Novartis is a global healthcare company headquartered in Switzerland, dedicated to addressing evolving patient needs worldwide. It operates through several divisions: Novartis Pharmaceuticals for innovative medicines, Sandoz for generics and biosimilars, and Alcon for eye care devices. The company focuses on key therapeutic areas such as oncology, rare diseases, neuroscience, immunology, respiratory, and cardio-metabolic diseases. Novartis also invests in early-stage life sciences and biotechnology companies through its venture capital arm, Novartis Venture Fund, seeking innovative therapeutics, medical devices, diagnostics, and drug delivery systems. Additionally, Novartis Animal Health develops products for pets, farm animals, and farmed fish, contributing to animal health and welfare. The company's research and development efforts are supported by the Genomics Institute of the Novartis Research Foundation, which bridges basic science and preclinical drug discovery.
Director of Strategic Planning and Business Operations, Office of Chief Technology Transformation Officer
Michelle Ma Ph.D
Analyst
Nadene McIntyre
Associate Director Access and Reimbursement
Campbell Murray
Managing Director
Marion Mutter
Senior Clinical Research Associate
Aaron Nelson
Managing Director
Pascal Qian
Executive Director ( Head of Solid Tumor)
Michal Silverberg
Managing Director
Lauren Silverman
Managing Director
Beat Steffen
Managing Director
Marianne Uteng Ph.D
Managing Director
Alberto Villena
Director, M&A, Finance
Maurizio Voi
Vice President, Global Program Head, Tislelizumab, Immuno Oncology
Steve Weinstein
Managing Director
Past deals in Healthcare
Anthos Therapeutics
Acquisition in 2025
Anthos Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on developing innovative therapies for cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Founded in 2018, the company specializes in treatments targeting Factor XI and XIa, essential components of the intrinsic coagulation pathway. Its lead product, MAA868, is an antibody designed to provide an anti-thrombotic effect, allowing healthcare professionals to prevent various thrombotic diseases while minimizing the risk of bleeding. By advancing long-acting treatment options, Anthos Therapeutics aims to improve care for patients suffering from cardiovascular conditions, representing a significant advancement over conventional therapies.
Citryll
Series B in 2024
Citryll is a private pharmaceutical company based in Oss, The Netherlands, founded in 2015. The company focuses on developing drugs aimed at treating autoimmune diseases and other human health conditions. Citryll's innovative approach involves the manipulation of the formation, function, and clearance of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) that are influenced by the protein citrullination pathway, specifically through the action of Peptidylarginine Deiminase (PAD) enzymes. This research supports medical professionals in addressing various serious conditions, including lupus, vasculitis, pulmonary fibrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and organ damage resulting from sepsis.
Kate Therapeutics
Acquisition in 2024
Kate Therapeutics is a biotechnology company dedicated to developing adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based gene therapies for genetically defined muscle and heart diseases. The company employs advanced technology platforms to enhance tissue-specific delivery and gene regulation, overcoming significant challenges associated with current gene therapies. By utilizing innovative capsids, Kate Therapeutics achieves superior muscle transduction and effectively de-targets the liver, allowing for more efficient tissue transduction at lower viral doses. This approach addresses key limitations in muscle gene delivery, aiming to improve treatment outcomes for patients with muscle and heart conditions.
LOQUS23 THERAPEUTICS
Series A in 2024
LoQus23 is a DDF-formed company focussing on targeting DNA damage repair pathways to treat Huntington’s disease and other triplet repeat diseases.
Epsilogen
Series B in 2024
Epsilogen Ltd is an immuno-oncology company based in London, United Kingdom, founded in 2016. The company specializes in developing immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies aimed at treating cancer. Epsilogen offers a portfolio of IgE candidates that specifically target cancer antigens such as HER2, EGFR, and PD-L1. Its innovative IgE platform supports the development and validation of novel antibodies, allowing for enhanced potency, improved tumor access, and a prolonged presence in tissue. This focus on IgE-based therapies positions Epsilogen to provide effective treatment options for patients with solid tumors.
Borealis Biosciences
Series A in 2024
Borealis Biosciences is a discovery-stage biotechnology company focused on developing next-generation RNA-based medicines specifically for kidney diseases. The company utilizes its expertise in molecular and cellular biology, chemistry, and analytical capabilities to identify target opportunities within different patient subsets affected by kidney conditions. By refining methods for delivering RNA medicines to specific cell types, Borealis Biosciences aims to tackle significant unmet medical needs in the treatment of kidney diseases.
Dren Bio
Corporate Round in 2024
Dren Bio is a biotechnology company that specializes in protein engineering technologies designed to target and deplete pathogenic cells, protein aggregates, and other disease-causing agents. With a focus on hematologic neoplasms, solid cancers, autoimmune disorders, and diseases related to protein aggregation, the company aims to provide innovative solutions for healthcare professionals in their efforts to combat various serious diseases. Operating under a holding company model, Dren Bio develops multiple projects as standalone assets, seeking to create value through its diverse portfolio of biotechnology initiatives.
