The Column Group LLC is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, focused on investing in biotechnology companies that are in the startup and early growth stages. Founded in 2005, the firm specializes in the drug discovery and development sector, targeting areas such as cancer, inflammation, infectious diseases, metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and nervous system disorders. The Column Group aims to build companies with innovative scientific platforms that can address unmet medical needs, taking a long-term approach to foster the development of multiple product opportunities rather than seeking quick exits. Typically, the firm invests between $15 million to $30 million per deal, supporting the establishment of groundbreaking therapies in healthcare and life sciences.
RAPT Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company specializing in immunology. It focuses on discovering, developing, and commercializing oral small-molecule therapies aimed at addressing significant unmet medical needs in oncology and inflammatory diseases. RAPT's proprietary discovery engine has led to the advancement of two drug candidates: FLX475, which selectively inhibits the migration of immunosuppressive regulatory T cells into tumors, and RPT193, which targets type 2 T helper cells in inflamed tissues. Both candidates have progressed to clinical trials within a short time frame since the company's inception. Additionally, RAPT is exploring further therapeutic targets, including general control nonderepressible 2 and hematopoietic progenitor kinase 1, which are currently in the discovery phase.
Circle Pharma
Series D in 2024
Circle Pharma, Inc. is an early-stage biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California, founded in 2012 by Matt Jacobson and Scott Lokey. The company focuses on developing cell-permeable macrocyclic peptide therapeutics by employing proprietary computational design algorithms and innovative synthetic chemistry. Circle Pharma utilizes an iterative design process that leverages large virtual libraries of conformationally diverse macrocycle scaffolds, which are selected for their inherent permeability. This approach allows the company to create first-in-class macrocycle therapies that can be administered through multiple routes, including oral delivery. The therapeutics target challenging clinical issues, particularly intracellular protein-protein interactions that are significant contributors to cancer, thereby addressing unmet medical needs and enhancing the capabilities of healthcare professionals in their treatment efforts.
NGM Biopharmaceuticals
Series A in 2024
NGM Biopharmaceuticals is a privately-held drug discovery company committed to identifying transformational medicines that dramatically improve human health. Based on emerging human clinical and genetic observations, the company has devised several innovative experimental approaches to discover new therapies for the treatment of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. The company's current focus is on the gastrointestinal endocrine system, with an aim to identify novel factors implicated in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and the apparent resolution of this grievous disease in patients who have undergone gastric bypass surgery.
Circle Pharma
Series D in 2024
Circle Pharma, Inc. is an early-stage biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California, founded in 2012 by Matt Jacobson and Scott Lokey. The company focuses on developing cell-permeable macrocyclic peptide therapeutics by employing proprietary computational design algorithms and innovative synthetic chemistry. Circle Pharma utilizes an iterative design process that leverages large virtual libraries of conformationally diverse macrocycle scaffolds, which are selected for their inherent permeability. This approach allows the company to create first-in-class macrocycle therapies that can be administered through multiple routes, including oral delivery. The therapeutics target challenging clinical issues, particularly intracellular protein-protein interactions that are significant contributors to cancer, thereby addressing unmet medical needs and enhancing the capabilities of healthcare professionals in their treatment efforts.
Neurona Therapeutics
Series E in 2024
Neurona Therapeutics Inc. is a biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California, that specializes in developing cell-based therapies for neurological disorders. Founded by neuroscientists and stem cell pioneers at The University of California, San Francisco, the company focuses on creating therapeutic compositions of specific types of neurons for targeted delivery into the injured nervous system. Drawing on nearly two decades of research, Neurona seeks to harness particular subpopulations of neurons capable of integrating and repairing dysregulated neural circuits. With a dedicated team of scientists and advisors, the company aims to accelerate the development of breakthrough treatments for patients suffering from significant unmet medical needs in the realm of chronic neurological diseases.
Tenaya Therapeutics
Post in 2024
Tenaya Therapeutics is a developer of novel therapies designed to offer treatment for heart disease. The company's therapies address heart failure through multipronged efforts that target the fundamental cellular pathologies present in diseased cardiac muscle and that leverage cutting-edge research in cardiac development and regeneration, enabling physicians to regenerate heart tissue, and additional programs focused on cardiomyopathies.
Atavistik Bio
Venture Round in 2023
Atavistik Bio is a pre-clinical biotechnology company dedicated to discovering and developing innovative therapies for metabolic diseases and cancer. The company focuses on identifying metabolite-protein interactions and harnessing nature's allosteric control mechanisms to create first-in-class drug candidates. By applying its platform to genetically validated targets, Atavistik Bio aims to advance novel treatments that address significant medical needs in these areas.
