovative therapies are designed to enhance the immune system's ability to target and eliminate cancer cells while minimizing side effects. This focus allows healthcare providers to deliver effective treatments to patients in a shorter timeframe, aiming to improve overall outcomes in cancer care.

Effector Therapeutics

Post in 2021
eFFECTOR Therapeutics Inc is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Diego, California. Established in 2012, the company specializes in developing selective translation regulators for cancer and other serious diseases. Its innovative approach involves small molecule drugs known as selective translation regulator inhibitors (STRIs), which target the eIF4F complex and its associated kinase, mitogen-activated protein kinase 1/2 (MNK 1/2). This complex plays a crucial role in the translation of specific messenger RNA into proteins linked to cancer progression. eFFECTOR's lead product candidate, tomivosertib, is currently being evaluated in a Phase 2b trial in combination with pembrolizumab for non-small cell lung cancer. Additionally, zotatifin, an inhibitor of eIF4A, is undergoing dose-escalation trials with plans for further expansion. The company also collaborates with Pfizer to develop inhibitors targeting eIF4E. Through these efforts, eFFECTOR aims to address the challenges of tumor growth, survival, and immune evasion in cancer treatment.

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 Inc. is an artificial intelligence therapeutics company that focuses on developing individualized genetic medicines. Founded in 2014 and based in Toronto, Canada, the company utilizes advanced AI systems to enhance various stages of drug discovery and development, including target identification, lead optimization, toxicity evaluation, and trial design. Deep Genomics specializes in creating oligonucleotide therapies that address the genetic causes of diseases at the RNA and DNA levels. Its innovative AI-powered platform analyzes RNA biology to uncover new therapeutic targets and mechanisms that traditional methods cannot access, enabling the development of treatments for rare metabolic, ophthalmologic, and neurodegenerative disorders. The company recruits top talent in genomics, drug development, and AI to drive its mission of revolutionizing drug discovery.

Cyrus Biotechnology

Venture Round in 2021
Cyrus Biotechnology, Inc. is a Seattle-based company that specializes in developing advanced software for protein structure prediction and design. Founded in 2014, it offers several key products, including Rosetta, a tool designed to create biologically active proteins for various medical applications such as treating brain cancer and addressing Celiac Disease. The company also provides Cyrus Bench, an enterprise version of Rosetta that includes a comprehensive suite of bio-molecular computation tools. Additionally, Cyrus Biotechnology offers specialized services like Cyrus CryoEM, which focuses on structure refinement and model building for complex biomolecular structures. Its innovative software solutions cater to pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, and startups engaged in discovering therapeutics and developing novel consumer products.

Veralox Therapeutics

Series A in 2021
Veralox Therapeutics specializes in the development of small molecule therapeutics aimed at addressing the underlying pathologies of thrombosis and type one diabetes. The company focuses on innovative treatment paradigms informed by a deep understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in these diseases. By targeting conditions such as heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis, Veralox Therapeutics aims to enhance patient outcomes and facilitate complete recovery from diabetes. Through its research and development efforts, the company seeks to provide effective and transformative therapies for individuals affected by these serious health conditions.

Kojin Therapeutics

Series A in 2021
Kojin Therapeutics, founded by Stuart Schreiber, Benjamin Cravatt, Stephanie Dougan, and Vasanthi Viswanathan, focuses on advancing a drug discovery platform that links complex cell states to established biochemical processes, specifically ferroptosis, which involves iron-dependent cell death. This innovative approach enables the development of targeted therapies for a wide range of challenging diseases that are often difficult to treat. The company's biology platform aims to identify disease-specific targets, ensuring that patients receive effective treatments tailored to their specific conditions. Kojin Therapeutics is supported by a diverse group of investors, including Polaris Partners, Newpath Partners, and AbbVie, among others.

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.

Soteria Biotherapeutics

Series A in 2021
Soteria Biotherapeutics, Inc., founded in 2018 and based in San Francisco, California, focuses on developing innovative immunotherapies for cancer treatment. The company is creating a new generation of conditionally active bispecific T-cell engaging antibodies specifically aimed at treating solid tumors. Utilizing its advanced T-LITE™ platform, Soteria enables small molecule-dependent activation of these bispecific antibody therapies, which facilitates safer and more effective treatment options. This approach allows for pulsatile activity, resulting in reduced side effects and the potential for higher dosing, thereby improving the overall therapeutic experience for patients.

TwinStrand Biosciences

Series B in 2021
TwinStrand Biosciences, established in 2015 and based in Bellevue, Washington, specializes in advancing DNA sequencing technology. The company's core innovation, Duplex Sequencing, enhances sequencing accuracy by over 10,000 times, enabling the detection of previously invisible mutations. This breakthrough technology has potential applications across various sectors, including oncology, infectious disease diagnosis, organ transplantation, reproductive health, genetic testing, and forensics.

