Senti Biosciences is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California, focused on developing innovative gene and cell therapies using its proprietary synthetic biology platform. Founded in 2016, the company aims to address complex diseases through advanced therapeutic solutions. Senti's technology includes engineered allogeneic chimeric antigen receptor natural killer (CAR-NK) cells, which are designed to target and eliminate cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissue. Among its product candidates are SENTI-202, a Logic Gated CAR-NK cell therapy intended for cancer treatment, and SENTI-301A, which targets hepatocellular carcinoma. Senti Biosciences operates as a resident company at Johnson & Johnson Innovation's JLABS in South San Francisco, collaborating with experts in synthetic biology and computation to advance its therapeutic developments.
Developer of life sciences technology intended to develop highly effective and differentiated treatments for cystic fibrosis. The company is developing first-in-class small molecules that are focused on a unique target with the potential to fully normalize CFTR function for the first time for the vast majority of people living with cystic fibrosis, enabling patients with best-in-class efficacy and reach and long-term benefit for people with cystic fibrosis.
SalioGen Therapeutics advances in curative genetic therapies using its Exact DNA Integration Technology (EDIT) platform, a mammal-derived genome engineering technology. It is focused on providing durable, safe, and affordable non-viral gene therapies to more patients with inherited diseases. Looking ahead, SalioGen will also explore the EDIT platform’s capabilities to streamline cell therapy, cell engineering, and biologics manufacturing to help an even broader population of patients in need.
DNA Script SAS, founded in 2014 and based in Paris, France, specializes in synthetic biology tools and innovative DNA synthesis technology. The company has developed a groundbreaking enzymatic technology that powers the SYNTAX, the world's first benchtop DNA printer. This device allows laboratories to produce synthetic oligonucleotides on-site, significantly enhancing workflow control and expediting access to results. By employing an efficient biochemical process for nucleic acid synthesis, DNA Script enables researchers to rapidly generate essential genomic materials, such as oligonucleotides, which are crucial for genomics and molecular biology applications. Through its advancements, DNA Script aims to facilitate breakthroughs in life sciences and human health.
Ginkgo Bioworks, founded in 2008 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, specializes in biological engineering by designing, developing, and licensing custom microbes and organisms. The company focuses on discovering and producing a variety of molecules for applications in flavors, sweeteners, cosmetic ingredients, crop treatments, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, Ginkgo Bioworks offers probiotic bacteria aimed at protecting against harmful infections and creates libraries of molecules for various uses. Its market reach includes sectors such as cultured ingredients, carbon mitigation, probiotics, and natural product discovery.
SomaLogic operates as a protein biomarker discovery and clinical diagnostics company. It offers SOMAmers (Slow-Offrate Modified Aptamers), which are modified nucleic acid-based protein-binding reagents that are specific for their cognate protein; and SOMAscan that provides protein detection and equipment. The company’s SOMAmer/SOMAscan technology enables to discover protein biomarker signatures; drug discovery and development; and clinical diagnostics. Its products have applications in the diagnostics of various diseases in oncology, neurology, cardiovascular and metabolic disease, and other diseases and conditions.
SomaLogic was founded in 1999 and is headquartered in Boulder, Colorado.
Laronde is focused on developing innovative therapeutics using its proprietary Endless RNA™ (eRNA) platform, which allows for the modulation of human biology through uniquely engineered RNA. This technology enables the expression of diverse proteins within the body while being persistent, non-immunogenic, and suitable for repeat dosing. Additionally, it provides flexibility in formulation and delivery, making it a promising foundation for new medicines. Founded in 2017 by Flagship Labs, Laronde is rapidly scaling its operations to support the simultaneous development of various programs targeting multiple disease areas, aiming to create more predictable and impactful treatments in the healthcare sector.
Element Biosciences, Inc. develops genetic analysis tools for the research and diagnostic markets. The company provides a disruptive DNA sequencing technology and a sequencing platform, such as surface chemistry, sequencing chemistry, detection, and data analysis. The company was incorporated in 2017 and is based in San Diego, California.