Judo Bio
Seed Round in 2023
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.
Carmot Therapeutics
Series E in 2023
Carmot Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Berkeley, California, with an additional office in San Francisco. Founded in 2008, the company focuses on discovering and developing therapies for metabolic diseases, including obesity and diabetes. Carmot employs a proprietary drug discovery approach known as Chemotype Evolution, which enables the exploration of novel chemical and biological frontiers. The company is advancing a portfolio of clinical-stage drug candidates, including CT-388, a once-weekly injectable dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist; CT-996, a once-daily oral GLP-1 receptor agonist; and CT-868, a once-daily injectable dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist for treating type 1 diabetes in patients with overweight or obesity. These innovative therapies aim to enhance glucose clearance and promote weight loss, addressing the fundamental causes of metabolic diseases.
Synthekine
Series C in 2023
Synthekine Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative cytokine therapies and immunotherapies for cancer and autoimmune disorders. Established in 2018 and located in Menlo Park, California, the company employs advanced platforms such as engineered partial agonists and orthogonal cell therapies. Its Synthekine Platform utilizes surrogate agonists instead of traditional mutant cytokines, allowing for the creation of therapeutics that enhance efficacy while minimizing side effects. The product pipeline includes STK-009, an orthogonal ligand, and SYNCAR-001, a CAR-T therapy targeting CD-19, along with STK-012, which consists of partial agonists of IL-2. Synthekine aims to revolutionize treatment paradigms by harnessing the principles of cytokine partial agonism and immunological specificity, leading to novel immunotherapies that improve patient outcomes.
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.
Casma Therapeutics
Series C in 2022
Casma Therapeutics, Inc. specializes in developing innovative therapeutic strategies centered on the natural cellular process of autophagy and lysosomal flux. By focusing on enhancing autophagy, the company aims to improve the clearance of unwanted proteins, organelles, and pathogens, thereby addressing the progression of various diseases. Its research targets several serious medical conditions, including lysosomal storage disorders, muscle disorders, inflammatory disorders, and neurodegeneration. Founded in 2017 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Casma Therapeutics is dedicated to creating effective treatment options that meet significant unmet medical needs in the field of drug discovery and development.
Hexagon Bio
Venture Round in 2022
Hexagon Bio, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Menlo Park, California, focused on discovering novel drugs for diseases that lack effective treatments. Established in 2016, the company utilizes a data-driven approach that combines genomics, synthetic biology, and computational techniques. By mining genomic data from fungal genomes, Hexagon Bio aims to identify targeted small molecule therapeutics. Its proprietary platform leverages data science to engineer drugs from DNA sequences, enabling the identification of small molecule inhibitors that interact with specific target proteins. This innovative method allows researchers to tap into the global metagenome, facilitating the development of new medicines aimed at improving patient outcomes.
Carmot Therapeutics
Series D in 2022
Carmot Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Berkeley, California, with an additional office in San Francisco. Founded in 2008, the company focuses on discovering and developing therapies for metabolic diseases, including obesity and diabetes. Carmot employs a proprietary drug discovery approach known as Chemotype Evolution, which enables the exploration of novel chemical and biological frontiers. The company is advancing a portfolio of clinical-stage drug candidates, including CT-388, a once-weekly injectable dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist; CT-996, a once-daily oral GLP-1 receptor agonist; and CT-868, a once-daily injectable dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist for treating type 1 diabetes in patients with overweight or obesity. These innovative therapies aim to enhance glucose clearance and promote weight loss, addressing the fundamental causes of metabolic diseases.
Kallyope
Series D in 2022
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.
Eikon Therapeutics
Series B in 2022
Eikon Therapeutics, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Hayward, California, focused on developing innovative treatments for chronic and life-threatening diseases. Founded in 2019, the company employs advanced super-resolution microscopy and live-cell imaging techniques to discover drugs targeting previously intractable proteins. By integrating biology, engineering, and chemistry, Eikon Therapeutics aims to enhance the understanding of cellular processes and improve drug discovery efficiency. Its proprietary platforms allow for the sensitive identification of compound-protein interactions, enabling the direct measurement of how chemical compounds affect individual proteins in live cells. This novel approach seeks to unlock new therapeutic opportunities and expand the company's pipeline of potential medications.
Velia
Series A in 2022
Developer of transformative biotech company intended to create, annotate and biologically understand the world's most rigorous and extensive library of microproteins and produce entirely new, novel therapeutics. The company's technology identify novel, protein coding sequences hidden within the human genome, these small proteins mediate rich and diverse human biology, thereby harnessing the therapeutic potential of a novel class of human peptides.
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.
