MassChallenge is a global nonprofit startup accelerator headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, founded in 2009. It supports early-stage entrepreneurs from various industries, including technology, healthcare, and finance, by providing mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities. With locations in countries such as Israel, Mexico, Switzerland, and Texas, MassChallenge operates a non-equity model, allowing startups to retain full ownership while benefiting from expert guidance and connections. The accelerator conducts various programs tailored to specific sectors, such as MassChallenge HealthTech and MassChallenge FinTech, which facilitate partnerships between startups and established enterprises to drive innovation and market growth. Through its extensive global network, MassChallenge aims to strengthen the innovation ecosystem and empower high-potential startups to create meaningful impact.
Form Biologics is a new platform technology for the injectable formulation of biologic medicines in order to make treatments more patient-friendly and efficacious.
Narval
Non Equity Assistance in 2023
Narval develops synthetic antibody mimetic proteins (AMP) to replace conventional antibodies on novel first-in-class immunotherapeutics, making them as affordable, flexible and easy to use as small molecule drugs. AMPs are 40 times smaller than a monoclonal antibody but with the same biological function. Our AMP can penetrate tissue barriers, generate limited immune reactions, can target very small and hard-to-reach antigens, and are heat resistant. These advantages gives our AMP technology the ability to develop immunotherapeutic drugs for disease applications that have been previously impossible to develop because of monoclonal antibody limitations. Our AMPs can be used to generate novel first-in-class antibody drugs to treat, for example, respiratory diseases with inhaled antibodies, eye diseases with non-invasive antibodies on eye drops or autoimmune and skin diseases with antibodies in transdermal controlled release patches.
OSEM
Non Equity Assistance in 2023
OSEM provides best-in-class solutions to nanodrugs manufacturing that revolutionize healthcare, to revolutionize drug delivery systems and contribute to the advancement of life-saving therapeutics.
Dart Biosciences
Non Equity Assistance in 2023
Dart Biosciences works in the healthcare industry. It creates tailored gene therapies for a variety of uncommon and prevalent disorders.
Stellate Therapeutics
Non Equity Assistance in 2023
Stellate Therapeutics is a private biotechnology company specializing in the development of small molecules derived from human gut bacteria to create personalized therapies for neurological diseases. The company focuses on addressing age-related neurological conditions, particularly through its research on the gut-brain axis. Stellate has developed a portfolio of drug candidates, including AMA-101, which aims to be a first-in-class therapy for Parkinson's disease. Through its microbiome-derived medicine platform, Stellate Therapeutics is engaged in comprehensive research and has established capabilities in discovery, screening, production, and diagnostic development, striving to provide effective treatments for neurological disorders.
Benten Technologies
Non Equity Assistance in 2023
Benten Technologies is a social impact company dedicated to democratizing healthcare. The organization has secured approximately $9 million in non-dilutive funding to develop a pipeline of digital therapeutics aimed at making healthcare services more accessible. In addition to its healthcare initiatives, Benten Technologies also provides technology consulting services, which encompass application development, management consulting, quality assurance, and research and development. By leveraging proven system integration methodologies and expertise, the company enables organizations to deliver effective, value-driven business solutions.
Ember Sleep
Non Equity Assistance in 2023
Ember Sleep is a company focused on improving sleep quality through its innovative sleep apnea treatment platform. The platform features medical devices designed to be more comfortable, effective, and non-invasive for the treatment of sleep apnea. By providing a novel approach to open the airway, Ember Sleep aims to enhance the well-being of patients, enabling them to feel more rested while assisting healthcare professionals in delivering better health outcomes.
KardioStatus
Non Equity Assistance in 2023
KardioStatus specializes in transforming biometric data into actionable therapeutics. The KardioStatus platform has a wide range of features created by premiere physicians and engineers to develop a patient's unique biometric profile and provide personalized clinical therapeutics.
Oculogenex
Non Equity Assistance in 2022
Oculogenex is a biopharmaceutical company that specializes in gene therapy for the treatment of retinal disorders. The company was founded in 2020 and is headquartered in La Habra, California.
Canopie
Non Equity Assistance in 2021
Canopie offers a digital platform that addresses symptoms of maternal depression and anxiety. It aims to prevent and address maternal mental health disorders through customized, audio-based programs and automated coaching using clinically validated, recommended therapeutic techniques. Canopie works with cities, payers, health systems, and providers to deliver effective, low-cost care to moms that works for them and can be easily scaled - tackling the key treatment barriers of cost, scheduling, time, and stigma.
miniMarrow
Non Equity Assistance in 2021
miniMarrow presents a new disruptive therapeutic approach for the in-situ production of blood components in leukemic patients to replace weekly and burdensome transfusions markedly increasing patient quality-of-life. miniMarrow is operating in stealth mode. miniMarrow was established in Renens, Vaud
Oculogenex
Non Equity Assistance in 2021
Oculogenex is a biopharmaceutical company that specializes in gene therapy for the treatment of retinal disorders. The company was founded in 2020 and is headquartered in La Habra, California.
Ronawk
Non Equity Assistance in 2021
Ronawk is a biotechnology company that specializes in the development of T-Block technology, which produces patient-specific biologics for the treatment of diseases, including cancer, organ injuries, and burns. The company has created a proprietary method for growing primary stem cells in a three-dimensional environment, allowing these cells to retain their essential characteristics outside the body. This innovative approach enables the rapid expansion of stem cells, making them suitable for early-stage diagnostics and the repair of injured tissues. Additionally, Ronawk focuses on preserving primary cells from patients for future use in reconstructive surgeries, thereby enhancing the efficiency and density of human cell growth for tissue generation and disease modeling.
SafetySit
Non Equity Assistance in 2021
SafetySit develops an assistive therapeutic medical device to support disabled or recovering patients to sit in an upright position.
Selmod
Non Equity Assistance in 2021
Selmod, based in Basel, Switzerland, specializes in developing innovative therapies aimed at treating life-threatening, multi-drug resistant infections. The company focuses on discovering and advancing small molecules and peptides that target new mechanisms of action, addressing the urgent need for effective treatments in hospital settings where first-line therapies have failed. Selmod aims to provide second-line and last-resort options through a disruptive approach that incorporates dual modes of action to overcome resistance mechanisms. The company's lead candidates, SLM500, SLM100, and SLM300, have shown promise in preclinical studies, with market projections indicating a total available market exceeding $9 billion. With an experienced leadership team skilled in advancing clinical candidates for major pharmaceutical companies, Selmod plans to utilize funding to advance three IND-enabling candidates and six lead-optimized candidates into proof-of-concept stages.