Ventus Therapeutics

Series B in 2021
Ventus Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing novel small molecule medicines aimed at treating autoimmune diseases, inflammatory diseases, and cancer by targeting the innate immune system. The company employs a structural immunology platform that provides deep insights into the mechanisms and molecular structures involved in immune responses. This platform integrates proprietary protein engineering capabilities with advanced rational and structure-based drug design tools, allowing for precise targeting of the innate immune system. Ventus is actively building a pipeline of drug programs that address critical targets within this system, particularly proteins involved in inflammasome and nucleic acid-sensing signaling pathways, thereby enabling the treatment of both acute and chronic inflammatory and immune-related conditions.

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.

Blacksmith Medicines

Seed Round in 2021
Blacksmith Medicines is focused on developing innovative therapies that target metal-dependent enzymes, known as metalloenzymes, which play a crucial role in human physiology. With over 30% of known enzymes classified as metalloenzymes, they encompass all major enzyme classes, including oxidoreductases, transferases, and hydrolases. Blacksmith Medicines utilizes a specialized platform that combines a curated library of metal-binding pharmacophores with advanced computational modeling techniques. This approach allows for the rapid and systematic design of small molecule inhibitors that specifically interact with key metal ions within the enzyme's active site. The company's efforts are particularly directed towards creating medicines for immuno-oncology and inflammatory diseases, offering the potential for more effective and selective therapeutic options.

Korro Bio

Series A in 2020
Korro Bio Inc., established in 2018 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, specializes in developing nucleic acid-based therapeutics targeting specific sequences in genetic code to treat rare diseases. The company's proprietary platform enables efficient and selective RNA editing, leveraging natural processes common to all multicellular organisms. Korro Bio aims to advance this technology to effect changes in protein structure and function across multiple tissues, expanding the reach of genetic medicines with additional precision and tunability by editing RNA instead of DNA.

TARA Biosystems

Series A in 2020
TARA Biosystems, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing organ-on-a-chip technology, specifically human cardiac tissue models, to enhance drug discovery and safety assessments. Founded in 2014 and based in the United States, the company utilizes stem cell-derived cardiac tissue that mimics adult physiological conditions, enabling precise measurement of cardiac functionality. This innovative platform aims to facilitate the faster and safer development of new therapies by providing predictive in vitro models that can assess the effects of drug compounds on heart function without the need for human testing. Through its advanced technology, TARA Biosystems seeks to improve the health of patients by enabling more reliable assessments of cardiac drug efficacy and safety.

Autobahn Therapeutics

Series B in 2020
Autobahn Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in San Diego, California, focused on developing small molecule therapies for central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Since its incorporation in 2017, Autobahn has aimed to address significant unmet needs in neuropsychiatry and neuroimmunology through its innovative brain-targeting chemistry platform. The company's leading candidate, ABX-002, is a thyroid hormone receptor beta agonist being investigated as a potential treatment for multiple sclerosis and adrenomyeloneuropathy, as well as an adjunctive therapy for major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder depression. Autobahn Therapeutics emphasizes precision tuning of CNS exposure, targeting validated clinical and biological markers to enhance therapeutic opportunities and patient outcomes.

Nitrase Therapeutics

Series A in 2020
Nitrase Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical platform company focused on developing therapies targeting a newly identified class of enzymes known as Nitrases. Initially concentrating on Parkinson’s disease, the company aims to create drugs that may slow or halt the progression of this and other related neurodegenerative conditions. By leveraging its expertise in nitration, Nitrase Therapeutics seeks to explore the therapeutic potential of biochemical modifications of proteins, particularly through the identification of nitro-substrates and their involvement in various diseases. This approach positions the company to potentially expand its platform to address a broader range of medical conditions in the future.

MoMa Therapeutics

Series A in 2020
MOMA Therapeutics is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, founded in 2019. The company focuses on discovering precision medicines by targeting molecular machines that are fundamental to human disease. MOMA Therapeutics utilizes a unique platform that leverages the common features of the ATPase target class, which includes significant conformational changes and energy-driven mechanics. By combining these insights with advancements in structural biology and small-molecule drug discovery, MOMA Therapeutics aims to develop drugs targeting previously challenging enzymes, contributing to the next generation of targeted therapies. The company was formerly known as ATPases NewCo, Inc. before rebranding in March 2020.

Silverback Therapeutics

Series B in 2020
Silverback Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Seattle, Washington, that specializes in developing tissue-targeted therapeutics aimed at treating cancer, chronic viral infections, and other serious diseases. The company’s lead product candidate, SBT6050, is currently undergoing a Phase I/Ib clinical trial; it is a TLR8 agonist conjugated to a HER2-directed monoclonal antibody, targeting tumors such as breast, gastric, and non-small cell lung cancers. Additionally, Silverback is advancing SBT6290, which is in preclinical development and targets Nectin4, found in bladder, triple-negative breast, head and neck, and non-small cell lung cancers. The company is also developing SBT8230, aimed at treating chronic hepatitis B virus infection, and exploring other agents that utilize its proprietary technology to modulate pathways in oncology and fibrosis indications. Silverback's innovative ImmunoTAC platform enables the design of therapies that are systemically delivered but act specifically at disease sites, unlocking previously inaccessible pathways for treatment.

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.