Catalym
Series D in 2024
CatalYm GmbH, founded in 2016 and based in Munich, Germany, is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative immunotherapies for cancer patients. The company has identified GDF-15 as a key regulator of the immune system within the tumor microenvironment. By neutralizing GDF-15, CatalYm aims to enhance the immune response against solid tumors, potentially leading to meaningful clinical outcomes. Its CTL-002 program is designed to demonstrate clinical proof-of-concept across multiple solid tumor indications, offering the prospect of expanding treatment options for cancer patients. Through its approach, CatalYm seeks to transform the tumor microenvironment, making tumors more accessible to the immune system and improving both survival rates and quality of life for patients.
Capstan Therapeutics
Series B in 2024
Capstan Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on enhancing the therapeutic potential of in vivo RNA-based therapies. It develops proprietary targeted delivery systems, including targeted lipid nanoparticles, to improve the efficacy and control of dosage in engineered cell therapies. This innovative platform aims to address a variety of diseases, particularly in the fields of oncology, fibrosis, and inflammation, where there are significant unmet clinical needs. By advancing precision in vivo cell engineering, Capstan Therapeutics seeks to create transformative therapeutics that can offer new solutions for patients facing these challenging conditions.
Enterprise Therapeutics
Series B in 2024
Enterprise Therapeutics, established in 2014 and headquartered in Brighton, UK, is a drug discovery company focused on developing therapies for respiratory diseases. Its primary focus is on chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, cystic fibrosis, and asthma. The company aims to create novel treatments that target the underlying mechanisms of mucus congestion, reducing lung infections and enhancing patients' quality of life.
Aravax
Series B in 2024
Aravax is an early-stage biotechnology company based in Melbourne, Australia, dedicated to developing a safe and effective treatment for peanut allergies. Founded in May 2015 through the acquisition of intellectual property from Alfred Health and Monash University, Aravax employs proprietary technology aimed at resetting the immune system to tolerate peanuts without triggering allergic reactions. The company's innovative approach seeks to eliminate the risk of life-threatening responses to peanuts, allowing patients to undergo treatment and potentially overcome mild symptoms such as itchiness, rash, and gastrointestinal upset.
SanReno Therapeutics
Acquisition in 2024
SanReno Therapeutics specializes in the development, manufacturing, and commercialization of therapies for kidney diseases in several regions including the People's Republic of China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and Singapore. Established through a joint venture involving Chinook Therapeutics, Frazier Healthcare Partners, and Pivotal bioVenture Partners China, the company is dedicated to researching and producing innovative biotech solutions aimed at improving the quality of life for patients suffering from kidney-related conditions.
AstronauTx
Series A in 2023
AstronauTx is a biotechnology company focused on developing treatments for Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative conditions. The company aims to restore the normal functioning of astrocytes, which are crucial cells in the brain that support neuronal activity, metabolism, and the integrity of the blood-brain barrier. In conditions such as dementia, astrocytes can become dysfunctional, leading to neurotoxicity and exacerbating disease progression. By targeting astrocyte homeostasis, AstronauTx seeks to enable healthcare professionals to effectively address the underlying mechanisms of neurotoxicity associated with these diseases, ultimately improving treatment options for patients suffering from dementia and related disorders.
Hyku
Seed Round in 2023
Hyku is a biotechnology company focused on developing small molecule therapeutics that target disease-causing proteins through precise covalent binding. Utilizing its innovative platform, Hyku identifies molecules that covalently bind to non-cysteine amino acids, facilitating the creation of novel therapies. These therapies aim to address significant challenges in drug development, including issues related to selectivity, druggability, and resistance. By pushing the boundaries of covalent medicine, Hyku seeks to create effective treatments that can improve patient outcomes and advance the field of therapeutic development.
Octave
Series B in 2023
Octave is a clinical platform developer focused on transforming the care landscape for multiple sclerosis and other neurodegenerative diseases. The company's platform generates, analyzes, and integrates data to provide a comprehensive approach aimed at reducing the overall cost of care. By optimizing healthcare medications and utilization, Octave enables pharmaceutical companies to enhance the entire lifecycle of drug discovery, clinical trials, and post-marketing processes through the use of real-world evidence. This innovative approach seeks to improve patient outcomes while streamlining healthcare practices.
DTx Pharma
Acquisition in 2023
DTx Pharma, LLC is a biotechnology company focused on developing and commercializing fatty acid-conjugated peptide therapeutics for patients with rare and chronic diseases. The company specializes in RNA-based therapeutics, utilizing a delivery technology platform that enhances the distribution of nucleic acid drugs to various tissues and organ systems beyond the liver. This innovative approach addresses limitations associated with previous-generation RNA delivery methods, such as poor pharmacokinetics and inadequate cellular uptake. DTx Pharma's products target conditions including retinitis pigmentosa, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and central nervous system disorders. Founded in 2017 and based in San Diego, California, DTx Pharma aims to provide personalized treatment options across multiple therapeutic areas.