ModoScript
Non Equity Assistance in 2021
ModoScript develops a B2B hardware SaaS solution focused on remote treatment monitoring and big data analytics to enhance medication and treatment protocol efficiency. The company specializes in high-cost specialty pharmaceuticals, particularly Oral Oncolytics, and aims to leverage treatment progress data to create more personalized and safer therapies. By targeting pharmaceutical companies, health insurance providers, and medical practices, ModoScript facilitates the delivery of remote treatment care for patients with cancer and other chronic conditions. Their customizable data analytics model allows for real-time assessment of treatment effectiveness while ensuring that patients can access the service at no cost. Distribution partners include mail-order specialty pharmacies and in-office integrated pharmacies. ModoScript is committed to improving patient outcomes and ensuring equitable access to high-quality care, regardless of patients' backgrounds or socioeconomic status.
Akttyva Therapeutics
Non Equity Assistance in 2021
Akttyva Therapeutics specializes in the development of targeted therapeutics aimed at addressing cell barrier dysfunction associated with various vascular disorders. The company leverages a deep understanding of biological pathways, along with advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques, to design solutions that enhance the treatment of these conditions. Through its innovative approach, Akttyva Therapeutics seeks to provide healthcare professionals with effective tools to manage and treat disorders related to cell barriers.
React4life
Non Equity Assistance in 2021
React4life is an Italian biotech company established in 2016 by Silvia Scaglione and Maurizio Aiello, following over 15 years of research and development. The company focuses on advancing biomedical research through its innovative technology, MIVO® (Multi In Vitro Organ), which represents a next-generation organ-on-a-chip system. This microphysiological platform allows researchers to simulate human biology more accurately in laboratory settings, addressing the limitations of traditional in vitro assays and animal testing. React4life's technology enhances the reliability and predictivity of various applications, including pharmaceutical drug testing, personalized medicine, immuno-oncology therapies, cosmetics, dermatology, and nutraceuticals. By enabling the cultivation of three-dimensional human-like tissues for in vitro testing, React4life aims to improve the effectiveness of laboratory experiments and promote ethical research practices.
Kobara Medical
Non Equity Assistance in 2021
Kobara Medical is focused on addressing the heart failure market, specifically targeting Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF), a condition impacting over three million individuals and on the rise. The company has developed a minimally invasive therapeutic device that utilizes neuromodulation therapies to improve cardiac function without the need for invasive procedures. By employing the heart's transverse pericardial sinus, the device allows for multi-chamber pacing and combines multiple leads into a single, elegant solution, thus avoiding the complications associated with penetrating blood vessels. Kobara Medical aims to enhance treatment options for patients suffering from heart failure and cardiac arrhythmias by leveraging innovative approaches to heart anatomy.
TissueLabs
Non Equity Assistance in 2021
TissueLabs is the platform for creating organs and tissues in the lab. We offer biomaterials, equipment, and services to support tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Our products are created to allow performing state-of-the-art research, from drug discovery to organ fabrication. Currently, we are focused on attending the academic life sciences market. In the future, our mission is to fabricate lab-grown tissues and organs, for both research and therapeutic applications.
Wyss Center
Non Equity Assistance in 2021
Epios personalized and precision management of brain disorders using daily life monitoring and therapeutics. The Epios system comprises a series of thin leads incorporating sensing electrodes and a miniature implant, inserted beneath the skin. The neural signals are wirelessly transmitted to an external receiver held in place on the skin directly over the implant with a magnet, and from there are conveyed to a wearable data processor and are finally securely stored in the Epios Cloud.
Matricelf
Non Equity Assistance in 2021
Matricelf is a biotechnology company focused on the development of advanced tissue and organ engineering solutions. Established in 2019 by Professor Tal Dvir from Tel Aviv University, the company utilizes a proprietary decellularization process to extract stromal cells and extracellular matrix (ECM) from small omental biopsy samples. This process produces a thermo-responsive hydrogel that incorporates reprogrammed induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), which are differentiated into functional tissues using a patent-pending methodology. Matricelf's innovative approach aims to reduce the risk of implant rejection and includes the production of spinal cord implants designed for patients with traumatic spinal cord injuries. These implants help restore neuronal activity and motor functions, enabling patients to reintegrate into their communities and improve their daily lives. The company is committed to advancing medical treatments through its platform for autologous matrix and cell implants, addressing a wide range of medical conditions.
UpLift Health
Non Equity Assistance in 2021
UpLift Health Inc., known as UpLift, is dedicated to developing a digital application aimed at treating depression through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Founded in 2018 and based in Atlanta, Georgia, UpLift offers a structured program that consists of twelve weekly sessions, each lasting approximately 40 minutes. During these sessions, users engage with chatbot-guided interactions that help them learn effective coping skills. In addition to the sessions, the application provides daily tools and challenges that allow users to apply what they have learned in their everyday lives. A pilot study has demonstrated that this program can reduce symptoms of depression by 52%. UpLift's mission is to significantly impact mental health by assisting one million individuals in overcoming depression.
Sano Chemicals
Non Equity Assistance in 2020
Sano Chemicals is an early-stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative anti-infectives for both clinical and agricultural applications. The company aims to enhance health and promote a sustainable environment through its unique products. Sano Chemicals specializes in antifungal treatments, particularly targeting fungal infections in humans as well as bio-control methods for crops. One of their key compounds, occidiofungin, is a novel antifungal discovered by researchers at Mississippi State University and Texas A&M University. The company is working on various applications of occidiofungin to address fungal infections affecting nails, skin, and systemic health, while also developing solutions to combat fungal diseases in plants. Through these efforts, Sano Chemicals seeks to revolutionize the antifungal industry and improve quality of life for patients and sustainable agricultural practices.
Tremedics
Non Equity Assistance in 2020
Tremedics develops bioresorbable technology for congenital heart disease patients with congenital heart disease need devices that resorb within their bodies as they grow. Their technology utilises a minimally invasive surgery procedure for stent delivery and permits vessel growth as the stent resorbs in the body.
Tzofen Biological Therapeutics
Non Equity Assistance in 2020
TZOFEN biological therapeutics are developing a novel biological platform for the treatment of various cancer types.
Bloomsbury
Non Equity Assistance in 2020
Bloomsbury is a company that leverages Artificial Intelligence and Big Data to enhance the pharmaceutical industry. It focuses on identifying new indications for existing drugs, aiming to streamline the drug discovery process by reducing associated time, costs, and risks. Through its innovative approach, Bloomsbury seeks to improve efficiency in bringing new therapeutic options to market while maximizing the potential of already developed medications.