TwinStrand Biosciences

Series A in 2020
TwinStrand Biosciences, established in 2015 and based in Bellevue, Washington, specializes in advancing DNA sequencing technology. The company's core innovation, Duplex Sequencing, enhances sequencing accuracy by over 10,000 times, enabling the detection of previously invisible mutations. This breakthrough technology has potential applications across various sectors, including oncology, infectious disease diagnosis, organ transplantation, reproductive health, genetic testing, and forensics.

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.

ImCheck Therapeutics

Series B in 2019
ImCheck Therapeutics SAS is a biopharmaceutical company based in Marseille, France, founded in 2015. The company specializes in the development of immunotherapeutics aimed at addressing severe unmet medical needs, primarily in the field of immuno-oncology. ImCheck focuses on creating immuno-modulatory antibodies that target members of the butyrophilin super-family of checkpoint molecules, specifically engaging γ9δ2 T cells. Its research and development efforts are directed toward treating various cancers, including breast, gastric, and ovarian cancers, as well as other immune-related diseases. The company's innovative approach positions it at the forefront of next-generation immunotherapy solutions for patients suffering from solid tumors.

Immunitas Therapeutics

Series A in 2019
Immunitas Therapeutics, Inc. is focused on developing targeted therapies for cancer patients through innovative single-cell analyses. Founded in 2019 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company utilizes a single-cell sequencing platform to explore the biology of immune cells within human tumors. This approach allows Immunitas to identify novel drug targets rooted in human biology and create key biomarkers that assist in selecting patients who may benefit from their therapies. By translating laboratory findings into clinical applications, Immunitas aims to address longstanding challenges in oncology and improve treatment options for complex cancers. The company is advancing multiple programs toward early human studies, leveraging expertise in antibody discovery and engineering to develop effective treatments.

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.

Adaptive Phage Therapeutics

Venture Round in 2019
Adaptive Phage Therapeutics, Inc. specializes in developing therapeutic solutions to combat the increasing threat of multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacteria. Founded in 2016 and based in Gaithersburg, Maryland, the company utilizes a unique resource known as PhageBank, which is an extensive and dynamic collection of bacteriophages—viruses that specifically target and attack harmful bacteria. Through a rapid system that matches these phages to individual patient bacterial infections, Adaptive Phage Therapeutics aims to enhance treatment options for patients suffering from MDR infections. Their innovative approach enables medical researchers to create tailored therapies that effectively detect and eliminate resistant bacterial strains.

Boundless Bio

Series A in 2019
Boundless Bio is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative therapies for the treatment of aggressive cancers linked to extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA). Founded in 2018 and based in La Jolla, California, the company aims to address the significant unmet medical needs of patients with oncogene amplified tumors, which affect over 14% of cancer patients. By targeting ecDNA, a key factor in oncogene amplification, Boundless Bio seeks to provide transformative treatments for previously difficult-to-treat cancers. One of its leading candidates, BBI-355, is an oral, selective inhibitor of checkpoint kinase 1 (CHK1), designed to manage the replication and transcription of ecDNA in cancer cells.

Aitia

Series D in 2019
Aitia specializes in applying Causal AI and Digital Twins to advance drug discovery and development. The company utilizes multi-omic patient data and high-performance computing to uncover the underlying biological mechanisms of diseases, creating Digital Twins for conditions such as oncology, neurodegenerative disorders, and immunology. Their Gemini Digital Twins are actively employed to explore new therapies and expedite research and development in areas like multiple myeloma, prostate cancer, Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, and Huntington's Disease, with additional projects in the pipeline. Aitia collaborates with seven of the top ten pharmaceutical companies, academic research institutions, medical societies, multi-omic data firms, and patient advocacy organizations, positioning itself as a leader in the innovative intersection of technology and healthcare.

Blackthorn Therapeutics

Series B in 2019
Blackthorn Therapeutics, based in South San Francisco, California, is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing precision medicine for neurobehavioral disorders. Founded in 2013, the company utilizes a proprietary computational platform that integrates advances in computational and clinical neuroscience to better understand the relationship between brain function and behavior. By targeting dysfunctional brain circuits, Blackthorn aims to address longstanding challenges in drug discovery and development. The company’s approach involves identifying novel therapeutic targets, small molecule drug candidates, and biologically-based patient subgroups that are most likely to benefit from treatment, thereby enhancing the precision of therapeutic interventions in the central nervous system.

Karuna Therapeutics

Series B in 2019
Karuna Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Boston, Massachusetts, dedicated to developing innovative therapies for neuropsychiatric disorders and pain. Its lead product candidate, KarXT, is an oral modulator that has completed a Phase II clinical trial for treating acute psychosis in schizophrenia patients and is undergoing a Phase Ib clinical trial for various central nervous system disorders, including cognitive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s, and dementia-related psychosis. The company is also developing additional muscarinic-targeted drug candidates to address unmet medical needs in these areas. Founded in 2009, Karuna Therapeutics has established partnerships with organizations such as Eli Lilly and Company and PureTech Health LLC, focusing on advancing its drug discovery efforts through collaborations with Charles River Laboratories and PsychoGenics Inc.