Tagworks Pharmaceuticals
Series A in 2023
Tagworks Pharmaceuticals is a privately held biotech company based in the Netherlands, established in 2011 as a spin-out from Philips Healthcare. The company focuses on developing innovative in vivo chemistry to enhance the effectiveness of cancer therapies and to facilitate novel companion diagnostics. Operating from the Radboud University Medical Center in Nijmegen, Tagworks specializes in antibody-based imaging and therapy technologies. Its proprietary approach allows for the selective chemical manipulation of tagged antibodies in vivo, which improves the efficacy of established methods like radioimmuno-imaging and antibody-drug conjugates. This technology enables medical professionals to conduct imaging with significantly reduced radiation exposure for patients.
Medtech Africa
Grant in 2023
Medtech Africa provides a medical platform (Forcardio) that enables caregivers to use health monitoring to manage and improve the care of their patients. We provide easy access to continuous medical care for cardiovascular disease management and care in emerging markets. We provide cost-effective and simplified tools that provide proactive, personalized, and timely information about people living with chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart failure.
Chinook Therapeutics
Acquisition in 2023
Chinook Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Seattle, Washington, that specializes in the discovery, development, and commercialization of precision medicines for kidney diseases. The company's lead program is atrasentan, an investigational endothelin receptor antagonist currently prepared for Phase III trials targeting IgA nephropathy and other primary glomerular diseases. In addition to atrasentan, Chinook is developing BION-1301, an investigational anti-APRIL monoclonal antibody evaluated in a Phase Ib trial for IgA nephropathy, and CHK-336, a preclinical candidate aimed at treating an undisclosed ultra-orphan kidney disease. Chinook Therapeutics is also engaged in research programs addressing other rare and severe chronic kidney conditions, including polycystic kidney disease.
RxLightning
Series A in 2023
RxLightning is a digital platform focused on improving access to specialty medications by automating and streamlining the enrollment process. The company addresses the complexities associated with starting patients on specialty therapies across various fields, including addiction medicine, cardiology, endocrinology, and dermatology. By digitizing manual procedures, RxLightning reduces the burden of paperwork and enhances communication among healthcare providers, ultimately accelerating patients' speed to therapy. This innovative approach allows for a more efficient and effective management of specialty prescriptions, benefiting both healthcare professionals and patients alike.
Patientory
Venture Round in 2023
Patientory, Inc. is a healthcare technology company based in Atlanta, Georgia, established in 2015. It offers a health data management platform that enables individuals to securely store, manage, and share their health information. The platform empowers patients to take control of their medical records and chronic illness management while facilitating better communication and support between healthcare providers and patients. By integrating a blockchain-enabled network, Patientory streamlines access to health data, enhances care coordination, and provides insights into health outcomes. This approach aims to democratize health data ownership, reduce healthcare costs, and improve overall patient engagement and health management.
Mediar Therapeutics
Series A in 2023
Mediar Therapeutics is a pre-clinical stage biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on developing antibody-based therapeutics for the treatment of fibrosis. Founded in 2019, the company aims to provide innovative solutions by targeting key fibrotic mediator proteins that contribute to the development of fibrosis in chronically damaged organs. Through its research and development efforts, Mediar seeks to enable medical practitioners to halt and potentially reverse critical fibrosis and related conditions, addressing a significant unmet need in the field of fibrotic diseases.
Holmusk
Series B in 2023
Holmusk is a health data analytics company focused on enhancing treatment for mental health and chronic diseases. It develops a real-world evidence platform that integrates specialty behavioral health data with advanced analytics to provide evidence-based insights for treatment decisions. By leveraging artificial intelligence and data science, Holmusk accelerates research and improves patient outcomes through predictive algorithms. Its proprietary modeling platform enables clients to analyze real-world data, facilitating personalized medicine and driving data-driven approaches in healthcare. The company's mission is to expand evidence-based care for individuals managing behavioral health conditions, ultimately supporting the commercialization of new treatments.
Docthus Healthtech
Grant in 2022
At Docthus, we are dedicated to addressing the critical challenge of reducing variations in care and ensuring that every patient receives the best care each time. With our innovative platform, doctors can stay at the forefront of medical advancements, access live surgeries, participate in interactive webinars, and collaborate with a network of experts. By empowering doctors with up-to-date knowledge and fostering collaboration, we enable them to deliver the highest standard of care, ultimately improving patient outcomes and eliminating disparities in healthcare.
Catalym
Series C in 2022
CatalYm GmbH, founded in 2016 and based in Munich, Germany, is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative immunotherapies for cancer patients. The company has identified GDF-15 as a key regulator of the immune system within the tumor microenvironment. By neutralizing GDF-15, CatalYm aims to enhance the immune response against solid tumors, potentially leading to meaningful clinical outcomes. Its CTL-002 program is designed to demonstrate clinical proof-of-concept across multiple solid tumor indications, offering the prospect of expanding treatment options for cancer patients. Through its approach, CatalYm seeks to transform the tumor microenvironment, making tumors more accessible to the immune system and improving both survival rates and quality of life for patients.
Orionis Biosciences
Series C in 2022
Orionis Biosciences is a biotechnology company focused on early-stage drug discovery and development, particularly targeting oncology and immunotherapies. Headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, with additional research facilities in Ghent, Belgium, the company utilizes a range of innovative technologies to create conditionally active drug modalities aimed at treating diseases with significant unmet medical needs. By inducing molecular proximity and cooperativity, Orionis enhances drug potency and precision, allowing for novel target access. Their approach facilitates the development of a diverse pipeline of drug candidates, including therapies that engage both adaptive and innate immune systems. The company collaborates with strategic partners, including VIB in Belgium, and is supported by a team of seasoned entrepreneurs and scientists, as well as a transatlantic network of investors.