Aniluxx Biotechnology
Non Equity Assistance in 2020
Aniluxx Biotechnology, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative topical therapeutics for companion animals, specifically targeting skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis and osteoarthritis. Founded in 2019 and located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, the company aims to improve the health and well-being of pets by utilizing a pipeline of topically formulated therapeutics based on compounds that have demonstrated safety and efficacy in humans. These therapeutics are designed to be easy to apply and virtually unnoticeable, minimizing the harsh side effects commonly associated with systemic medications. Through its efforts, Aniluxx Biotechnology seeks to provide effective and user-friendly treatment options for dogs, cats, and horses suffering from various skin conditions.
Tellus Therapeutics
Non Equity Assistance in 2020
Tellus Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company based in Hillsborough, North Carolina, founded in 2018. The company focuses on developing innovative small molecules derived from human maternal breast milk to address unmet medical needs in newborns, particularly those with perinatal brain injury. Its lead drug aims to promote the regeneration of myelin-producing oligodendrocytes and reverse white matter injury in premature infants. By providing effective treatments for all babies at risk of brain injury, Tellus Therapeutics seeks to enhance neurodevelopmental outcomes for these vulnerable children.
InvivoSciences
Non Equity Assistance in 2020
We provide phenotypic compound screening services for first-in-class drug discovery and drug repositioning. Our unique combination of tissue engineering technology with assay automation and sample miniaturization offers a rapid and cost effective platform for unprecedented therapeutic discovery.As our name implies, the core of InvivoSciences mission is the research and development of engineered tissue-based assays that are superior because they mimic the function of living organisms, specifically those of animals and humans.
Clara Biotech
Non Equity Assistance in 2020
Clara Biotech is a platform technology that allow for the isolation of specific cellular markers (exosomes) from very small fluid samples enabling liquid biopsy for the very early detection of cancer, Alzheimer's Disease and many others. These same markers can also be turned into a precision medicine drug delivery platform delivering targeted drugs directly to the cells being targeted. The current gold standard is a 12 hours ultra-centrifugation process. Ours is the only platform that can take any biofluid source, and extract any species of pure viable exosome into pure solution. We are the bridge that moves research to patient. Exosomes are one of the next major breakthroughs in Biotech. We are Clara. We are exosomes.
Marigold Health
Non Equity Assistance in 2019
Marigold Health operates a social network community platform designed to provide text-based group therapies for individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges. The platform facilitates anonymous support groups, allowing patients to engage with one another and receive guidance from coaches who have personal recovery experiences. By leveraging AI-augmented chat support, Marigold Health enhances the capacity of care teams while ensuring that patients receive personalized, stigma-free assistance. The company collaborates directly with treatment providers and managed care organizations within the Medicaid market to improve access to on-demand group therapies and foster a supportive community for recovery.
Artiria Medical
Grant in 2019
Artiria Medical SA develops innovative micro-actuated devices aimed at treating vascular diseases, particularly in the brain. Founded in 2019 and based in Lausanne, Switzerland, the company focuses on enhancing the precision and control of surgical procedures involving catheters and guidewires. Its technology facilitates micromotion within brain arteries, thereby improving navigation during stroke treatments. By enabling surgeons to perform these complex procedures with greater accuracy, Artiria Medical contributes to better patient outcomes and the potential to save lives.
Axonis Therapeutics
Non Equity Assistance in 2019
Axonis Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on developing therapies for neurological disorders by targeting KCC2, a key mediator of inhibition in the brain. The company utilizes a proprietary discovery engine centered on the neuron-specific K-Cl cotransporter (KCC2) to address various conditions, including epilepsy and pain, as well as other central nervous system pathologies. By harnessing breakthrough research from institutions such as Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard, and Laval University, Axonis aims to enhance the lives of individuals affected by these disorders through improved modulation of neuronal inhibition.
ANIMATUS BIOSCIENCES
Non Equity Assistance in 2019
Animatus Biosciences develops technology that can control networks of genes to regenerate cardiac tissue. Their two mRNA combinations, AN-153, are modified to make altered proteins that regulate key cellular pathways in cardiac cells.
Terapet
Non Equity Assistance in 2019
Terapet was founded at CERN by two physicists – Christina Vallgren and Marcus Palm – along with Professor Raymond Miralbell from the Geneva University Hospitals (HUG). They have already proven the feasibility of their concept and are now developing an initial version for market launch.
CrystalsFirst
Non Equity Assistance in 2019
CrystalsFirst GmbH specializes in protein crystal stabilization techniques to enhance drug candidate screening, primarily serving pharmaceutical companies. Founded in 2018 and based in Marburg, Germany, the company offers innovative solutions such as SmartSoak technology for screening small molecule arrays, SmartLib for fragment-based drug discovery, and SmartRefine for automated crystallographic data refinement. Their MAGNET platform represents a significant advancement in drug discovery, integrating high-performance structural biology with generative AI and machine learning to identify novel molecules and druggable binding sites. By employing a "crystal structure first" approach, CrystalsFirst facilitates rational drug design and provides valuable insights into target interactions. The company's methodologies enable rapid access to diverse chemical scaffolds, thereby accelerating the discovery of effective therapeutic compounds and enhancing the overall efficiency of the drug development process.
SiNON Therapeutics
Non Equity Assistance in 2019
Sinon Therapeutics is focused on enhancing the treatment of debilitating neurological diseases by improving drug delivery across the blood-brain barrier. The company has developed a drug delivery platform that enables pharmaceutical firms to encapsulate medications, which enhances their localization to the brain. This innovative approach allows for more effective administration of doses while reducing the risks of toxicity and side effects. By facilitating better drug distribution, Sinon Therapeutics aims to significantly improve the lives of patients suffering from these challenging conditions.
Haima Therapeutics
Non Equity Assistance in 2019
Haima Therapeutics is a pre-clinical stage biotechnology company dedicated to developing bio-inspired therapies for the treatment of bleeding and various blood-related disorders. The company focuses on creating platelet-inspired therapeutics that address conditions where platelets are crucial, such as thrombosis, inflammation, and cancer. Its innovative technology involves fully-synthetic nanoparticle-based hemostatic solutions designed to mitigate bleeding by enhancing the body's natural clotting mechanisms at the injury site. This approach aims to facilitate faster recovery for patients undergoing traumatic injuries, surgeries, and other blood-related health issues.