Imara

Series B in 2019
Imara, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Boston, Massachusetts, focused on developing and commercializing therapeutics for rare genetic disorders of hemoglobin, including sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia. Founded in 2016, the company is advancing its lead product candidate, IMR-687, which is a highly selective small molecule inhibitor of PDE9. IMR-687 is designed as an oral, once-a-day treatment that aims to modify disease through a multimodal mechanism of action affecting various cell types, including red and white blood cells. Imara is dedicated to addressing the unmet medical needs of patients suffering from these serious hemoglobinopathies.

Applied Therapeutics

Series B in 2019
Applied Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in New York, focused on developing innovative therapies for serious medical conditions with significant unmet needs. The company's lead product candidate, AT-007, is in phase I/II clinical trials for the treatment of galactosemia, while AT-001 is undergoing phase II trials for diabetic cardiomyopathy and phase I trials for diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Additionally, AT-003 is in phase I trials for diabetic retinopathy. The company also has preclinical candidates, such as AT-104, aimed at treating orphan hematological oncology conditions. Founded in 2016, Applied Therapeutics leverages advancements in technology and regulatory processes to create drugs targeting well-established molecular mechanisms.

Dewpoint Therapeutics

Series A in 2019
Dewpoint Therapeutics is a Boston-based biotech company focused on the research and development of treatments targeting biomolecular condensates to address various diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and immunological conditions. Founded in 2018, the company employs an innovative drug platform that utilizes machine-learning-based image analysis for visualizing condensates. This technology supports an engine of engineered cell lines designed to track and mitigate harmful protein sequestration. By leveraging its proprietary platform, Dewpoint seeks to facilitate drug discovery across a wide range of medical indications and collaborates with leading academic and pharmaceutical partners to enhance the accessibility of new therapies for unmet healthcare needs.

Relay Therapeutics

Series C in 2018
Relay Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage precision medicine company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on transforming the drug discovery process. The company employs a novel allosteric drug-discovery platform, known as Dynamo, which integrates advanced computational techniques with experimental methods to study protein motion and interactions. This innovative approach enables the identification and development of therapies targeting complex diseases, particularly in oncology. Relay Therapeutics is advancing a pipeline of product candidates, including RLY-1971, a small molecule inhibitor targeting SHP2, RLY-4008, a selective inhibitor of FGFR2 for advanced solid tumors, and RLY-PI3K1047, aimed at mutant variants of phosphoinositide 3-kinase alpha. Founded in 2015, the company aims to deliver life-changing therapies to patients by addressing previously intractable targets in precision oncology and genetic diseases.

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.

Caraway Therapeutics

Series A in 2018
Caraway Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative treatments for neurodegenerative diseases through the modulation of mitophagy and autophagy. By targeting genetically defined pathways, the company aims to create small molecules that restore cellular balance and address the underlying mechanisms of diseases such as Parkinson's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Founded in 2018 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Caraway Therapeutics seeks to improve the lives of patients affected by these debilitating conditions by leveraging its expertise in cellular degradation processes. The company was previously known as Rheostat Therapeutics, Inc. before rebranding in October 2019.

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.

Inspirna

Series C in 2018
Inspirna is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative drug candidates that target essential drivers of cancer. The company utilizes a microRNA-based target discovery platform to identify novel RNA dysregulated cancer drivers, which can be addressed by small molecules and biologics. Inspirna's clinical programs include first-in-class oral small molecules aimed at treating patients with RAS mutant colorectal cancer (RGX-202) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) (RGX-104), both currently in Phase 1b/2 trials. Through its research, Inspirna aims to provide effective treatment options that specifically target cancer metabolism and progression, offering potential advancements in cancer care.

ENB Therapeutics

Series A in 2018
ENB Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing small molecule inhibitors aimed at treating melanoma and other cancers. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in New York, the company’s lead product, ENB-001, is a selective endothelin B receptor (ETBR) inhibitor. This innovative therapy has shown promise in preclinical studies to reduce tumor growth and enhance survival rates in cancer models by restoring T-cell infiltration into tumors and inhibiting metastasis. ENB-001 has received Orphan Drug Designation from the FDA, ensuring market exclusivity and strong intellectual property protection. The company is also developing a companion diagnostic to identify patients with over-expressed ETBR pathways, which may allow for expansion into multiple tumor types. By addressing drug resistance commonly seen in cancer patients, ENB Therapeutics aims to establish new standards of care that enhance the effectiveness of existing immunotherapy treatments and improve patient outcomes.

Silverback Therapeutics

Series A in 2018
Silverback Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Seattle, Washington, that specializes in developing tissue-targeted therapeutics aimed at treating cancer, chronic viral infections, and other serious diseases. The company’s lead product candidate, SBT6050, is currently undergoing a Phase I/Ib clinical trial; it is a TLR8 agonist conjugated to a HER2-directed monoclonal antibody, targeting tumors such as breast, gastric, and non-small cell lung cancers. Additionally, Silverback is advancing SBT6290, which is in preclinical development and targets Nectin4, found in bladder, triple-negative breast, head and neck, and non-small cell lung cancers. The company is also developing SBT8230, aimed at treating chronic hepatitis B virus infection, and exploring other agents that utilize its proprietary technology to modulate pathways in oncology and fibrosis indications. Silverback's innovative ImmunoTAC platform enables the design of therapies that are systemically delivered but act specifically at disease sites, unlocking previously inaccessible pathways for treatment.