Atavistik Bio
Series A in 2021
Atavistik Bio is a pre-clinical biotechnology company dedicated to discovering and developing innovative therapies for metabolic diseases and cancer. The company focuses on identifying metabolite-protein interactions and harnessing nature's allosteric control mechanisms to create first-in-class drug candidates. By applying its platform to genetically validated targets, Atavistik Bio aims to advance novel treatments that address significant medical needs in these areas.
Hexagon Bio
Series B in 2021
Hexagon Bio, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Menlo Park, California, focused on discovering novel drugs for diseases that lack effective treatments. Established in 2016, the company utilizes a data-driven approach that combines genomics, synthetic biology, and computational techniques. By mining genomic data from fungal genomes, Hexagon Bio aims to identify targeted small molecule therapeutics. Its proprietary platform leverages data science to engineer drugs from DNA sequences, enabling the identification of small molecule inhibitors that interact with specific target proteins. This innovative method allows researchers to tap into the global metagenome, facilitating the development of new medicines aimed at improving patient outcomes.
Neurona Therapeutics
Venture Round in 2021
Neurona Therapeutics Inc. is a biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California, that specializes in developing cell-based therapies for neurological disorders. Founded by neuroscientists and stem cell pioneers at The University of California, San Francisco, the company focuses on creating therapeutic compositions of specific types of neurons for targeted delivery into the injured nervous system. Drawing on nearly two decades of research, Neurona seeks to harness particular subpopulations of neurons capable of integrating and repairing dysregulated neural circuits. With a dedicated team of scientists and advisors, the company aims to accelerate the development of breakthrough treatments for patients suffering from significant unmet medical needs in the realm of chronic neurological diseases.
Circle Pharma
Series C in 2021
Circle Pharma, Inc. is an early-stage biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California, founded in 2012 by Matt Jacobson and Scott Lokey. The company focuses on developing cell-permeable macrocyclic peptide therapeutics by employing proprietary computational design algorithms and innovative synthetic chemistry. Circle Pharma utilizes an iterative design process that leverages large virtual libraries of conformationally diverse macrocycle scaffolds, which are selected for their inherent permeability. This approach allows the company to create first-in-class macrocycle therapies that can be administered through multiple routes, including oral delivery. The therapeutics target challenging clinical issues, particularly intracellular protein-protein interactions that are significant contributors to cancer, thereby addressing unmet medical needs and enhancing the capabilities of healthcare professionals in their treatment efforts.
Eikon Therapeutics
Series A in 2021
Eikon Therapeutics, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Hayward, California, focused on developing innovative treatments for chronic and life-threatening diseases. Founded in 2019, the company employs advanced super-resolution microscopy and live-cell imaging techniques to discover drugs targeting previously intractable proteins. By integrating biology, engineering, and chemistry, Eikon Therapeutics aims to enhance the understanding of cellular processes and improve drug discovery efficiency. Its proprietary platforms allow for the sensitive identification of compound-protein interactions, enabling the direct measurement of how chemical compounds affect individual proteins in live cells. This novel approach seeks to unlock new therapeutic opportunities and expand the company's pipeline of potential medications.
Tenaya Therapeutics
Series C in 2021
Tenaya Therapeutics is a developer of novel therapies designed to offer treatment for heart disease. The company's therapies address heart failure through multipronged efforts that target the fundamental cellular pathologies present in diseased cardiac muscle and that leverage cutting-edge research in cardiac development and regeneration, enabling physicians to regenerate heart tissue, and additional programs focused on cardiomyopathies.
Carmot Therapeutics
Series C in 2020
Carmot Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Berkeley, California, with an additional office in San Francisco. Founded in 2008, the company focuses on discovering and developing therapies for metabolic diseases, including obesity and diabetes. Carmot employs a proprietary drug discovery approach known as Chemotype Evolution, which enables the exploration of novel chemical and biological frontiers. The company is advancing a portfolio of clinical-stage drug candidates, including CT-388, a once-weekly injectable dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist; CT-996, a once-daily oral GLP-1 receptor agonist; and CT-868, a once-daily injectable dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist for treating type 1 diabetes in patients with overweight or obesity. These innovative therapies aim to enhance glucose clearance and promote weight loss, addressing the fundamental causes of metabolic diseases.
Hexagon Bio
Series A in 2020
Hexagon Bio, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Menlo Park, California, focused on discovering novel drugs for diseases that lack effective treatments. Established in 2016, the company utilizes a data-driven approach that combines genomics, synthetic biology, and computational techniques. By mining genomic data from fungal genomes, Hexagon Bio aims to identify targeted small molecule therapeutics. Its proprietary platform leverages data science to engineer drugs from DNA sequences, enabling the identification of small molecule inhibitors that interact with specific target proteins. This innovative method allows researchers to tap into the global metagenome, facilitating the development of new medicines aimed at improving patient outcomes.