EBAMed
Grant in 2018
EBAMed SA is a Swiss startup based in Geneva, established in 2018, that focuses on developing innovative medical technology for treating heart arrhythmias. The company is working on an ultrasound-based device designed to monitor heart motion and facilitate non-invasive ablation therapy using proton beams. This technology aims to provide a safe and effective alternative for patients by allowing real-time synchronization of proton therapy with heart movement. By integrating both hardware and software components, EBAMed's device enhances treatment capabilities for existing proton therapy centers, enabling them to offer advanced, non-invasive treatment options for cardiac patients in an outpatient setting.
NovoThelium
Non Equity Assistance in 2018
NovoThelium is a biotechnology company developing a tissue-engineered nipple matrix for use in breast reconstruction. NovoThelium was founded in 2015 by biomedical engineers with family histories of breast cancer to work on nipple regeneration after mastectomy. NovoThelium is developing a bioengineered matrix that enables patients to regenerate a nipple made from their own cells that maintains projection, has natural pigmentation, and improved sensation.
Ematik System
Non Equity Assistance in 2018
Prometheus is a biotech company. They provide solutions for veterinary and human regenerative medicine. They have developed ematik, a line of veterinary medicine products using platelet-rich plasma for cell and tissue regeneration. Their product is ematik ready, a veterinary plaster for the treatment of animal wounds in dogs, cats, and horses.
ALAnostics
Non Equity Assistance in 2018
ALAnostics is a biopharmaceutical company that specializes in oncodiagnostics, originating as a spin-off from the University of Geneva. The company focuses on developing innovative tumour painting technology designed to assist surgeons in the real-time identification and removal of breast cancer during surgery. By utilizing nanomedicines for fluorescence-guided surgery, along with 5-ALA prodrugs for photodynamic therapy and light-activated antimicrobials, ALAnostics aims to enhance the accuracy of tumor removal, ultimately improving patient outcomes and saving lives.
LIfT BioSciences
Non Equity Assistance in 2018
LIfT BioSciences is a biotechnology company based in London, England, founded in 2016. The company specializes in a novel allogeneic innate immuno-cell therapy platform known as Neutrophil Only Leukocyte Infusion Therapy (N-LIfT). This platform enables the large-scale production of Immunomodulatory Alpha Neutrophils (IMANs) derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) for various therapeutic applications. LIfT BioSciences focuses on developing CAR neutrophil cell therapies that address the limitations of existing treatments for solid tumors. These therapies work by directly attacking tumors and indirectly enhancing the immune response, effectively transforming the tumor microenvironment to recruit additional immune cells for a more robust and lasting attack on the cancer. By employing proprietary enhancement media and genetic engineering, LIfT BioSciences aims to significantly increase the cancer-fighting capabilities of these engineered cells, potentially providing patients with greatly improved therapeutic outcomes.
Kernal Biologics
Non Equity Assistance in 2018
Kernal Biologics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on designing and developing mRNA immunotherapies for diseases such as COVID-19 and cancer. Founded in 2016, the company utilizes its mRNA platform to enable specific cells to produce their own therapeutic agents. Kernal's innovative approach has garnered recognition, including awards from notable organizations like Amgen and NASA. The team behind Kernal Biologics has strong ties to prestigious institutions such as MIT and Harvard, along with extensive experience in the biotech sector, which underpins their expertise in the mRNA field.
SPIRROW THERAPEUTICS
Non Equity Assistance in 2018
Spirrow Therapeutics provides lung restoration to babies suffering from ARDS by using new proprietary methods. They provide polymer lung surfactant to low complexity synthesis and formulation, interface affinity exceeds competing agents, reduces alveolar surface tension, and fluid accumulation.
AUGMENTx
Non Equity Assistance in 2018
AUGMENTx develops an augmented reality-based digital platform aimed at enhancing rehabilitation in the medical sector, particularly for neurological therapy. This subscription-based platform allows users to access therapy from home, utilizing standardized protocols and data-driven methods tailored to individual recovery needs. The company's primary focus is to clinically validate its stroke rehabilitation platform, with plans to expand its applications to address chronic pain and orthopedic injuries. By facilitating remote therapy, AUGMENTx empowers healthcare providers to monitor and optimize the mental health and recovery of patients requiring long-term rehabilitation.
BioTrak Therapeutics
Non Equity Assistance in 2018
BioTrak is digital therapeutics platform company with smartphone products which deliver evidence-based, preventative treatment of stress-related disorders such as migraine, multiple sclerosis, depression, chronic pain, and anxiety. The first of a series of products is Ease: Headache and Migraine™, which was launched Q1’ 19. Three (3) billion people worldwide suffer from severe tension-type headaches and migraine. Ease, which delivers clinically-tested behavioral interventions on a mobile platform, is superior in clinical effectiveness, safety, cost, and convenience compared to the most advanced migraine drugs. Ease is positioned to be used either alone or adjunctively with conventional drug therapies. Ease: Headache & Migraine™ is digital therapeutic app that delivers clinically-proven, effective behavioral therapy. Ease has been shown to be as effective as in-office treatment, resulting in 60% reduction in headache frequency and disability. Ease is a brand new approach to addressing the severely unmet need for a scalable, affordable, safe and effective treatment option for the estimated 3 billion people who suffer from tension headache and migraine worldwide.
ReviveMed
Seed Round in 2018
ReviveMed Inc is a precision-medicine company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, founded in 2016. It specializes in a platform that utilizes data from small molecules or metabolites to derive actionable insights. The company's technology employs a network-based machine learning algorithm for the integrative analysis of untargeted metabolomic data alongside large-scale molecular information, which includes data from genes, proteins, drugs, and diseases. This innovative approach enables researchers to develop in-house therapeutics specifically targeting patients with liver diseases and related conditions, thereby aiming to improve health outcomes through the unlocking of metabolomic data's potential.
Dermafence
Non Equity Assistance in 2018
Dermafence is a medical technology company founded in 2017 and based in Jerusalem, Israel. It specializes in developing innovative products for the treatment of energy-mediated skin injuries and burns. The company's flagship offerings consist of liquid bandages that create a protective layer on the skin upon application. These devices effectively prevent the progression of wounds caused by various types of energy absorption, including thermal, mechanical, radiation, and laser-induced injuries. By providing an incision-less and scar-free healing process, Dermafence aims to enhance recovery outcomes for individuals suffering from such skin injuries.
Newormics
Non Equity Assistance in 2018
Newormics is a developer of the first high-throughput, high-content drug screening platforms for use with in vivo small animal models as well as in vitro 3D tissue constructs. The company provides proprietary microfluidics-based platforms to advance early stage drug discovery and toxicity studies for faster and better drug development with cost-effective solutions.