Magnolia NeuroSciences

Series A in 2018
Magnolia Neurosciences Corporation is a New York-based company focused on drug discovery and development, specifically targeting neuroprotective therapies for central nervous system diseases and neurodegeneration. Established in 2018, the company aims to create proprietary small molecule therapeutics that prevent neuronal cell death, offering new treatment options for patients with neurodegenerative disorders and related conditions. Magnolia Neurosciences was founded to advance technologies developed at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center’s Therapeutics Discovery Division and the Neurodegeneration Consortium. Through its innovative approach, the company seeks to address significant medical needs in the field of neurology.

Compass Therapeutics

Series A in 2018
Compass Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative antibody therapeutics for the treatment of solid tumors and hematological malignancies. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company utilizes its proprietary StitchMabs and common light-chain platforms to discover and create multispecific antibody combinations. Its lead product candidate, CTX-471, is an agonistic monoclonal antibody targeting CD137, currently undergoing Phase 1 clinical trials in patients with prior PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitor treatment. Another significant candidate, CTX-009, is a bispecific antibody that inhibits DLL4-mediated Notch signaling and VEGF-A signaling, having completed a Phase 1 dose escalation study. Additionally, CTX-8371, a bispecific antibody targeting PD-1 and PD-L1, is in the IND-enabling stage. Through its innovative approaches, Compass Therapeutics aims to enhance immune engagement and improve therapeutic outcomes for cancer patients.

Antiva Biosciences

Series C in 2018
Antiva Biosciences is a biopharmaceutical company based in South San Francisco, California, focused on developing antiviral drugs to treat human papillomavirus (HPV) infections. Founded in 2012 and previously known as Hera Therapeutics, the company aims to prevent cancer by addressing precancerous lesions associated with HPV. Antiva's innovative approach involves localized therapeutics and small molecule antivirals designed to improve health outcomes for patients suffering from diseases linked to HPV and other viruses. The company's clinical programs target high-grade anal intraepithelial neoplasias and high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasias, utilizing a medicinal chemistry platform that emphasizes the development and commercialization of direct-acting antivirals.

Skyhawk Therapeutics

Venture Round in 2018
Skyhawk Therapeutics is focused on the discovery and development of small molecule therapeutics aimed at correcting RNA expression. The company utilizes proprietary technology to design small molecules that specifically target binding pocket regions on RNA, ensuring both sequence and structural specificity during critical phases of RNA splicing. This innovative approach enables the development of therapies for various conditions, including cancer, neurological disorders, and rare diseases, particularly those associated with RNA mis-splicing known as exon skipping. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, Skyhawk Therapeutics was previously known as Rare Genetix before rebranding in 2018.

insitro

Series A in 2018
Insitro, Inc. is a data-driven company focused on drug discovery and development, particularly targeting nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Founded in 2018 by Daphne Koller and based in South San Francisco, California, Insitro harnesses machine learning and high-throughput biology to revolutionize the process of drug discovery. The company creates extensive functional genomic data sets and integrates them with patient data through innovative machine learning techniques. This approach allows Insitro to build predictive models that enhance target selection, streamline the design of therapeutics, and optimize drug development strategies. By addressing critical challenges in pharmaceutical research and development, Insitro aims to accelerate the delivery of new and effective treatments to patients.

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 established in 2010 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The company specializes in developing therapeutics and vaccines using messenger RNA (mRNA) technology, which provides instructions for cells to produce proteins essential for various biological functions. Moderna has a diverse pipeline, with numerous programs targeting infectious diseases, immuno-oncology, rare diseases, and cardiovascular conditions. As of September 2024, it has 40 mRNA development candidates in clinical trials across multiple therapeutic areas. The company's mRNA technology gained significant recognition with the authorization of its COVID-19 vaccine in December 2020. Moderna maintains strategic alliances with various organizations, including major pharmaceutical companies and research institutions, to enhance its research and development efforts.

Skyhawk Therapeutics

Seed Round in 2018
Skyhawk Therapeutics is focused on the discovery and development of small molecule therapeutics aimed at correcting RNA expression. The company utilizes proprietary technology to design small molecules that specifically target binding pocket regions on RNA, ensuring both sequence and structural specificity during critical phases of RNA splicing. This innovative approach enables the development of therapies for various conditions, including cancer, neurological disorders, and rare diseases, particularly those associated with RNA mis-splicing known as exon skipping. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, Skyhawk Therapeutics was previously known as Rare Genetix before rebranding in 2018.