Capstan Therapeutics
Series A in 2022
Capstan Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on enhancing the therapeutic potential of in vivo RNA-based therapies. It develops proprietary targeted delivery systems, including targeted lipid nanoparticles, to improve the efficacy and control of dosage in engineered cell therapies. This innovative platform aims to address a variety of diseases, particularly in the fields of oncology, fibrosis, and inflammation, where there are significant unmet clinical needs. By advancing precision in vivo cell engineering, Capstan Therapeutics seeks to create transformative therapeutics that can offer new solutions for patients facing these challenging conditions.
Kedalion Therapeutics
Acquisition in 2022
Kedalion Therapeutics Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Menlo Park, California, specializing in the development and commercialization of innovative topical ophthalmic therapies. Founded in 2015, the company utilizes its proprietary AcuStream platform technology to deliver topical drugs to the eye with high precision and accuracy. This novel, digitally connected, electromechanical delivery device significantly reduces the required dosage by up to 80% compared to traditional eye drops, while enhancing patient comfort and minimizing side effects. Kedalion's approach aims to meet the unmet needs of patients by providing a user-friendly device that improves the administration of ocular therapies, thereby benefiting both healthcare professionals and patients through increased efficiency and comfort.
Cleerly
Series C in 2022
Cleerly is a healthcare company focused on improving the prevention of heart attacks through innovative digital care pathways. It aims to establish a new standard for coronary artery disease by combining advanced clinical science with cutting-edge artificial intelligence. Cleerly's platform offers a non-invasive approach that quantifies and characterizes plaque buildup in coronary arteries, enhancing the understanding of cardiovascular health. By providing actionable clinical insights, the company enables healthcare providers to better identify at-risk patients and implement early treatment strategies. Ultimately, Cleerly's data-driven solutions aspire to deliver significant value to the healthcare system while improving heart health outcomes for individuals susceptible to heart attacks.
Alladapt Immunotherapeutics
Venture Round in 2022
Alladapt Immunotherapeutics, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing therapeutics for food allergies. Founded in 2018 and based in Menlo Park, California, the company is advancing its lead program, ADP101, which aims to provide a broad-spectrum oral immunotherapy treatment. This innovative drug targets the mitigation, treatment, and prevention of food allergies caused by single or multiple proteins from a wide range of common allergens. Through its research and development efforts, Alladapt Immunotherapeutics seeks to enable healthcare providers to effectively address the challenges faced by patients with various food allergies.
Deciphex
Series B in 2022
Deciphex Limited, founded in 2017 and based in Dublin, Ireland, specializes in developing digital pathology software applications aimed at enhancing diagnostic workflows through artificial intelligence. The company offers two primary platforms: Patholytix and Diagnexia. Patholytix is designed for preclinical and toxicologic pathology, aiding pharmaceutical and clinical research organizations in optimizing safety assessments and accelerating drug development. Diagnexia facilitates rapid diagnostics by connecting global subspecialty pathologists, thereby addressing backlog issues. Both platforms automate routine tasks, allowing pathologists to concentrate on more complex cases, which ultimately leads to faster and more reliable diagnoses. Through its innovative approach, Deciphex is committed to improving patient outcomes and advancing healthcare delivery.
Klarah
Grant in 2022
Klarah is a digital health company specializing in telehealth solutions. It offers a network of specialist doctors and nurses for remote consultations and patient support. The platform provides a dashboard for accessing medical history and real-time health updates. Services include wound care, wellness checks, post-hospital care, and diabetes management, primarily catering to individuals seeking healthcare for loved ones in Africa.
Epsilogen
Series B in 2022
Epsilogen Ltd is an immuno-oncology company based in London, United Kingdom, founded in 2016. The company specializes in developing immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies aimed at treating cancer. Epsilogen offers a portfolio of IgE candidates that specifically target cancer antigens such as HER2, EGFR, and PD-L1. Its innovative IgE platform supports the development and validation of novel antibodies, allowing for enhanced potency, improved tumor access, and a prolonged presence in tissue. This focus on IgE-based therapies positions Epsilogen to provide effective treatment options for patients with solid tumors.
Koneksa
Series C in 2022
Koneksa Health Inc. is a healthcare data analytics company focused on enhancing clinical studies and disease research through the use of remotely generated patient data. The company's software, Koneksa Compare, facilitates the collection, visualization, and analysis of patient-generated data, incorporating emerging technologies such as bio-sensors, activity trackers, and mobile-based questionnaires. This platform allows pharmaceutical and biotech companies, as well as academic researchers, to make informed decisions and regulatory claims based on objective data. Koneksa also provides biometric devices that generate electronic clinical outcome assessments and offers a dashboard for monitoring patient engagement, which includes reminders for study subjects. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in New York, Koneksa has an additional office in London, United Kingdom.