Diffregen
Non Equity Assistance in 2018
Diffregen is a startup dedicated to developing novel drug candidates for leukemia treatment. The company focuses on therapeutics designed to halt cancer progression while stimulating the healthy immune system. Its active ingredients are derived from Angiocidin, a protein that has demonstrated the ability to activate monocytes and promote the terminal differentiation of leukemia cells. This innovative approach aims to provide effective treatment options for patients suffering from acute myeloid leukemia.
ReachMore
Grant in 2017
ReachMore application that treats anxiety created by trauma events.
NU-RISE LDA
Grant in 2017
NU-RISE LDA helping doctors provide better cancer treatment. They have developed a probe that goes inside the body. This probe will monitor, in real-time, the level of radiation the patient is receiving. The Doctor can target the cancer but avoid the healthy organs. Better, safer and more accurate radiation - it's an evolution for cancer treatment.
Libra@Home
Grant in 2017
Libra@Home has developed a fully immersive virtual reality tool for physical and occupational therapists to improve the delivery and quality of treatment to patients with neurological disorders, both in the clinic and at home. This neurorehabilitation platform uses virtual reality to deliver therapeutic stimuli and sensors and wearables to monitor patient outcomes and track performance.
Cellino
Grant in 2017
Cellino is focused on creating an automated biomanufacturing system for personalized cell therapies, with the aim of making these treatments widely accessible. The company leverages an AI-guided laser editing platform that employs image-guided machine learning and robotics to generate autologous induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) at scale. This innovative approach is designed to facilitate the development of potentially curative therapies for chronic degenerative diseases, such as vision loss and Parkinson's disease. By streamlining the process of cell therapy production, Cellino aims to enhance the availability of life-saving medicines for patients around the world.
Akanocure Pharmaceuticals
Grant in 2017
Akanocure Pharmaceuticals is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative anti-cancer chemotherapeutic drugs aimed at treating various forms of cancer. The company is dedicated to finding therapeutic approaches that effectively block the metastatic processes responsible for 90% of cancer-related deaths. By harnessing the expertise of its team throughout the drug discovery and development phases, Akanocure aims to create novel small molecules derived from natural resources. These bio-targeted therapeutics are designed not only to combat cancer but also to alleviate the side effects associated with chemotherapy and other cancer treatments, ultimately improving the quality of life for patients.
General Biotechnologies
Grant in 2017
General Biotechnologies identifies and develops undervalued discoveries in the life sciences. Their flagship program — Nivien Therapeutics — is a venture-backed oncology startup spun out of Harvard Medical School.
IbtiCare
Grant in 2017
IbtiCare specializes in advanced antibacterial technology that utilizes Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) to create coatings with nanoparticles that render surfaces antibacterial. This innovative solution effectively targets and eliminates a broad spectrum of dangerous bacteria, including those resistant to conventional drugs. The technology is designed to be fast-reactive, durable, and stable, ensuring long-lasting protection for various surfaces. IbtiCare's antibacterial solution has successfully passed clinical trials and has received validation from leaders in the healthcare sector, positioning it as a superior alternative to traditional antibacterial methods. The company's mission is to combat bacterial infections and enhance safety across multiple environments.
Reminisciences
Grant in 2017
Reminisciences develops a symbiotic treatment and a companion diagnostic for Alzheimer's disease through targeting the gut microbiome. Reminisciences exploits the crucial role of gut microbiota in human physiology and more specifically as we have discovered in Alzheimer's disease. There is no effective treatment for Alzheimer, despite 51 million patients in need. Our company develops 2 products: CerebralX, a symbiotic therapeutic treatment to restore altered gut microbiota and stop or delay Alzheimer's disease, and ReminiTest, a diagnostic based upon microbiota profiling.
Pykus Therapeutics
Grant in 2017
Pykus Therapeutics, Inc. is a medical technology company based in Boston, Massachusetts, founded in 2016 by ophthalmology residents. The company specializes in developing a dissolvable intraocular surgical device designed to enhance the experience of patients undergoing retinal surgery. Its innovative polymer-based hydrogel serves as a replacement for traditional intraocular gas, which can impose significant burdens on patients, such as the need for face-down positioning and prolonged periods of visual impairment. By utilizing this biodegradable hydrogel, Pykus Therapeutics aims to improve surgical outcomes and patient comfort, facilitating a faster and more comfortable recovery process after retinal procedures.
Structured Immunity
Grant in 2017
Structured Immunity is a protein engineering company focused on enhancing the safety and effectiveness of T cell receptor-based therapies. Founded in 2017 by David Hardwicke and Timothy Riley, the company leverages over 20 years of research from the laboratory of Brian Baker to develop advanced techniques in structural immunology. By optimizing T cell receptors, Structured Immunity aims to improve target specificity in cell-based cancer immunotherapy, thereby increasing drug efficacy and reducing side effects. The company provides pharmaceutical firms with the tools necessary to engineer innovative and patentable cellular cancer therapies that feature enhanced tumor targeting technology.
HAYA Therapeutics
Grant in 2017
HAYA Therapeutics is focused on developing RNA-based therapeutics aimed at treating heart failure and other fibrotic diseases. The company's innovative approach involves targeting a heart-specific regulator of fibrosis, specifically a long noncoding RNA, to block myocardial fibrosis. This biopharmaceutical therapy aims to improve the efficacy and safety of treatment for heart-related illnesses and other serious health conditions associated with aging, including cancer. By concentrating on tissue and cell-selective genomic medicines, HAYA Therapeutics seeks to provide more precise and effective therapeutic options for patients suffering from these conditions.
Droplette
Grant in 2017
Droplette Inc., founded in 2017 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, specializes in the development of a needle-free skincare device that utilizes a patent-pending transdermal delivery system. This innovative technology allows for the delivery of drugs up to 60% larger than traditional treatments, penetrating deeply into the skin over large surface areas. The device is designed to be painless, contact-free, and portable, generating no disposables. Initially aimed at delivering antibiotics for serious skin conditions such as ulcers and infections, Droplette also envisions future applications for localized delivery of chemotherapeutics for skin cancer and anti-aging treatments. By enabling effective skincare without harmful chemicals, Droplette aims to transform skin health through scientific advancement.
Marigold Health
Grant in 2017
Marigold Health operates a social network community platform designed to provide text-based group therapies for individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges. The platform facilitates anonymous support groups, allowing patients to engage with one another and receive guidance from coaches who have personal recovery experiences. By leveraging AI-augmented chat support, Marigold Health enhances the capacity of care teams while ensuring that patients receive personalized, stigma-free assistance. The company collaborates directly with treatment providers and managed care organizations within the Medicaid market to improve access to on-demand group therapies and foster a supportive community for recovery.