Clear Labs, Inc. is a food analytics company based in Menlo Park, California, founded in 2013. The company offers a comprehensive food analytics platform that utilizes next-generation sequencing to analyze the molecular contents of foods and ingredients. This platform provides food manufacturers, suppliers, and retailers with crucial transparency across supply chains, testing products for authenticity, contaminants, allergens, and various other factors such as GMOs, heavy metals, and nutrition. Clear Labs also focuses on simplifying complex diagnostics for clinical and applied markets, combining DNA sequencing, robotics, and cloud-based analytics to improve accuracy and accelerate outcomes. By delivering insights into food safety and quality, Clear Labs aims to enhance understanding and management of potential health risks associated with food products and emerging pathogens.
Private Equity Round in 2021
Caris Life Sciences is a biotechnology company based in Irving, Texas, specializing in precision medicine and cancer treatment. Founded in 1996, the company develops and commercializes advanced diagnostic technologies, including anatomic pathology and molecular profiling, to enhance the understanding of cancer biology. Its services encompass comprehensive molecular analyses of patient samples, integrating genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic profiling through the Caris Molecular Intelligence platform. This platform aids physicians and cancer patients in making informed and personalized treatment decisions by revealing the molecular blueprint of complex diseases. Caris Life Sciences serves a global customer base through distributors in regions including the United States, Europe, and Australia, and maintains a strategic collaboration with Debiopharm International SA. The company is committed to improving patient outcomes through innovative scientific advancements and a focus on quality care.
LUMICKS B.V. is a company that specializes in developing advanced equipment for dynamic single-molecule and cell avidity analysis, facilitating research in biology and cancer at the molecular and cellular levels. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Amsterdam, with an additional office in Cambridge, Massachusetts, LUMICKS offers innovative technologies such as correlative optical tweezers-fluorescence microscopy systems and the C-Trap, which integrates optical tweezers with advanced imaging techniques. The company’s Acoustic Force Spectroscopy (AFS) enables the study of mechanical properties in biological systems, while its u-Flux microfluidics system allows for single-molecule experiments in controlled laminar flow environments. By enabling live measurements and imaging of molecular interactions, LUMICKS provides valuable insights into the fundamental causes of diseases, including cancer, and supports drug optimization efforts.
Scribe Therapeutics Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative therapeutics using CRISPR technology to address genetic disorders. Founded in 2017 and based in Berkeley, California, Scribe specializes in engineering CRISPR enzymes known as X-Editing (XE) molecules, which enhance the efficacy, specificity, and deliverability of genome editing compared to existing methods. The company's proprietary platform enables the creation of custom-engineered enzymes and delivery systems, facilitating precision targeting within the genome. Scribe Therapeutics aims to establish CRISPR-based therapies as a standard in clinical care, expanding access to transformative treatments for a wide range of conditions, including immuno-oncology and degenerative disorders. Through its commitment to overcoming the limitations of current genome editing technologies, Scribe Therapeutics is poised to make substantial contributions to human therapeutics.
Vividion Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in San Diego, California, focused on developing therapeutics to address significant unmet medical needs. The company utilizes a novel platform for proteome-wide small molecule drug discovery, which combines proteomic techniques and synthetic chemistry to enhance drug selectivity and broaden the range of druggable proteins. Originating from research at The Scripps Research Institute, Vividion's technology enables the creation of detailed drug interaction maps, facilitating simultaneous target engagement and comprehensive selectivity profiling. By advancing its innovative synthetic and proteomic chemistry approaches, Vividion aims to deliver transformative treatments for patients with serious illnesses.
Day One Biopharmaceuticals is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing targeted therapies for genetically defined cancers in patients of all ages, with an initial emphasis on pediatric patients. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in South San Francisco, California, the company aims to address the critical needs of children and adults diagnosed with cancer by creating innovative treatments derived from the biology of childhood cancer. Day One Biopharmaceuticals prioritizes programs that can be swiftly brought to market, thereby providing timely options for families facing cancer diagnoses. Its lead product candidate, DAY101, is an oral, brain-penetrant pan-RAF kinase inhibitor designed to target specific cancer types. The company seeks to license and acquire promising therapeutic products from research institutions and other biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, striving to enhance the treatment landscape for underserved populations.
SomaLogic operates as a protein biomarker discovery and clinical diagnostics company. It offers SOMAmers (Slow-Offrate Modified Aptamers), which are modified nucleic acid-based protein-binding reagents that are specific for their cognate protein; and SOMAscan that provides protein detection and equipment. The company’s SOMAmer/SOMAscan technology enables to discover protein biomarker signatures; drug discovery and development; and clinical diagnostics. Its products have applications in the diagnostics of various diseases in oncology, neurology, cardiovascular and metabolic disease, and other diseases and conditions.