ImmPACT Bio
Series B in 2022
ImmPACT Bio USA Inc. is a cell therapy company focused on developing engineered T-cells specifically designed to target and treat solid tumors. By utilizing advanced technology, the company aims to create chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies that exhibit tumor specificity, allowing them to induce cytotoxicity only when interacting with tumor cells while sparing healthy tissues. This selective targeting mitigates the safety risks commonly associated with existing CAR-T therapies, providing a promising approach to cancer treatment that enhances efficacy and reduces potential harm to noncancerous cells.
Gyroscope
Acquisition in 2021
Gyroscope is a clinical-stage gene therapy company that specializes in developing treatments for retinal diseases, particularly focusing on Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), a major cause of blindness. The company leverages advancements in understanding the complement system's role in eye diseases and uses gene therapy as a therapeutic approach. Gyroscope's lead investigational therapy, GT005, is designed to be administered as a one-time treatment under the retina, aiming to restore balance to an overactive complement system by enhancing the production of the Complement Factor I protein. Currently, GT005 is undergoing evaluation in multiple clinical trials, including a Phase I/II trial named FOCUS and two Phase II trials called EXPLORE and HORIZON. Founded in 2016 in Stevenage, Herefordshire, by Andrew Lotery, David Kavanagh, and Peter Lachmann, Gyroscope seeks to provide innovative solutions for patients suffering from retinal diseases.
Holmusk
Venture Round in 2021
Holmusk is a health data analytics company focused on enhancing treatment for mental health and chronic diseases. It develops a real-world evidence platform that integrates specialty behavioral health data with advanced analytics to provide evidence-based insights for treatment decisions. By leveraging artificial intelligence and data science, Holmusk accelerates research and improves patient outcomes through predictive algorithms. Its proprietary modeling platform enables clients to analyze real-world data, facilitating personalized medicine and driving data-driven approaches in healthcare. The company's mission is to expand evidence-based care for individuals managing behavioral health conditions, ultimately supporting the commercialization of new treatments.
Medtech Africa
Grant in 2021
Medtech Africa provides a medical platform (Forcardio) that enables caregivers to use health monitoring to manage and improve the care of their patients. We provide easy access to continuous medical care for cardiovascular disease management and care in emerging markets. We provide cost-effective and simplified tools that provide proactive, personalized, and timely information about people living with chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart failure.
LOQUS23 THERAPEUTICS
Seed Round in 2021
LoQus23 is a DDF-formed company focussing on targeting DNA damage repair pathways to treat Huntington’s disease and other triplet repeat diseases.
Kedalion Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Kedalion Therapeutics Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Menlo Park, California, specializing in the development and commercialization of innovative topical ophthalmic therapies. Founded in 2015, the company utilizes its proprietary AcuStream platform technology to deliver topical drugs to the eye with high precision and accuracy. This novel, digitally connected, electromechanical delivery device significantly reduces the required dosage by up to 80% compared to traditional eye drops, while enhancing patient comfort and minimizing side effects. Kedalion's approach aims to meet the unmet needs of patients by providing a user-friendly device that improves the administration of ocular therapies, thereby benefiting both healthcare professionals and patients through increased efficiency and comfort.
Dunad Therapeutics
Series A in 2021
Dunad Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing innovative targeted protein degradation therapies. The company utilizes a small molecule platform that induces the selective degradation of disease-causing and often difficult-to-target proteins by directly modulating their stability and conformation. This approach offers a novel molecular strategy that is adaptable and operates through a mechanism of action that is not limited to specific target classes, distinguishing it from existing targeted protein degradation technologies. By focusing on oral therapies, Dunad Therapeutics aims to provide effective treatment options for challenging diseases.
Capstan Therapeutics
Seed Round in 2021
Capstan Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on enhancing the therapeutic potential of in vivo RNA-based therapies. It develops proprietary targeted delivery systems, including targeted lipid nanoparticles, to improve the efficacy and control of dosage in engineered cell therapies. This innovative platform aims to address a variety of diseases, particularly in the fields of oncology, fibrosis, and inflammation, where there are significant unmet clinical needs. By advancing precision in vivo cell engineering, Capstan Therapeutics seeks to create transformative therapeutics that can offer new solutions for patients facing these challenging conditions.
Lightship
Series C in 2021
Lightship is a company founded in 2018 that focuses on enhancing access, choice, and equity in clinical trials through decentralized and hybrid clinical services. By leveraging innovations in digital health and technology, Lightship aims to transform the clinical research landscape by improving patient experiences, retention, and trial diversity. The company moves beyond traditional research centers to make clinical studies more accessible, allowing medical research organizations to overcome the barriers and inefficiencies associated with conventional clinical trial models. Its mission centers on placing patients at the forefront, ensuring that clinical research is designed to meet the needs of diverse populations globally.
Exo Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Exo Therapeutics, Inc. is a drug discovery and development company focused on addressing intractable pharmaceutical targets. Founded in 2018 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company utilizes its proprietary ExoSight platform to develop a pipeline of drug candidates. These candidates are designed to bind to exosites and unique binding pockets, allowing for the reprogramming of enzyme activity to achieve targeted therapeutic effects. This innovative approach aims to provide robust treatments in areas such as oncology and inflammation, while also minimizing potential side effects for patients. By employing a precise and selective methodology, Exo Therapeutics is positioned to unlock new therapeutic possibilities for a variety of diseases.