Expansion Therapeutics

Series A in 2018
Expansion Therapeutics is a drug discovery and development company focused on creating small molecule medicines for RNA-mediated diseases. The company specializes in developing novel RNA-targeted drug candidates that have the potential to treat a wide range of severe health conditions. By leveraging its innovative technology, Expansion Therapeutics aims to provide effective treatment options for patients suffering from these challenging diseases.

Aura Biosciences

Series C in 2017
Aura Biosciences, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on developing therapies to target and destroy cancer cells using viral nanoparticle conjugates. The company’s lead product, AU-011, utilizes viral nanoparticles modeled on the human papillomavirus, conjugated with infrared-activated small molecules, specifically for the treatment of ocular melanoma, a primary eye cancer. By employing nanotechnology, Aura aims to safely eliminate cancer locally, particularly in early-stage cases, to prevent progression to more severe forms of the disease, such as metastasis to the liver. Additionally, the company is advancing its bel-sar candidate for treating primary choroidal melanoma and exploring applications in bladder cancer. Founded in 2007, Aura Biosciences is committed to developing precision immunotherapies that preserve the function of organs affected by cancer.

Relay Therapeutics

Series B in 2017
Relay Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage precision medicine company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on transforming the drug discovery process. The company employs a novel allosteric drug-discovery platform, known as Dynamo, which integrates advanced computational techniques with experimental methods to study protein motion and interactions. This innovative approach enables the identification and development of therapies targeting complex diseases, particularly in oncology. Relay Therapeutics is advancing a pipeline of product candidates, including RLY-1971, a small molecule inhibitor targeting SHP2, RLY-4008, a selective inhibitor of FGFR2 for advanced solid tumors, and RLY-PI3K1047, aimed at mutant variants of phosphoinositide 3-kinase alpha. Founded in 2015, the company aims to deliver life-changing therapies to patients by addressing previously intractable targets in precision oncology and genetic diseases.

Metacrine

Series B in 2017
Metacrine, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Diego, California, dedicated to developing innovative therapies for liver and gastrointestinal diseases. The company is advancing its lead programs, which target the farnesoid X receptor (FXR), a key drug target in these conditions. Currently, MET409 is undergoing a Phase Ib proof-of-concept clinical trial for patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, while MET642 is in a Phase 1 clinical trial for the same patient population. In addition to its FXR-focused programs, Metacrine is exploring a pipeline of novel drug candidates through its internal research and development capabilities. The company also collaborates with Novo Nordisk A/S to further research related to fibroblast growth factor 1. Metacrine was founded in 2014 and is committed to addressing unmet medical needs in liver and gastrointestinal health.

Obsidian Therapeutics

Series A in 2017
Obsidian Therapeutics develops innovative cell and gene therapies aimed at enhancing adoptive immunotherapy for cancer patients. Founded in 2015 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company focuses on creating next-generation therapies that utilize pharmacologic operating systems to provide precise control over protein activity within cells. This technology allows for the development of adoptive cell therapies with advanced functionalities that can be managed by physicians using simple, safe, and orally active medications. By offering improved control over treatment, Obsidian Therapeutics aims to provide better outcomes for patients compared to existing cell therapy options.

Codiak Biosciences

Series C in 2017
Codiak BioSciences is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing exosome-based therapeutics, a novel class of medicines with the potential to address various diseases with significant unmet medical needs. The company employs its proprietary engEx Platform, which allows for the engineering and manufacturing of exosomes, leveraging their natural role as intercellular messengers. Codiak's pipeline includes product candidates such as exoSTING and exoIL-12, targeting diverse therapeutic areas including oncology, neuro-oncology, neurology, neuromuscular diseases, and infectious diseases. Additionally, the company collaborates with the Ragon Institute to explore the potential of its exoVACC platform for vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 and HIV. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Codiak aims to transform therapeutic approaches by harnessing the unique properties of exosomes.

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.

Rodeo Therapeutics

Series A in 2017
Rodeo Therapeutics Corp. is a drug development company based in Seattle, Washington, focused on creating novel small molecule therapies aimed at treating inflammatory bowel disease and enhancing blood cell reconstitution after bone marrow transplants. Founded in 2017, the company specializes in targeting specific enzymes and biological pathways that are vital for tissue repair and regeneration. Its therapies work by increasing tissue levels of prostaglandin PGE2 through the inhibition of a prostaglandin-degrading enzyme, thereby facilitating tissue regeneration and protecting against conditions such as colitis. Rodeo Therapeutics is dedicated to advancing treatments that improve patient outcomes in various medical conditions related to tissue damage and recovery.

Effector Therapeutics

Series C in 2017
eFFECTOR Therapeutics Inc is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Diego, California. Established in 2012, the company specializes in developing selective translation regulators for cancer and other serious diseases. Its innovative approach involves small molecule drugs known as selective translation regulator inhibitors (STRIs), which target the eIF4F complex and its associated kinase, mitogen-activated protein kinase 1/2 (MNK 1/2). This complex plays a crucial role in the translation of specific messenger RNA into proteins linked to cancer progression. eFFECTOR's lead product candidate, tomivosertib, is currently being evaluated in a Phase 2b trial in combination with pembrolizumab for non-small cell lung cancer. Additionally, zotatifin, an inhibitor of eIF4A, is undergoing dose-escalation trials with plans for further expansion. The company also collaborates with Pfizer to develop inhibitors targeting eIF4E. Through these efforts, eFFECTOR aims to address the challenges of tumor growth, survival, and immune evasion in cancer treatment.