Casma Therapeutics
Series B in 2020
Casma Therapeutics, Inc. specializes in developing innovative therapeutic strategies centered on the natural cellular process of autophagy and lysosomal flux. By focusing on enhancing autophagy, the company aims to improve the clearance of unwanted proteins, organelles, and pathogens, thereby addressing the progression of various diseases. Its research targets several serious medical conditions, including lysosomal storage disorders, muscle disorders, inflammatory disorders, and neurodegeneration. Founded in 2017 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Casma Therapeutics is dedicated to creating effective treatment options that meet significant unmet medical needs in the field of drug discovery and development.
Circle Pharma
Series B in 2020
Circle Pharma, Inc. is an early-stage biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California, founded in 2012 by Matt Jacobson and Scott Lokey. The company focuses on developing cell-permeable macrocyclic peptide therapeutics by employing proprietary computational design algorithms and innovative synthetic chemistry. Circle Pharma utilizes an iterative design process that leverages large virtual libraries of conformationally diverse macrocycle scaffolds, which are selected for their inherent permeability. This approach allows the company to create first-in-class macrocycle therapies that can be administered through multiple routes, including oral delivery. The therapeutics target challenging clinical issues, particularly intracellular protein-protein interactions that are significant contributors to cancer, thereby addressing unmet medical needs and enhancing the capabilities of healthcare professionals in their treatment efforts.
Nurix Therapeutics
Venture Round in 2020
Nurix Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company specializing in the discovery, development, and commercialization of small molecule therapies aimed at modulating cellular protein levels to treat cancer and immune disorders. The company's pipeline includes promising preclinical candidates such as NX-2127, an orally available Bruton’s tyrosine kinase degrader targeted at relapsed or refractory B-cell malignancies, and NX-1607, a Casitas B-lineage lymphoma proto-oncogene-B inhibitor for immuno-oncology applications. Nurix's innovative drug discovery platform, DELigase, leverages its expertise in E3 ligases—enzymes that regulate protein modulation within cells—to identify and advance novel drug candidates. Founded in 2009 and based in San Francisco, Nurix Therapeutics aims to provide effective therapies for challenging diseases through its cutting-edge research and development efforts.
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.
Tenaya Therapeutics
Series B in 2019
Tenaya Therapeutics is a developer of novel therapies designed to offer treatment for heart disease. The company's therapies address heart failure through multipronged efforts that target the fundamental cellular pathologies present in diseased cardiac muscle and that leverage cutting-edge research in cardiac development and regeneration, enabling physicians to regenerate heart tissue, and additional programs focused on cardiomyopathies.
ORIC Pharmaceuticals
Series D in 2019
ORIC Pharmaceuticals is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing therapies to overcome resistance in cancer treatments. Founded in 2014 and based in South San Francisco, the company’s lead product candidate, ORIC-101, is a small molecule antagonist of the glucocorticoid receptor, which is associated with resistance to various cancer therapies in solid tumors. Its second candidate, ORIC-533, is an orally bioavailable small molecule inhibitor of CD73, targeting a critical component of the adenosine pathway linked to resistance against chemotherapy and immunotherapy. In addition to these products, ORIC is advancing multiple precision medicines aimed at addressing other mechanisms of cancer resistance. The company’s founders, Charles Sawyers and Scott Lowe, have extensive experience in identifying novel cancer targets that have led to innovative therapies.
Revolution Medicines
Series C in 2019
Revolution Medicines is a clinical-stage precision oncology company dedicated to developing innovative therapies targeting challenging cancer pathways, particularly the RAS and mTOR signaling pathways. The company utilizes a unique approach that reconfigures natural substances into optimized drug candidates, building on the pioneering work of its founder, Martin D. Burke. Revolution Medicines has established an exclusive licensing agreement with the University of Illinois to utilize and further develop this transformative synthetic technology. Among its key product candidates are RMC-4630, a SHP2 inhibitor, and various programs within its RAS(ON) portfolio, along with SOS1 and 4EBP1/mTORC1 initiatives. The company's focus on harnessing complex natural products to create refined, effective therapies positions it to address significant unmet medical needs in oncology.
Rapt
Series C in 2019
RAPT Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company specializing in immunology. It focuses on discovering, developing, and commercializing oral small-molecule therapies aimed at addressing significant unmet medical needs in oncology and inflammatory diseases. RAPT's proprietary discovery engine has led to the advancement of two drug candidates: FLX475, which selectively inhibits the migration of immunosuppressive regulatory T cells into tumors, and RPT193, which targets type 2 T helper cells in inflamed tissues. Both candidates have progressed to clinical trials within a short time frame since the company's inception. Additionally, RAPT is exploring further therapeutic targets, including general control nonderepressible 2 and hematopoietic progenitor kinase 1, which are currently in the discovery phase.