Expansion Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Expansion Therapeutics is a drug discovery and development company focused on creating small molecule medicines for RNA-mediated diseases. The company specializes in developing novel RNA-targeted drug candidates that have the potential to treat a wide range of severe health conditions. By leveraging its innovative technology, Expansion Therapeutics aims to provide effective treatment options for patients suffering from these challenging diseases.
Immunitas Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Immunitas Therapeutics, Inc. is focused on developing targeted therapies for cancer patients through innovative single-cell analyses. Founded in 2019 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company utilizes a single-cell sequencing platform to explore the biology of immune cells within human tumors. This approach allows Immunitas to identify novel drug targets rooted in human biology and create key biomarkers that assist in selecting patients who may benefit from their therapies. By translating laboratory findings into clinical applications, Immunitas aims to address longstanding challenges in oncology and improve treatment options for complex cancers. The company is advancing multiple programs toward early human studies, leveraging expertise in antibody discovery and engineering to develop effective treatments.
Artios Pharma
Series C in 2021
Artios Pharma Limited is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, United Kingdom, that specializes in developing innovative cancer treatments targeting DNA damage response (DDR) pathways. Founded in 2015, the company is dedicated to creating first-in-class therapies aimed at selectively killing cancer cells. Artios's product pipeline features several promising programs, including a focus on DNA polymerase theta (Polθ), which plays a crucial role in DNA repair processes. Additionally, the company is advancing an in-licensed program that targets a newly identified protein linked to DDR and is developing a novel treatment aimed at DNA nucleases involved in these pathways. Artios collaborates with Cancer Research Technology and prominent DNA repair researchers globally to enhance its research and development efforts.
NuvoAir Medical
Series A in 2021
NuvoAir Medical, established in 2015 and headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, specializes in a value-based specialty care platform for managing chronic heart and lung conditions. The company's core offering is a proactive, continuous virtual care model that combines personalized care, advanced monitoring technology, and analytics, delivered by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals. NuvoAir collaborates with health plans and risk-bearing entities, employing flexible, value-based payment arrangements to reduce healthcare costs and improve patient outcomes.
Ribon Therapeutics
Series C in 2021
Ribon Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Lexington, Massachusetts, focused on developing novel cancer therapies that target monoPARP proteins, which are essential regulators of cancer survival mechanisms. Established in 2015, Ribon is leveraging insights from its scientific founders and an experienced management team to create a proprietary drug discovery platform aimed at understanding the molecular actions and biological functions of monoPARPs. This platform enables the development of small molecule inhibitors designed to disrupt cancer cells' abilities to withstand stress, potentially leading to innovative treatments for cancer and other diseases. The company is supported by notable life science investors, positioning it for growth in the biopharmaceutical sector.
Soteria Biotherapeutics
Series A in 2021
Soteria Biotherapeutics, Inc., founded in 2018 and based in San Francisco, California, focuses on developing innovative immunotherapies for cancer treatment. The company is creating a new generation of conditionally active bispecific T-cell engaging antibodies specifically aimed at treating solid tumors. Utilizing its advanced T-LITE™ platform, Soteria enables small molecule-dependent activation of these bispecific antibody therapies, which facilitates safer and more effective treatment options. This approach allows for pulsatile activity, resulting in reduced side effects and the potential for higher dosing, thereby improving the overall therapeutic experience for patients.
Amphista Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Amphista Therapeutics Limited is a biopharmaceutical company based in Motherwell, United Kingdom, established in 2017. The company specializes in targeted protein degradation technology to develop innovative cancer therapeutics. Amphista's approach focuses on harnessing the body's natural processes to selectively and efficiently degrade disease-causing proteins, aiming to create first-in-class treatments. By advancing novel methodologies in targeted protein degradation, Amphista seeks to improve therapeutic efficacy and modulate protein abundance linked to disease progression, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes in oncology.
Credence MedSystems
Corporate Round in 2021
Credence MedSystems, Inc. is a drug delivery and specialty pharmaceutical company based in Menlo Park, California, focused on enhancing the safety of injectable medications for patients and caregivers. The company develops innovative products, including the Companion Staked Needle Syringe, Companion Luer Syringe, and the Epiphany Safety Syringe system, which features a vacuum-triggered, auto-retractable mechanism for safer use. Credence MedSystems aims to simplify the commercialization process for pharmaceutical partners by integrating advanced safety features into existing drug delivery systems without necessitating significant changes to their manufacturing processes. This approach, termed "Innovation Without Change," allows for a more efficient path to market while ensuring that the delivery systems meet high standards of safety and efficacy. The company, formerly known as SafeShot Technologies, Inc., was established in 2011 and has formed a strategic collaboration with SCHOTT AG to further enhance its product offerings.