Arsanis

Series D in 2017
Arsanis, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Waltham, Massachusetts, specializing in monoclonal antibody (mAb) immunotherapies for serious infectious diseases. Founded in 2010, Arsanis develops mAbs targeting various bacterial and viral pathogens, including its lead program ASN100, which is focused on preventing Staphylococcus aureus pneumonia in high-risk, mechanically ventilated patients and is currently in Phase 2 clinical trials. The company's pipeline also includes ASN500, targeting respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), as well as preclinical candidates ASN300 for Klebsiella pneumoniae and ASN200 for Escherichia coli. Additionally, Arsanis operates research and preclinical development efforts in Vienna, Austria, through its subsidiary, Arsanis Biosciences GmbH. The company's advanced understanding of infection pathogenesis and mAb discovery techniques underpins its efforts to tackle significant health challenges posed by infectious diseases.

Forge Therapeutics

Series A in 2017
Forge Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing innovative therapeutics through a unique chemistry platform that targets metalloproteins. The company specializes in creating novel antibiotics aimed at combating multi-drug resistant bacteria. By employing a proprietary approach that combines bioinorganic and medicinal chemistry, Forge develops selective small molecule inhibitors that target metalloenzymes, particularly in gram-negative bacteria. This strategy enables healthcare professionals to effectively access various biochemical processes and biological catalysis essential for treating challenging diseases.

Antiva Biosciences

Series C in 2017
Antiva Biosciences is a biopharmaceutical company based in South San Francisco, California, focused on developing antiviral drugs to treat human papillomavirus (HPV) infections. Founded in 2012 and previously known as Hera Therapeutics, the company aims to prevent cancer by addressing precancerous lesions associated with HPV. Antiva's innovative approach involves localized therapeutics and small molecule antivirals designed to improve health outcomes for patients suffering from diseases linked to HPV and other viruses. The company's clinical programs target high-grade anal intraepithelial neoplasias and high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasias, utilizing a medicinal chemistry platform that emphasizes the development and commercialization of direct-acting antivirals.

Applied Therapeutics

Series A in 2017
Applied Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in New York, focused on developing innovative therapies for serious medical conditions with significant unmet needs. The company's lead product candidate, AT-007, is in phase I/II clinical trials for the treatment of galactosemia, while AT-001 is undergoing phase II trials for diabetic cardiomyopathy and phase I trials for diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Additionally, AT-003 is in phase I trials for diabetic retinopathy. The company also has preclinical candidates, such as AT-104, aimed at treating orphan hematological oncology conditions. Founded in 2016, Applied Therapeutics leverages advancements in technology and regulatory processes to create drugs targeting well-established molecular mechanisms.

ApoGen Biotechnologies

Series A in 2016
ApoGen Biotechnologies, Inc., founded in 2014 and located in Seattle, Washington, is dedicated to developing innovative therapeutics aimed at addressing the challenges of cancer treatment, particularly the issue of drug resistance. The company focuses on targeting the key drivers of genomic mutations in cancer cells, which are central to tumor evolution and the development of resistance to existing therapies. By addressing the chronic mutations in cancer genomes, ApoGen aims to improve treatment efficacy, reduce cancer recurrence and metastasis, and enhance overall patient survival. The company's approach represents a shift from traditional therapies, providing new hope in the ongoing battle against cancer.

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.

Imara

Series A in 2016
Imara, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Boston, Massachusetts, focused on developing and commercializing therapeutics for rare genetic disorders of hemoglobin, including sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia. Founded in 2016, the company is advancing its lead product candidate, IMR-687, which is a highly selective small molecule inhibitor of PDE9. IMR-687 is designed as an oral, once-a-day treatment that aims to modify disease through a multimodal mechanism of action affecting various cell types, including red and white blood cells. Imara is dedicated to addressing the unmet medical needs of patients suffering from these serious hemoglobinopathies.

Codiak Biosciences

Series B in 2016
Codiak BioSciences is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing exosome-based therapeutics, a novel class of medicines with the potential to address various diseases with significant unmet medical needs. The company employs its proprietary engEx Platform, which allows for the engineering and manufacturing of exosomes, leveraging their natural role as intercellular messengers. Codiak's pipeline includes product candidates such as exoSTING and exoIL-12, targeting diverse therapeutic areas including oncology, neuro-oncology, neurology, neuromuscular diseases, and infectious diseases. Additionally, the company collaborates with the Ragon Institute to explore the potential of its exoVACC platform for vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 and HIV. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Codiak aims to transform therapeutic approaches by harnessing the unique properties of exosomes.