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.
Revolution Medicines
Series B in 2018
Revolution Medicines is a clinical-stage precision oncology company dedicated to developing innovative therapies targeting challenging cancer pathways, particularly the RAS and mTOR signaling pathways. The company utilizes a unique approach that reconfigures natural substances into optimized drug candidates, building on the pioneering work of its founder, Martin D. Burke. Revolution Medicines has established an exclusive licensing agreement with the University of Illinois to utilize and further develop this transformative synthetic technology. Among its key product candidates are RMC-4630, a SHP2 inhibitor, and various programs within its RAS(ON) portfolio, along with SOS1 and 4EBP1/mTORC1 initiatives. The company's focus on harnessing complex natural products to create refined, effective therapies positions it to address significant unmet medical needs in oncology.
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.
ORIC Pharmaceuticals
Series C in 2018
ORIC Pharmaceuticals is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing therapies to overcome resistance in cancer treatments. Founded in 2014 and based in South San Francisco, the company’s lead product candidate, ORIC-101, is a small molecule antagonist of the glucocorticoid receptor, which is associated with resistance to various cancer therapies in solid tumors. Its second candidate, ORIC-533, is an orally bioavailable small molecule inhibitor of CD73, targeting a critical component of the adenosine pathway linked to resistance against chemotherapy and immunotherapy. In addition to these products, ORIC is advancing multiple precision medicines aimed at addressing other mechanisms of cancer resistance. The company’s founders, Charles Sawyers and Scott Lowe, have extensive experience in identifying novel cancer targets that have led to innovative therapies.
ProNeurotech
Venture Round in 2018
ProNeurotech is a developer of neuroprotective drugs that prevent axon loss after acute injury or chronic degenerative disease. The company's business includes research in biochemistry, genetics, neurology and synthetic chemistry that drive the synthesis of the cardinal metabolite, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, enabling patients with neurodegenerative diseases to have access to treatment of neurologic and ocular diseases.
Rapt
Series C in 2017
RAPT Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company specializing in immunology. It focuses on discovering, developing, and commercializing oral small-molecule therapies aimed at addressing significant unmet medical needs in oncology and inflammatory diseases. RAPT's proprietary discovery engine has led to the advancement of two drug candidates: FLX475, which selectively inhibits the migration of immunosuppressive regulatory T cells into tumors, and RPT193, which targets type 2 T helper cells in inflamed tissues. Both candidates have progressed to clinical trials within a short time frame since the company's inception. Additionally, RAPT is exploring further therapeutic targets, including general control nonderepressible 2 and hematopoietic progenitor kinase 1, which are currently in the discovery phase.
Exonics Therapeutics
Series A in 2017
Exonics Therapeutics, Inc. is focused on developing gene editing technologies to address Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a severe genetic neuromuscular disorder. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, with an additional office in Dallas, Texas, the company utilizes CRISPR/Cas9 technology in conjunction with adeno-associated virus (AAV) delivery systems. This innovative approach targets and corrects specific exon mutations that hinder the production of dystrophin, a crucial protein for muscle fiber stability and protection. By aiming for a permanent correction of these genetic mutations, Exonics Therapeutics seeks to provide patients with lasting improvements in their quality of life. The company operates as a subsidiary of Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated.
Gritstone bio
Series B in 2017
Gritstone bio is a biotechnology company focused on developing personalized immunotherapies for cancer and infectious diseases. The company initially concentrated on tumor-specific neoantigens but has expanded its programs to include viral antigens found on the surfaces of infected cells. This approach leverages the immune system's ability to recognize abnormal cell targets, which is crucial for both anti-tumor and anti-viral immunity. Gritstone bio is building a robust pipeline of immunotherapy product candidates, including GRANITE, SLATE, and CORAL, designed to address various solid tumors. Through these developments, Gritstone bio aims to contribute to the evolving landscape of cancer treatment and enhance patient outcomes.
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.
Revolution Medicines
Series A in 2016
Revolution Medicines is a clinical-stage precision oncology company dedicated to developing innovative therapies targeting challenging cancer pathways, particularly the RAS and mTOR signaling pathways. The company utilizes a unique approach that reconfigures natural substances into optimized drug candidates, building on the pioneering work of its founder, Martin D. Burke. Revolution Medicines has established an exclusive licensing agreement with the University of Illinois to utilize and further develop this transformative synthetic technology. Among its key product candidates are RMC-4630, a SHP2 inhibitor, and various programs within its RAS(ON) portfolio, along with SOS1 and 4EBP1/mTORC1 initiatives. The company's focus on harnessing complex natural products to create refined, effective therapies positions it to address significant unmet medical needs in oncology.