SomaLogic was founded in 1999 and is headquartered in Boulder, Colorado.
Imago BioSciences is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in San Carlos, California, focused on developing innovative therapies for hematologic diseases, including leukemia and myelodysplastic syndromes. Established in 2012, the company specializes in small molecule product candidates that target lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1), an enzyme crucial for blood cell production in the bone marrow. Its lead candidate, Bomedemstat, is an orally available inhibitor of LSD1, being evaluated for its potential to modify the disease course in patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms, a group of chronic bone marrow cancers. Imago aims to translate advanced scientific insights into effective treatments that can significantly improve the quality and duration of life for patients facing these challenging conditions.
LianBio is a biopharmaceutical company based in Shanghai, China, with an additional office in Princeton, New Jersey. Founded in 2019, the company focuses on the discovery and development of therapeutic drugs aimed at treating oncology and cardiorenal diseases, as well as other medical conditions. LianBio's mission is to enhance access to innovative medicines by partnering with leading organizations in the field to leverage advanced scientific discoveries. The company is dedicated to addressing unmet medical needs in Greater China and other Asian markets by in-licensing assets and building a diverse pipeline of clinically validated product candidates. Its portfolio aims to establish new standards of care across various therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular, oncology, ophthalmology, inflammatory diseases, and respiratory conditions.
Private Equity Round in 2020
Caris Life Sciences is a biotechnology company based in Irving, Texas, specializing in precision medicine and cancer treatment. Founded in 1996, the company develops and commercializes advanced diagnostic technologies, including anatomic pathology and molecular profiling, to enhance the understanding of cancer biology. Its services encompass comprehensive molecular analyses of patient samples, integrating genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic profiling through the Caris Molecular Intelligence platform. This platform aids physicians and cancer patients in making informed and personalized treatment decisions by revealing the molecular blueprint of complex diseases. Caris Life Sciences serves a global customer base through distributors in regions including the United States, Europe, and Australia, and maintains a strategic collaboration with Debiopharm International SA. The company is committed to improving patient outcomes through innovative scientific advancements and a focus on quality care.
Flame Biosciences, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in New York that specializes in the research, development, and commercialization of innovative therapies targeting cancer and inflammatory diseases. Established in 2017, the company is advancing its FL-101 therapy, designed to treat lung cancers associated with inflammation, and FL-201, aimed at alleviating chronic inflammation in patients. By leveraging the emerging field of inflammasome science, Flame Biosciences seeks to provide effective treatments that enhance the quality of life for individuals affected by serious health conditions.
Private Equity Round in 2020
Kronos Bio, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to discovering and developing innovative cancer therapeutics. Founded in 2017 and based in San Mateo, California, the company concentrates on targeting dysregulated transcription factors and the associated transcriptional regulatory networks that contribute to cancer progression. Its lead candidate, entospletinib, is a selective inhibitor aimed at spleen tyrosine kinase for treating acute myeloid leukemia. Additionally, Kronos Bio is advancing KB-0742, an orally bioavailable inhibitor of cyclin dependent kinase 9, intended for the treatment of MYC-amplified solid tumors. The company employs advanced techniques, including high-throughput small-molecule microarrays and targeted protein degradation, to discover potent compounds that can effectively modulate challenging cancer targets.
Thrive Earlier Detection Corp. is a healthcare company dedicated to improving cancer detection through innovative technology. It focuses on the development of CancerSEEK, a liquid biopsy test that analyzes genomic mutations in tumor DNA and protein markers in plasma to identify multiple types of cancer at their earliest stages, often before symptoms become apparent. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with an additional office in Baltimore, Maryland, Thrive aims to integrate early cancer detection into routine medical care. The company was previously known as Thrive Sciences Inc. and has been a subsidiary of Exact Sciences Corporation since early 2021. Thrive was launched with support from various investors, including Third Rock Ventures and Section 32, reflecting a strong commitment to advancing cancer diagnostics.