Syros Pharmaceuticals

Series C in 2016
Syros Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, that specializes in developing innovative treatments for cancer and monogenic diseases through gene control medicines. The company is advancing its lead product candidates, including SY-1425, a selective retinoic acid receptor alpha agonist currently in Phase II clinical trials for specific patient populations with acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome, and SY-5609, a cyclin-dependent kinase 7 inhibitor under investigation in a Phase I clinical trial for advanced solid tumors. Syros is also engaged in collaborative research, including a partnership with Incyte Corporation aimed at identifying therapeutic targets for myeloproliferative neoplasms and a licensing agreement with TMRC Co. Ltd. for the development of tamibarotene. With a focus on mapping gene regulatory circuits, Syros leverages its proprietary platform and expertise to address significant unmet medical needs in oncology. Founded in 2011, the company aims to establish new standards of care for patients with hematologic malignancies.

Lodo Therapeutics

Series A in 2016
Lodo Therapeutics Corporation is a drug discovery and development company dedicated to creating novel therapeutics derived from natural sources. It focuses on addressing significant health challenges, particularly resistant infectious diseases and cancers, by collaborating with global pharmaceutical companies and leading non-governmental organizations. Founded to realize the scientific vision of Dr. Sean Brady from Rockefeller University, Lodo Therapeutics utilizes a genome-based, culture-independent platform to discover and characterize small molecules sourced from environmental microbial DNA. This innovative approach leverages advancements in DNA sequencing and bioinformatics to explore the untapped potential of microbial evolution, aiming to identify therapeutically valuable pharmaceutical products. Headquartered in New York City at the Alexandria Center for Life Science, Lodo Therapeutics is committed to harnessing the power of nature in the fight against undruggable targets and high unmet medical needs.

TARA Biosystems

Seed Round in 2016
TARA Biosystems, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing organ-on-a-chip technology, specifically human cardiac tissue models, to enhance drug discovery and safety assessments. Founded in 2014 and based in the United States, the company utilizes stem cell-derived cardiac tissue that mimics adult physiological conditions, enabling precise measurement of cardiac functionality. This innovative platform aims to facilitate the faster and safer development of new therapies by providing predictive in vitro models that can assess the effects of drug compounds on heart function without the need for human testing. Through its advanced technology, TARA Biosystems seeks to improve the health of patients by enabling more reliable assessments of cardiac drug efficacy and safety.

Petra Pharma

Series A in 2016
Petra Pharma Corporation is a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company based in New York that focuses on discovering and developing therapies targeting phosphoinositide (PI) signaling pathways. Established in 2015, the company aims to create novel small molecules that address serious medical conditions, particularly cancer and metabolic diseases. By honing in on unique enzyme targets involved in critical cellular processes such as cell division, growth, trafficking, and signaling, Petra Pharma seeks to develop innovative treatments that can enhance human health and provide new options for healthcare providers.

NextCure

Series A in 2016
NextCure, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Beltsville, Maryland, that specializes in the discovery and development of novel immunomedicines aimed at treating cancer and other immune-related diseases. The company focuses on restoring normal immune function through its lead product candidate, NC318, currently in Phase 2 clinical trials for advanced or metastatic solid tumors. In addition, NextCure is developing NC410, an immunomedicine designed to inhibit immune suppression mediated by Leukocyte-Associated Immunoglobulin-like Receptor 1. The company's research also includes preclinical programs targeting various immunomodulatory proteins associated with tumors and inflamed tissues. NextCure has established collaborations, including a licensing agreement with Yale University and a research partnership with Eli Lilly and Company, to further its innovative therapeutic approaches. Founded in 2015, NextCure is dedicated to advancing first-in-class immunotherapy solutions.

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.

Calimmune

Series B in 2015
Calimmune, Inc. is a clinical-stage company based in Tucson, Arizona, specializing in gene therapies for individuals living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The company is developing Cal-1, a gene-based stem cell therapy designed to protect patients from progressing to AIDS. This innovative therapy aims to control HIV infection through a dual mechanism: it reduces the production of CCR5, a protein that facilitates HIV's ability to infect cells, and prevents viral fusion, thereby blocking the virus from entering cells. Currently, Cal-1 is undergoing Phase I/II clinical studies to evaluate its effectiveness. Calimmune focuses on addressing the diverse needs of individuals at various stages of HIV infection, emphasizing the importance of tailored treatments for those with different levels of treatment experience. Founded in 2000, Calimmune operates as a subsidiary of CSL Behring LLC.

Aura Biosciences

Series B in 2015
Aura Biosciences, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on developing therapies to target and destroy cancer cells using viral nanoparticle conjugates. The company’s lead product, AU-011, utilizes viral nanoparticles modeled on the human papillomavirus, conjugated with infrared-activated small molecules, specifically for the treatment of ocular melanoma, a primary eye cancer. By employing nanotechnology, Aura aims to safely eliminate cancer locally, particularly in early-stage cases, to prevent progression to more severe forms of the disease, such as metastasis to the liver. Additionally, the company is advancing its bel-sar candidate for treating primary choroidal melanoma and exploring applications in bladder cancer. Founded in 2007, Aura Biosciences is committed to developing precision immunotherapies that preserve the function of organs affected by cancer.
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