Tenaya Therapeutics
Series A in 2016
Tenaya Therapeutics is a developer of novel therapies designed to offer treatment for heart disease. The company's therapies address heart failure through multipronged efforts that target the fundamental cellular pathologies present in diseased cardiac muscle and that leverage cutting-edge research in cardiac development and regeneration, enabling physicians to regenerate heart tissue, and additional programs focused on cardiomyopathies.
Rapt
Series B in 2016
RAPT Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company specializing in immunology. It focuses on discovering, developing, and commercializing oral small-molecule therapies aimed at addressing significant unmet medical needs in oncology and inflammatory diseases. RAPT's proprietary discovery engine has led to the advancement of two drug candidates: FLX475, which selectively inhibits the migration of immunosuppressive regulatory T cells into tumors, and RPT193, which targets type 2 T helper cells in inflamed tissues. Both candidates have progressed to clinical trials within a short time frame since the company's inception. Additionally, RAPT is exploring further therapeutic targets, including general control nonderepressible 2 and hematopoietic progenitor kinase 1, which are currently in the discovery phase.
Effector Therapeutics
Series B in 2015
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.
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.
ORIC Pharmaceuticals
Series B in 2015
ORIC Pharmaceuticals is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing therapies to overcome resistance in cancer treatments. Founded in 2014 and based in South San Francisco, the company’s lead product candidate, ORIC-101, is a small molecule antagonist of the glucocorticoid receptor, which is associated with resistance to various cancer therapies in solid tumors. Its second candidate, ORIC-533, is an orally bioavailable small molecule inhibitor of CD73, targeting a critical component of the adenosine pathway linked to resistance against chemotherapy and immunotherapy. In addition to these products, ORIC is advancing multiple precision medicines aimed at addressing other mechanisms of cancer resistance. The company’s founders, Charles Sawyers and Scott Lowe, have extensive experience in identifying novel cancer targets that have led to innovative therapies.
Neurona Therapeutics
Series A in 2015
Neurona Therapeutics Inc. is a biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California, that specializes in developing cell-based therapies for neurological disorders. Founded by neuroscientists and stem cell pioneers at The University of California, San Francisco, the company focuses on creating therapeutic compositions of specific types of neurons for targeted delivery into the injured nervous system. Drawing on nearly two decades of research, Neurona seeks to harness particular subpopulations of neurons capable of integrating and repairing dysregulated neural circuits. With a dedicated team of scientists and advisors, the company aims to accelerate the development of breakthrough treatments for patients suffering from significant unmet medical needs in the realm of chronic neurological diseases.
Gritstone bio
Series A in 2015
Gritstone bio is a biotechnology company focused on developing personalized immunotherapies for cancer and infectious diseases. The company initially concentrated on tumor-specific neoantigens but has expanded its programs to include viral antigens found on the surfaces of infected cells. This approach leverages the immune system's ability to recognize abnormal cell targets, which is crucial for both anti-tumor and anti-viral immunity. Gritstone bio is building a robust pipeline of immunotherapy product candidates, including GRANITE, SLATE, and CORAL, designed to address various solid tumors. Through these developments, Gritstone bio aims to contribute to the evolving landscape of cancer treatment and enhance patient outcomes.
NGM Biopharmaceuticals
Series D in 2015
NGM Biopharmaceuticals is a privately-held drug discovery company committed to identifying transformational medicines that dramatically improve human health. Based on emerging human clinical and genetic observations, the company has devised several innovative experimental approaches to discover new therapies for the treatment of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. The company's current focus is on the gastrointestinal endocrine system, with an aim to identify novel factors implicated in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and the apparent resolution of this grievous disease in patients who have undergone gastric bypass surgery.
Flexus Biosciences
Series B in 2014
Flexus Biosciences is a privately-held biopharmaceutical company established in 2013 and headquartered in San Carlos, California. The company specializes in the creation, development, and commercialization of innovative anti-cancer therapeutics, particularly through the application of insights in immunology. Flexus focuses on developing small-molecule cancer therapeutics that specifically target regulatory T cells. This targeted approach aims to enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatments, enabling healthcare providers to better address the complexities of cancer care.