Seer, Inc. is a life sciences company that specializes in developing nanoparticle technology solutions aimed at advancing proteomics research. The company's flagship product, Proteograph, is an integrated system that includes consumables, automation instrumentation, and proprietary software designed for proteomics analysis. Seer targets academic institutions, life sciences research laboratories, and biopharmaceutical companies, offering its products for research purposes, specifically for non-diagnostic and non-clinical applications. Additionally, Seer has created a health data platform that enhances the early detection of chronic, life-threatening diseases by capturing and translating molecular insights from the proteome. This innovation aims to improve accuracy and speed in identifying conditions such as cancer and neurological diseases, ultimately facilitating earlier treatment and better patient outcomes. Headquartered in Redwood City, California, Seer was incorporated in 2017 and was previously known as Seer Biosciences, Inc. before its name change in July 2018.
VelosBio, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Diego, California, focused on developing innovative antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) to treat hematological cancers and solid tumors. The company specializes in therapies targeting receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1), a cell-surface protein commonly found in various tumors but absent in normal tissues, making it a promising target for cancer treatment. Its lead product, VLS-101, is designed as a ROR1-directed ADC aimed at patients with both hematologic and solid tumor malignancies. Founded in 2017, VelosBio has demonstrated positive preclinical results for its ROR1-directed therapeutics, paving the way for potential use in monotherapy or in combination with other treatments across a wide range of cancers. As of late 2020, VelosBio operates as a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc.
Seer, Inc. is a life sciences company that specializes in developing nanoparticle technology solutions aimed at advancing proteomics research. The company's flagship product, Proteograph, is an integrated system that includes consumables, automation instrumentation, and proprietary software designed for proteomics analysis. Seer targets academic institutions, life sciences research laboratories, and biopharmaceutical companies, offering its products for research purposes, specifically for non-diagnostic and non-clinical applications. Additionally, Seer has created a health data platform that enhances the early detection of chronic, life-threatening diseases by capturing and translating molecular insights from the proteome. This innovation aims to improve accuracy and speed in identifying conditions such as cancer and neurological diseases, ultimately facilitating earlier treatment and better patient outcomes. Headquartered in Redwood City, California, Seer was incorporated in 2017 and was previously known as Seer Biosciences, Inc. before its name change in July 2018.
Ginkgo Bioworks, founded in 2008 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, specializes in biological engineering by designing, developing, and licensing custom microbes and organisms. The company focuses on discovering and producing a variety of molecules for applications in flavors, sweeteners, cosmetic ingredients, crop treatments, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, Ginkgo Bioworks offers probiotic bacteria aimed at protecting against harmful infections and creates libraries of molecules for various uses. Its market reach includes sectors such as cultured ingredients, carbon mitigation, probiotics, and natural product discovery.
Ginkgo Bioworks, founded in 2008 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, specializes in biological engineering by designing, developing, and licensing custom microbes and organisms. The company focuses on discovering and producing a variety of molecules for applications in flavors, sweeteners, cosmetic ingredients, crop treatments, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, Ginkgo Bioworks offers probiotic bacteria aimed at protecting against harmful infections and creates libraries of molecules for various uses. Its market reach includes sectors such as cultured ingredients, carbon mitigation, probiotics, and natural product discovery.
Dr. Lal PathLabs, founded in 1949 by Dr. S.K. Lal, a pioneer in pathology, has established itself as a leading clinical pathology laboratory in India. Originally the first of its kind in Delhi and Northern India, the organization has expanded its services to include comprehensive diagnostic offerings in pathology and radiology. Dr. Lal PathLabs operates multiple laboratories that conduct a wide range of tests across various disciplines such as biochemistry, hematology, histopathology, microbiology, immunology, and virology. These diagnostic services play a crucial role in disease prevention, monitoring, and treatment, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes. While the company primarily generates its revenue in India, it also operates in several other countries, reflecting its growing international presence in the healthcare sector.
aTyr Pharma is a biotherapeutics company that discovers and develops protein biologics for human therapeutics. The company has established a dominant intellectual property estate surrounding Physiocrine-based compositions and potential therapeutic applications. aTyr’s key programs are focused on immunomodulation disorders in the areas of inflammation and immunity and are in preclinical development.
The company's primary focus is ATYR1923, a clinical-stage product candidate which binds to the neuropilin-2 receptor and is designed to down-regulate immune engagement in interstitial lung diseases.
The privately held biotech was founded by The Scripps Research Institute Professor Paul Schimmel, a leading aminoacyl tRNA synthetase scientist, and is backed by top life sciences investors Alta Partners, Cardinal Partners, Domain Associates and Polaris Ventures.