Reveal Pharmaceuticals
Grant in 2017
Reveal Pharmaceuticals focuses on developing innovative MRI contrast agents that provide a gadolinium-free alternative to existing gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs). The company aims to enhance medical imaging safety for all patients, particularly those at risk from gadolinium exposure. Its pipeline includes precision imaging agents designed to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as pulmonary embolism and cancer. By integrating its patented gadolinium-free RVP platform with targeted molecular probes, Reveal Pharmaceuticals enables healthcare professionals to conduct safer scans without the need for biopsies, thereby supporting the advancement of targeted therapeutics and personalized medicine.
Octagon Therapeutics
Non Equity Assistance in 2017
Octagon Therapeutics, Inc. is a preclinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on developing innovative antibiotic medicines for life-threatening autoimmune diseases such as Pemphigus Vulgaris, Systemic Lupus, and Multiple Sclerosis. Founded in 2016, the company is dedicated to addressing multi-drug resistant infections and has shown effectiveness against critical pathogens identified by the World Health Organization. Octagon's targeted immunomodulator medicines aim to restore immune balance in patients with chronic autoimmune and inflammatory conditions by selectively targeting dysregulated immune cells, thereby helping patients avoid chronic immunosuppression. The company's operations are supported by a state-of-the-art facility adjacent to Harvard University, enabling efficient development of its therapies with minimal overhead. The management team comprises experienced scientists, clinicians, and entrepreneurs, contributing to a growing pool of research talent dedicated to advancing drug development.
ReviveMed
Non Equity Assistance in 2017
ReviveMed Inc is a precision-medicine company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, founded in 2016. It specializes in a platform that utilizes data from small molecules or metabolites to derive actionable insights. The company's technology employs a network-based machine learning algorithm for the integrative analysis of untargeted metabolomic data alongside large-scale molecular information, which includes data from genes, proteins, drugs, and diseases. This innovative approach enables researchers to develop in-house therapeutics specifically targeting patients with liver diseases and related conditions, thereby aiming to improve health outcomes through the unlocking of metabolomic data's potential.
Versantis
Series A in 2017
Versantis AG is a Swiss pharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative medicines and diagnostics for liver diseases. Founded in 2015 and based in Zurich, the company is dedicated to addressing the unmet medical needs of patients globally. Its lead candidate, VS-01, is in the preclinical stage and aims to be the first drug for acute liver disease, with the unique capability of supporting multiple organ function. VS-01 has received Orphan Drug Designation for acute liver failure, highlighting its potential in treating rare conditions. Additionally, Versantis is advancing other products in its pipeline, including VS-02 and VS-03, which target chronic liver diseases and drug intoxications, respectively. These developments represent significant opportunities for improving patient outcomes in the field of liver health and beyond.
Hyasynth
Grant in 2016
Hyasynth is a bioengineering company focused on producing cannabinoid products through precision fermentation, significantly reducing the environmental impact associated with the traditional cultivation of plants. By employing a scalable and cost-efficient fermentation process, Hyasynth eliminates over 97% of the carbon footprint typically associated with the CBD market, which is valued at $12 billion globally. Their innovative approach combines traditional and modern biological techniques with computational insights to develop organisms designed to address various health issues, such as multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and Alzheimer's disease. This technology allows for the creation of regulatory-compliant products aimed at improving patient health without the need for plant cultivation.
RetiSpec
Grant in 2016
RetiSpec is developing a non-invasive eye scanner for early detection of Alzheimer’s Disease pathology years before symptoms occur, so that clinicians can intervene with emerging therapeutics early, when there’s a chance of actually impacting the disease.
Dover Lifesciences
Grant in 2016
DLS is creating new drugs to treat metabolic and cardiovascular diseases by mimicking favorable genotypes/phenotypes in nature. Some people are thinner than others, and DLS has identified a mutation in humans that causes thinness. The mutation in the target protein causes loss-of-function leading to the wasting of energy in the body and results in thinness. DLS is in the process of creating a small molecule inhibitor to the target protein that will similarly cause an inefficient metabolism and lead to thinness regardless of the cause of obesity. Following nature's example provides a safer path to curing obesity.
Tucuxi
Grant in 2016
Many drugs are traditionally prescribed at standard dosage despite a high variability of their absorption and disposition between patients. For critical drugs (anticancer, anti-HIV, antifungals, anti-epileptics, psychotropic agents etc.), too low concentrations may lead to inefficacy and sometimes selection of drug-resistant cells or viruses. Conversely, too high concentrations increase the risks of adverse effects and toxicity. Such drugs are said to have a “narrow therapeutic margin”. Monitoring of circulating drug concentrations in the patients, also called “therapeutic drug monitoring” (TDM), represents the best way to optimize drug dosage and prevent toxicity or lack of effectiveness, when no accurate efficacy markers are measurable. Still TDM has slowly developed until recently, because both the drug measurement and the interpretation of concentration results were demanding. During the last decade, laboratory technologies have markedly progressed and no longer represent a limiting factor. At present, dozens of drugs can be easily analyzed. A prerequisite for the wide accessibility of TDM to all patients that require it is that physicians, pharmacists, nurses and even patients can easily interpret drug concentration results and adjust therapies accordingly.
SimplicityBio
Grant in 2016
SimplicityBio’s vision is to be one of the world’s leading biomarker discovery companies in the molecular diagnostic market, providing to our clients services and products based on robust signatures using multiple biomarkers. The company's range of services include biomarker discovery and ranking, signature creation, and existent signature improvement. Furthermore, it develops science, IP, and white paper technologies for its clients. SimplicityBio was founded in 2013 by Matthew Hall, Pedro Faustino, and Miguel Barreto and is based in Monthey.
MiMecore Therapeutics
Grant in 2016
MiMecore Therapeutics is an emerging glycobiologics company developing a novel suite of biomimetic proteoglycan molecules with the potential to provide a ground-breaking therapeutic approach to the restoration and repair of soft and connective tissues of the body damaged through aging and disease. The Company’s glycotherapeutic strategy presents a biologically innovative platform for restoring and maintaining the structure and function of the dermal extracellular matrix.
MediSieve
Grant in 2016
MediSieve Ltd. is a medical device company based in London, United Kingdom, focused on developing Magnetic Blood Filtration (MBF) technology to treat blood-borne diseases. Established in 2014, the company has created a blood filtration device that magnetically removes infected blood cells, enabling the treatment of conditions such as malaria, leukemia, and sepsis. The MBF system operates by circulating a patient’s blood through an external loop where targeted magnetic particles bind to disease-relevant targets. The blood then passes through a magnetic filter that captures these particles and bound targets, allowing the unaffected blood to be returned to the patient. MediSieve's innovative approach also aims to enhance the safety and efficacy of existing therapies while expanding the range of treatable diseases. The company operates from the Imperial Incubator in White City, London, where it has specialized laboratory facilities for product development and validation.