TScan Therapeutics
Series C in 2021
TScan Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to discovering and developing innovative T cell receptor (TCR) engineered therapies to combat various cancers. Based in Waltham, Massachusetts, the company focuses on TCR-T therapies for both liquid cancers and solid tumors. Its lead candidates, TSC-100 and TSC-101, are designed to address hematologic malignancies, specifically targeting residual leukemia and preventing relapse after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. In addition, TScan is advancing a multiplexed TCR-T therapy program aimed at treating a range of solid tumors. The company's proprietary platform identifies clinically relevant T cell antigens and minimizes off-target effects, enhancing the precision of its therapies. Founded in 2018, TScan Therapeutics is committed to improving outcomes for patients with serious diseases.
Aspen RxHealth
Series B in 2021
Aspen RxHealth is a Tampa, Florida-based company that provides an online platform designed to connect licensed pharmacists with patients requiring enhanced medication services. Through its app-based technology, Aspen RxHealth facilitates direct patient care by matching pharmacists to patients based on various social and clinical criteria, such as language and medication regimens. This platform enables health plans and providers to link their patients with a community of pharmacists who can deliver clinical services tailored to individual needs. The services offered include comprehensive medication reviews and targeted medication interventions, all aimed at optimizing communication and improving patient care.
SomaLogic
Series A in 2020
SomaLogic, Inc. is a commercial-stage company based in Boulder, Colorado, specializing in protein biomarker discovery and clinical diagnostics. Founded in 1999, the company has developed advanced technologies such as SOMAmers, slow off-rate modified aptamers that specifically bind to target proteins, and the SOMAscan platform, which facilitates comprehensive protein measurement. This innovative approach allows for the analysis of protein biomarker signatures, significantly enhancing the understanding of health and disease beyond traditional genomic methods. SomaLogic's products are utilized in a variety of applications, including diagnostics for conditions in oncology, neurology, and cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, as well as in drug discovery and development. The company also offers diagnostic tests and protein measurement solutions for life science and biopharma researchers, contributing to advancements in medical science.
Exo Therapeutics
Series A in 2020
Exo Therapeutics, Inc. is a drug discovery and development company focused on addressing intractable pharmaceutical targets. Founded in 2018 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company utilizes its proprietary ExoSight platform to develop a pipeline of drug candidates. These candidates are designed to bind to exosites and unique binding pockets, allowing for the reprogramming of enzyme activity to achieve targeted therapeutic effects. This innovative approach aims to provide robust treatments in areas such as oncology and inflammation, while also minimizing potential side effects for patients. By employing a precise and selective methodology, Exo Therapeutics is positioned to unlock new therapeutic possibilities for a variety of diseases.
Faze Medicines
Series A in 2020
Faze Medicines is a biotechnology company founded in 2020 and located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The company focuses on developing small molecule drugs that target the underlying mechanisms of disease pathology, with initial therapeutic efforts directed towards conditions such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1). Faze Medicines employs advanced screening and proteomics techniques to explore biomolecular condensate interaction networks, which aids in the identification and development of novel therapeutics. Through its innovative approach, Faze aims to provide effective treatments for patients suffering from these challenging diseases.
Pear Therapeutics
Series D in 2020
Pear Therapeutics, Inc. is a healthcare company specializing in the discovery, development, and delivery of software-based therapeutics aimed at treating behavioral health disorders, including addiction, schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, and chronic insomnia. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Boston, with an additional office in San Francisco, Pear Therapeutics offers a range of digital therapies designed to enhance treatment outcomes. Notable products include reSET, a tool for substance abuse treatment used alongside traditional therapy; reSET-O, which addresses opioid use disorder; and Somryst, aimed at chronic insomnia. The company also provides PearConnect, a patient services center that connects users with advocates, clinicians, and insurance providers to facilitate support and resource access throughout treatment. By integrating digital interventions with pharmaceuticals, Pear Therapeutics aims to improve patient engagement, clinical outcomes, and cost-effectiveness in healthcare.
Catalym
Series B in 2020
CatalYm GmbH, founded in 2016 and based in Munich, Germany, is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative immunotherapies for cancer patients. The company has identified GDF-15 as a key regulator of the immune system within the tumor microenvironment. By neutralizing GDF-15, CatalYm aims to enhance the immune response against solid tumors, potentially leading to meaningful clinical outcomes. Its CTL-002 program is designed to demonstrate clinical proof-of-concept across multiple solid tumor indications, offering the prospect of expanding treatment options for cancer patients. Through its approach, CatalYm seeks to transform the tumor microenvironment, making tumors more accessible to the immune system and improving both survival rates and quality of life for patients.
Vedere Bio ll
Acquisition in 2020
Vedere Bio, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, established in 2019. The company focuses on developing gene therapy products aimed at restoring functional vision for patients who have experienced vision loss due to Inherited Retinal Degenerations (IRDs) and other causes of vision impairment, both genetic and non-genetic. Unlike many ocular gene therapies that primarily slow the progression of vision loss, Vedere Bio seeks to restore lost vision, regardless of the patient's genetic background or stage of their condition. As of September 2020, Vedere Bio operates as a subsidiary of Novartis AG.