Spark Therapeutics, Inc. is dedicated to developing gene therapy products aimed at treating debilitating genetic diseases. The company is known for LUXTURNA, a treatment for patients with biallelic RPE65 mutation-associated retinal dystrophy, and has an extensive pipeline that includes candidates like SPK-8011 and SPK-8016 for hemophilia, SPK-7001 for choroideremia, and SPK-9001 for hemophilia B. Additionally, Spark is exploring liver-directed gene therapies such as SPK-3006 for Pompe disease and has programs targeting neurodegenerative diseases, including Huntington's disease and a form of Batten disease. Spark Therapeutics also engages in collaborations, notably with Pfizer for the SPK-FIX program for hemophilia B, and has a licensing agreement with Novartis for the commercialization of LUXTURNA outside the United States. Established in 2013 and based in Philadelphia, Spark Therapeutics operates as a subsidiary of Roche Holding AG and leverages a proprietary manufacturing platform to support its clinical studies across various therapeutic areas.
Private Equity Round in 2011
Puma Biotechnology is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the development and commercialization of innovative products aimed at improving cancer care. The company focuses on acquiring and advancing drug candidates that have completed initial clinical testing. Its primary product, NERLYNX, is an oral formulation of neratinib, which is used for treating HER2-positive breast cancer. In addition to neratinib, Puma is developing PB357, an irreversible tyrosine kinase inhibitor that targets epidermal growth factor receptors HER1, HER2, and HER4. The company has established a licensing agreement with Pfizer for the development and commercialization of these drug candidates. Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Los Angeles, California, Puma Biotechnology is committed to enhancing treatment outcomes for patients with various forms of cancer.
Pacific Biosciences designs, develops, and manufactures advanced sequencing systems that address complex genetic challenges. Utilizing single molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing technology, it enables the real-time detection of biological processes at the single-molecule level. The company offers products such as the PacBio RS II and Sequel Systems, which are capable of conducting, monitoring, and analyzing biochemical reactions in real time. In addition to sequencing systems, Pacific Biosciences provides consumables like SMRT cells and various reagent kits essential for template preparation, binding, and sequencing. Its diverse customer base includes research institutions, commercial laboratories, genome centers, and various sectors such as pharmaceuticals and agriculture. The company markets its products through a direct sales force in North America and Europe, along with distribution partners in Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. Founded in 2000, Pacific Biosciences is headquartered in Menlo Park, California.
Pacific Biosciences designs, develops, and manufactures advanced sequencing systems that address complex genetic challenges. Utilizing single molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing technology, it enables the real-time detection of biological processes at the single-molecule level. The company offers products such as the PacBio RS II and Sequel Systems, which are capable of conducting, monitoring, and analyzing biochemical reactions in real time. In addition to sequencing systems, Pacific Biosciences provides consumables like SMRT cells and various reagent kits essential for template preparation, binding, and sequencing. Its diverse customer base includes research institutions, commercial laboratories, genome centers, and various sectors such as pharmaceuticals and agriculture. The company markets its products through a direct sales force in North America and Europe, along with distribution partners in Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. Founded in 2000, Pacific Biosciences is headquartered in Menlo Park, California.
DoubleTwist
Series D in 2000
In December 1999, Pangea Systems became DoubleTwist, Inc. - a new application service provider (ASP)/ Internet company devoted to empowering life scientists. The change reflects a new focus on this Internet portal. DoubleTwist.com integrates powerful tools and data behind automated research agents that retrieve and interpret data based on the user's scientific questions. The company's traditional data warehousing and mining software power the site, enabling life science research through an easy-to-use interface on the Web. DoubleTwist has established a talented and experienced development team of scientific and technical personnel dedicated to building software solutions that address the biological data management needs of life scientists. DoubleTwist's scientific team is comprised of leading experts in their respective fields of biochemistry, molecular biology, protein chemistry, bioinformatics, computer science and computational biology. They come to DoubleTwist from world-renowned institutions, including Stanford University, UCLA, UC Berkeley, UCSF, University of Pennsylvania, Sandoz Pharmaceutical, Onyx Pharmaceutical, Incyte, Molecular Simulations, Molecular Dynamics, Roche and Glaxo Wellcome. The company's software engineers have extensive experience in commercial-grade software systems, with particular expertise in relational database and object-oriented development. They come to DoubleTwist from some of the industry's most successful companies, including Apple, Oracle and IBM.