ORIC Pharmaceuticals
Series A in 2014
ORIC Pharmaceuticals is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing therapies to overcome resistance in cancer treatments. Founded in 2014 and based in South San Francisco, the company’s lead product candidate, ORIC-101, is a small molecule antagonist of the glucocorticoid receptor, which is associated with resistance to various cancer therapies in solid tumors. Its second candidate, ORIC-533, is an orally bioavailable small molecule inhibitor of CD73, targeting a critical component of the adenosine pathway linked to resistance against chemotherapy and immunotherapy. In addition to these products, ORIC is advancing multiple precision medicines aimed at addressing other mechanisms of cancer resistance. The company’s founders, Charles Sawyers and Scott Lowe, have extensive experience in identifying novel cancer targets that have led to innovative therapies.
Nurix Therapeutics
Series B in 2014
Nurix Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company specializing in the discovery, development, and commercialization of small molecule therapies aimed at modulating cellular protein levels to treat cancer and immune disorders. The company's pipeline includes promising preclinical candidates such as NX-2127, an orally available Bruton’s tyrosine kinase degrader targeted at relapsed or refractory B-cell malignancies, and NX-1607, a Casitas B-lineage lymphoma proto-oncogene-B inhibitor for immuno-oncology applications. Nurix's innovative drug discovery platform, DELigase, leverages its expertise in E3 ligases—enzymes that regulate protein modulation within cells—to identify and advance novel drug candidates. Founded in 2009 and based in San Francisco, Nurix Therapeutics aims to provide effective therapies for challenging diseases through its cutting-edge research and development efforts.
Igenica
Series C in 2014
Igenica, Inc. is a biotherapeutic company based in Burlingame, California, dedicated to the discovery and development of antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) for cancer treatment. Founded in 2008, Igenica specializes in immunotherapies and functional antibodies designed to target tumors effectively. The company's notable products include IGN523, a humanized monoclonal antibody aimed at treating various hematologic and solid tumors; IGN786, an ADC; and IGN381, which targets immune checkpoints that complement existing therapies in the tumor microenvironment. Igenica has established a strategic oncology research agreement with MedImmune and is supported by a group of prominent life science investors, including The Column Group and OrbiMed. The company operates as a subsidiary of Pierre Fabre Medicament SA, with a leadership team that has significant experience in antibody drug discovery and commercialization.
Seragon Pharmaceuticals
Series A in 2013
Seragon Pharmaceuticals, Inc., based in Irvine, California, is a research-focused biopharmaceutical company dedicated to enhancing human and animal health through innovative scientific advancements. The company specializes in the development of orally active selective estrogen receptor degraders (SERDs), particularly targeting metastatic breast cancer. Its lead drug candidate, ARN-810, is currently under evaluation for the treatment of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. By leveraging cutting-edge research in metabolism, gene therapy, and bioinformatics, Seragon Pharmaceuticals aims to facilitate access to significant medical breakthroughs, encompassing both clinical applications and consumer products.
Nurix Therapeutics
Venture Round in 2013
Nurix Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company specializing in the discovery, development, and commercialization of small molecule therapies aimed at modulating cellular protein levels to treat cancer and immune disorders. The company's pipeline includes promising preclinical candidates such as NX-2127, an orally available Bruton’s tyrosine kinase degrader targeted at relapsed or refractory B-cell malignancies, and NX-1607, a Casitas B-lineage lymphoma proto-oncogene-B inhibitor for immuno-oncology applications. Nurix's innovative drug discovery platform, DELigase, leverages its expertise in E3 ligases—enzymes that regulate protein modulation within cells—to identify and advance novel drug candidates. Founded in 2009 and based in San Francisco, Nurix Therapeutics aims to provide effective therapies for challenging diseases through its cutting-edge research and development efforts.
Igenica
Series C in 2012
Igenica, Inc. is a biotherapeutic company based in Burlingame, California, dedicated to the discovery and development of antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) for cancer treatment. Founded in 2008, Igenica specializes in immunotherapies and functional antibodies designed to target tumors effectively. The company's notable products include IGN523, a humanized monoclonal antibody aimed at treating various hematologic and solid tumors; IGN786, an ADC; and IGN381, which targets immune checkpoints that complement existing therapies in the tumor microenvironment. Igenica has established a strategic oncology research agreement with MedImmune and is supported by a group of prominent life science investors, including The Column Group and OrbiMed. The company operates as a subsidiary of Pierre Fabre Medicament SA, with a leadership team that has significant experience in antibody drug discovery and commercialization.