PathoVax
Grant in 2016
PathoVax is a biotech start-up from Johns Hopkins commercializing RGVax, the world’s first low-cost Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine targeting all clinically relevant types. Current vaccines target some cancer-causing HPVs and only focus on sexual transmitted types, resulting in low uptake due to the incomplete coverage and social stigma. Established animal studies have confirmed RGVax’s protection against all 15 oncogenic types and the added coverage against skin HPVs positions RGVax as a childhood vaccine, allowing unrivalled early market entry in a segment with superior uptake.
Luminopia
Grant in 2016
Luminopia is focused on developing innovative treatments for significant neuro-visual disorders, particularly amblyopia, commonly known as lazy eye, which is a leading cause of vision loss in children. The company is creating digital therapeutics that undergo rigorous evaluation for FDA approval while ensuring they are engaging for patients. In collaboration with Boston Children's Hospital, Luminopia is advancing its primary product, Luminopia One, which utilizes a binocular therapeutic approach to effectively address amblyopia. This development aims to enhance the capabilities of healthcare professionals in treating these critical vision disorders.
NangioTx
Grant in 2016
NangioTx, Inc. is a pharmaceutical company based in New York, focused on developing innovative peptide-drug formulations aimed at blood-vessel regeneration. The company's lead product, V-10, is a proprietary injectable drug designed to create new blood vessels, specifically targeting peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition that currently lacks an FDA-approved treatment. PAD results in inadequate blood flow to the legs, leading to tissue damage and potential limb amputation. V-10 is characterized by its localized and minimally invasive application, which not only reverses the effects of the disease but is also cost-efficient. NangioTx has secured intellectual property rights and maintains a clear path for market entry, positioning itself as a pioneer in addressing a critical unmet medical need.
JustMilk
Grant in 2016
JustMilk is a nonprofit organization focused on creating an innovative device that enables safe delivery of life-saving medications and nutrients to breastfeeding infants. This thin, disposable silicone device is designed to hold a dispersible therapeutic tablet, which releases medicine directly into the breast milk consumed by the infant. It is capable of administering a variety of medications, including antibiotics, analgesics, antiretrovirals, and vitamins, without the need for measurement or literacy, addressing potential barriers to proper dosing. The device is hygienic, as it is disposable and does not require refrigeration, making it ideal for low-resource settings as well as broader markets. By facilitating medication delivery during breastfeeding, JustMilk aims to enhance patient compliance and promote breastfeeding, potentially saving lives and improving health outcomes for infants.
PRAGMA Therapeutics
Grant in 2016
PRAGMA Therapeutics is a French leading neuroscience biotech company discovering and developing proprietary small molecule therapeutics for the treatment of stress-related diseases, in particular Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD), and hearing loss. Founded in 2015, PRAGMA is a flexible organization led by a team with a world-leading experience in neuroscience drug development, targeting a specific class of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCR), the metabotropic glutamate receptors family (mGluRs). PRAGMA currently develops allosteric modulators of the mGlu7 subtype which corresponds to a unique and innovative approach to regulate stress-related responses, fear and cognitive dysfunctions associated to PTSD, as well as acute and acoustic trauma-induced hearing loss. PRAGMA has integrated the new standards of drug development and aims at rapidly correlating in vivo proof-of-concept studies with target engagement and pharmacodynamic biomarkers in human in order to increase its success rate in clinical trials.
Tympanogen
Grant in 2016
Tympanogen develops novel materials to improve treatment outcomes and decrease healthcare costs for otolaryngologists and their patients. Its flagship product, Perf-Fix, is the first gel patch for nonsurgical eardrum repair.
Antera Therapeutics
Grant in 2016
Antera Therapeutics is a biotechnology company that specializes in creating therapies that will prevent allergy development in children. It helps families introduce peanuts into infants' diets in a structured and convenient way. It was founded in 2014 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts.
Angiex
Grant in 2016
Angiex was founded by world-class scientists to develop vascular-targeted biotherapeutics. Angiex targets fundamental aspects of endothelial biology with a focus on angiogenesis. Angiex’s lead product is an antibody-drug conjugate therapy for cancer. Angiex was launched with IP from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, is resident at LabCentral in Cambridge.
XenoTherapeutics
Non Equity Assistance in 2016
XenoTherapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company specializing in cell and gene therapy, with a focus on engineering immune-compatible cells, tissues, and organs. The company manages all phases of clinical product development, from genome engineering to clinical evaluation. XenoTherapeutics aims to advance the science of xenotransplantation through comprehensive education, research, development, and clinical testing, ultimately working towards practical therapeutic applications for public benefit. They emphasize accelerating the development and commercialization of live biotherapeutic products, ensuring that medical researchers can access safe, affordable, and plentiful treatments. In 2019, XenoTherapeutics achieved a significant milestone by completing the first FDA-cleared genetically engineered non-human organ transplant for investigational use.
Molecular Warehouse
Seed Round in 2016
Molecular Warehouse develops proteins for diagnostics and therapeutics. The company was incorporated in 2015 and is based in Twickenham, United Kingdom.
Recon Therapeutics
Grant in 2015
Recon Therapeutics specializes in innovative drug delivery technology aimed at enhancing the self-administration of biologic drugs. The company's flagship product, the LyoKit Disposable Reconstitution System, features a unique design that combines a standard 3mL syringe with an external pressurized water chamber. This system simplifies the reconstitution process into a single step, making it easier for patients to administer their medications. Additionally, the LyoKit is fully disposable and incorporates its own sharps container, addressing safety concerns associated with needle use. Through this technology, Recon Therapeutics seeks to improve the patient experience and streamline the administration of biologic therapies.
Blue Therapeutics
Grant in 2015
Blue Therapeutics, founded in 2015 in Waltham, Massachusetts, is a drug discovery and development company established by Ajay Yekkirala, David Roberson, Michio Painter, and Phil Portoghese. The company aims to translate decades of academic research into effective therapeutic solutions, particularly in response to the challenges posed by the opioid epidemic. By leveraging a novel receptor-interactomics approach, Blue Therapeutics focuses on creating innovative treatments that address the limitations and side effects associated with traditional pain management options, ultimately striving to improve patient outcomes.