Nurix Therapeutics
Seed Round in 2012
Nurix Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company specializing in the discovery, development, and commercialization of small molecule therapies aimed at modulating cellular protein levels to treat cancer and immune disorders. The company's pipeline includes promising preclinical candidates such as NX-2127, an orally available Bruton’s tyrosine kinase degrader targeted at relapsed or refractory B-cell malignancies, and NX-1607, a Casitas B-lineage lymphoma proto-oncogene-B inhibitor for immuno-oncology applications. Nurix's innovative drug discovery platform, DELigase, leverages its expertise in E3 ligases—enzymes that regulate protein modulation within cells—to identify and advance novel drug candidates. Founded in 2009 and based in San Francisco, Nurix Therapeutics aims to provide effective therapies for challenging diseases through its cutting-edge research and development efforts.
NGM Biopharmaceuticals
Series B in 2011
NGM Biopharmaceuticals is a privately-held drug discovery company committed to identifying transformational medicines that dramatically improve human health. Based on emerging human clinical and genetic observations, the company has devised several innovative experimental approaches to discover new therapies for the treatment of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. The company's current focus is on the gastrointestinal endocrine system, with an aim to identify novel factors implicated in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and the apparent resolution of this grievous disease in patients who have undergone gastric bypass surgery.
Igenica
Series B in 2010
Igenica, Inc. is a biotherapeutic company based in Burlingame, California, dedicated to the discovery and development of antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) for cancer treatment. Founded in 2008, Igenica specializes in immunotherapies and functional antibodies designed to target tumors effectively. The company's notable products include IGN523, a humanized monoclonal antibody aimed at treating various hematologic and solid tumors; IGN786, an ADC; and IGN381, which targets immune checkpoints that complement existing therapies in the tumor microenvironment. Igenica has established a strategic oncology research agreement with MedImmune and is supported by a group of prominent life science investors, including The Column Group and OrbiMed. The company operates as a subsidiary of Pierre Fabre Medicament SA, with a leadership team that has significant experience in antibody drug discovery and commercialization.
Carmot Therapeutics
Series A in 2010
Carmot Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Berkeley, California, with an additional office in San Francisco. Founded in 2008, the company focuses on discovering and developing therapies for metabolic diseases, including obesity and diabetes. Carmot employs a proprietary drug discovery approach known as Chemotype Evolution, which enables the exploration of novel chemical and biological frontiers. The company is advancing a portfolio of clinical-stage drug candidates, including CT-388, a once-weekly injectable dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist; CT-996, a once-daily oral GLP-1 receptor agonist; and CT-868, a once-daily injectable dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist for treating type 1 diabetes in patients with overweight or obesity. These innovative therapies aim to enhance glucose clearance and promote weight loss, addressing the fundamental causes of metabolic diseases.
PTC Therapeutics
Venture Round in 2009
PTC Therapeutics, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the discovery, development, and commercialization of orally administered small-molecule therapeutics for the treatment of rare disorders and cancer. The company offers Translarna, used for nonsense mutation Duchenne muscular dystrophy in ambulatory patients, and Emflaza, a corticosteroid for the same condition. PTC Therapeutics is advancing several candidates in clinical development, including Translarna for other rare genetic conditions, RG7916 and RO7034067 for spinal muscular atrophy, and PTC596 and PTC299, which target cancer through dihydrooratate dehydrogenase inhibition. Additionally, the company is developing a gene therapy candidate, PTC-AADC, for Aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase deficiency. PTC Therapeutics collaborates with various organizations, including F. Hoffman-La Roche Ltd and Massachusetts General Hospital, to further its research and commercialization efforts. Founded in 1998, the company is headquartered in South Plainfield, New Jersey.
NGM Biopharmaceuticals
Series A in 2009
NGM Biopharmaceuticals is a privately-held drug discovery company committed to identifying transformational medicines that dramatically improve human health. Based on emerging human clinical and genetic observations, the company has devised several innovative experimental approaches to discover new therapies for the treatment of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. The company's current focus is on the gastrointestinal endocrine system, with an aim to identify novel factors implicated in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and the apparent resolution of this grievous disease in patients who have undergone gastric bypass surgery.
Sagimet Biosciences
Series B in 2009
Sagimet Biosciences is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Mateo, California, that specializes in developing novel therapeutics for oncology and infectious diseases. The company focuses on targeting dysfunctional metabolic pathways, particularly through its expertise in fatty acid synthase (FASN) biology. Its lead drug candidate, denifanstat, is a selective FASN inhibitor designed for the treatment of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and is administered as an oral, once-daily pill. Additionally, Sagimet is working on antiviral therapeutics aimed at addressing respiratory syncytial virus, cytomegalovirus, and other human pathogens. Originally known as 3-V Biosciences, Inc., the company rebranded to Sagimet Biosciences in August 2019 and has been active since its incorporation in 2006.
Spot something off? Help us improve by flagging any incorrect or outdated information. Just email us at support@teaserclub.com. Your feedback is most welcome.