Mifcor
Grant in 2015
MIFCOR is focused on developing innovative biologic therapeutics aimed at protecting tissue from cell death due to ischemia, a condition resulting from reduced blood flow. Their lead therapeutic candidate, MIF-2, leverages a novel biological pathway to safeguard tissue from damage associated with ischemia. The company is dedicated to treating ischemic diseases, particularly those related to heart attacks, cardiac surgeries, and acute kidney injuries. MIFCOR's therapeutics are designed to promote tissue regeneration and enhance the body's natural defenses, ultimately reducing the impact of ischemic injury on vital organs. The company has secured an exclusive option on an intellectual property portfolio and is building a strategic business plan to advance its mission.
Cogentis Therapeutics
Grant in 2015
Cogentis Therapeutics focuses on developing disease-modifying therapeutics aimed at treating various neurodegenerative diseases. The company is dedicated to discovering and creating first-in-class treatments that not only prevent neurodegeneration but also aim to restore brain function. By addressing conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal dementia, and progressive supranuclear palsy, Cogentis Therapeutics seeks to improve the quality of life for patients and their families, offering new hope in the management of these challenging conditions.
DOYA Medical
Grant in 2015
DOYA Medical specializes in the development of a noninvasive delivery technology and a stent product aimed at treating Otitis Media with Effusion. The company's innovative eStent technology facilitates the drainage of fluid from the middle ear without the need for surgical intervention, thereby reducing reliance on ear tube surgery. This approach allows patients to naturally drain fluid while supporting the body's anatomy, contrasting with traditional methods that involve cutting the eardrum and inserting tubes. DOYA Medical's focus on noninvasive treatments reflects a commitment to improving patient outcomes in ear health.
Molecular Warehouse
Non Equity Assistance in 2015
Molecular Warehouse develops proteins for diagnostics and therapeutics. The company was incorporated in 2015 and is based in Twickenham, United Kingdom.
DJS Antibodies
Non Equity Assistance in 2015
DJS Antibodies Ltd, founded in 2014 and based in Bicester, United Kingdom, focuses on the design and discovery of novel therapeutic monoclonal antibodies targeting G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). The company specializes in developing innovative therapeutics aimed at treating chronic inflammatory diseases, utilizing breakthrough technology to create first-in-class antibodies against challenging disease targets. By isolating high-quality antibodies against complex protein targets that have previously proven difficult for drug discovery, DJS Antibodies aims to provide effective treatments for conditions that are currently undruggable and untreatable.
Cocoon Biotech
Grant in 2014
Cocoon Biotech is focused on developing innovative treatments for osteoarthritis and other degenerative joint disorders using a biocompatible silk protein derived from fibroin. Their platform technology features a silk-based protein gel that can be injected into joints, providing long-lasting pain relief while potentially delaying disease progression. This approach addresses a significant treatment gap in osteoarthritis care, where there is a pressing need for effective solutions that target both symptoms and the underlying disease. By leveraging the unique properties of silk, including its strength, lubrication, and biocompatibility, Cocoon Biotech aims to enhance the quality of life for patients suffering from these conditions.
Ketogen Pharma
Grant in 2014
Ketogen Pharma is a biotechnology company focused on developing a new class of anti-epileptic therapeutics by combining the benefits of anti-seizure medications with the ketogenic diet in a pill form. The company leverages established motifs from existing anti-epileptic drugs to create carrier prodrugs that aim to enhance anticonvulsant activity while minimizing dose-related side effects. With a team possessing extensive drug development expertise, Ketogen has successfully developed two distinct and patentable chemical series that show promising results in improving seizure control for patients with epilepsy. This innovative approach seeks to provide novel and effective treatment options for individuals suffering from this condition.
Platelet BioGenesis
Grant in 2014
Platelet BioGenesis, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, that specializes in the production of donor-independent human platelets derived from pluripotent stem cells for clinical use. Founded in 2014, the company has developed a microfluidic bioreactor designed to generate functional platelets from human stem cell cultures at a commercial scale. These bioreactor-produced platelets are distributed to hospitals and blood banks, providing a vital resource for patients worldwide. The company is also focused on advancing therapeutics within the fields of biotechnology and drug discovery.
Oncolinx
Grant in 2014
Oncolinx is engaged in the development of advanced targeted cancer therapies known as antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), in collaboration with the National Cancer Institute. These ADCs utilize a patented immune-activating drug payload called Azonafide, which is specifically designed to target cancer cells while sparing healthy cells, thus minimizing the side effects commonly associated with traditional chemotherapy. The company is partnered with over 14 leading pharmaceutical companies and 6 academic laboratories worldwide, working on ADCs for 30 different cancer indications. This innovative approach not only aims to induce cancer cell death but also to stimulate the immune system, offering a potentially less painful alternative to conventional treatments. Oncolinx plans to initiate clinical trials for one of its partnered programs.
Droplette
Non Equity Assistance in 2014
Droplette Inc., founded in 2017 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, specializes in the development of a needle-free skincare device that utilizes a patent-pending transdermal delivery system. This innovative technology allows for the delivery of drugs up to 60% larger than traditional treatments, penetrating deeply into the skin over large surface areas. The device is designed to be painless, contact-free, and portable, generating no disposables. Initially aimed at delivering antibiotics for serious skin conditions such as ulcers and infections, Droplette also envisions future applications for localized delivery of chemotherapeutics for skin cancer and anti-aging treatments. By enabling effective skincare without harmful chemicals, Droplette aims to transform skin health through scientific advancement.
SQZ Biotech
Grant in 2014
SQZ Biotech is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative cell therapies for patients facing cancer, infectious diseases, and other serious health conditions. Utilizing its proprietary CellSqueeze technology, SQZ Biotech can deliver a variety of materials into diverse patient cell types, enabling the engineering of therapies that address a wide array of clinical challenges. The company aims to create well-tolerated cell therapies that not only enhance therapeutic benefits but also improve the overall patient experience compared to traditional cell therapy methods. Through a combination of internal research initiatives and external collaborations, SQZ Biotech is advancing a new generation of cellular therapies aimed at both immune activation and immune suppression.
Integrative Enzymatics
Grant in 2013
Integrative Enzymatics is a biotechnology company dedicated to developing structure-based pharmaceutical products to treat chronic metabolic disorders. The company’s primary offering is an intellectual property portfolio that consists of two drugs used for the treatment of Type I Diabetes Mellitus and Type II Diabetes Mellitus. The efficacy of both pharmaceuticals have been demonstrated in silico, in vitro, and verified through pilot animal studies. Second round animal trials are ongoing. Integrative Enzymatics has developed a proprietary method of designing pharmaceuticals. Their flagship patented drug treats diabetes.
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