Novellus
Series C in 2020
Novellus is a biotechnology company working to develop engineered cellular medicines. The company uses its non-immunogenic mRNA molecules to reprogram and gene-edit cells safely, and with high efficiency. They engineer precision medicines for patient segments and select from its technology toolbox for in vivo, ex vivo, allogeneic and autologous delivery. Novellus platform enables the high-level expression of gene-editing and cell-reprogramming proteins for high-specificity gene repair and both autologous and allogeneic cell therapies. The company is advancing its lead program, a breakthrough therapy for a rare dermatologic disease, through pre-clinical studies. Novellus was founded in 2015 and is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States.
ESCAPE Bio
Venture Round in 2020
ESCAPE Bio is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing small molecule therapies for genetically defined subpopulations affected by neurodegenerative diseases. Founded in 2015 and based in South San Francisco, California, the company aims to improve the lives of patients suffering from conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and sphingolipid storage disorders. ESCAPE Bio's pipeline includes innovative candidates like ESB1609, a small molecule S1P5 receptor agonist targeting CNS lysosomal storage disorders, and ESB5070, a kinase inhibitor specifically designed for Parkinson's patients with the LRRK2 G2019S variant. Additionally, the company is developing a program aimed at addressing the needs of Alzheimer's patients who carry the ApoE4 risk allele. Through its precision-targeted approach, ESCAPE Bio seeks to provide effective treatment options for individuals with these complex genetic profiles.
Arkangel AI
Grant in 2020
Arkangel AI is a healthcare-focused technology company that provides a no-code artificial intelligence platform designed to help organizations develop, deploy, and manage machine learning algorithms at scale. Its platform enables the efficient detection of preventable diseases, producing results that are faster, scalable, accurate, and cost-effective. By facilitating the identification of health issues and their stages, Arkangel AI aims to promote equitable health conditions globally, empowering users to lead healthier lives free from preventable diseases.
Freenome
Series C in 2020
Freenome, Inc. is an artificial intelligence genomics biotech company based in South San Francisco, California, founded in 2014. The company focuses on developing accurate, accessible, and non-invasive blood tests for the early detection of cancer and treatment selection. Utilizing a proprietary multi-omics platform, Freenome employs advanced algorithms to analyze cell-free genomic data, which aids in identifying early-stage cancers and other diseases. This innovative approach aims to transform disease management by enabling timely interventions and proactive treatment strategies. In addition to its diagnostic solutions, Freenome also offers clinical research services to further advance cancer detection and management.
Science 37
Venture Round in 2020
Science 37, Inc. is a technology-enabled clinical trial company that specializes in developing patient-centric models for clinical research, aimed at accelerating biomedical discovery. The company utilizes its innovative platform, NORA (Network Oriented Research Assistant), a cloud-based mobile research tool that facilitates communication between researchers, patients, and mobile nurses through videos, surveys, and photographs. By providing decentralized clinical trial services, Science 37 enables access to diverse patient populations that traditional site-based research may overlook. The company has established itself as a leader in conducting virtual trials, leveraging an extensive network of telemedicine investigators and home-health nurses to enhance patient enrollment and retention. Serving a wide range of clients, including pharmaceutical sponsors, biotech firms, and academic institutions, Science 37 aims to transform clinical research through its comprehensive, fully integrated trial platform. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Los Angeles, California, Science 37 continues to innovate in the field of clinical research.
ImmPACT Bio
Series A in 2020
ImmPACT Bio USA Inc. is a cell therapy company focused on developing engineered T-cells specifically designed to target and treat solid tumors. By utilizing advanced technology, the company aims to create chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies that exhibit tumor specificity, allowing them to induce cytotoxicity only when interacting with tumor cells while sparing healthy tissues. This selective targeting mitigates the safety risks commonly associated with existing CAR-T therapies, providing a promising approach to cancer treatment that enhances efficacy and reduces potential harm to noncancerous cells.
mPharma
Series C in 2020
mPharma is a healthcare company focused on enhancing access to affordable medications in emerging markets. Founded in 2013 by Gregory Rockson, Daniel Shoukimas, and James Finucane, mPharma collaborates with drug manufacturers, insurance providers, financial institutions, and governments to streamline the delivery of prescription drugs to consumers. The company offers a pharmaceutical data analytics platform that assists pharmacies in managing their inventory, prescribing medications, and reporting adverse drug reactions. By ensuring that high-quality chronic disease medications are consistently available at sustainable prices, mPharma aims to improve health outcomes for patients, doctors, and pharmacists alike.
FoRx Therapeutics
Seed Round in 2020
FoRx Therapeutics AG is a biotechnology company based in Basel, Switzerland, founded in 2019. The company specializes in the development of innovative therapeutics for cancer treatment, specifically targeting key molecular pathways involved in DNA replication stress. By focusing on these novel pathways, FoRx Therapeutics aims to create first-in-class compounds that offer a new approach to targeted anticancer therapies. Through its research and development efforts, the company seeks to provide effective solutions in the fight against cancer.
Amblyotech
Acquisition in 2020
Amblyotech, LLC is an Atlanta-based company that specializes in developing electronic media therapies for the treatment of amblyopia and other ocular diseases in both adults and children. Founded in 2013, the company has created a novel application that enhances visual acuity and promotes the establishment of 3D vision, utilizing active gaming and passive video technology with 3D glasses. This innovative approach provides an alternative to traditional treatment methods such as patching, atropine drops, and surgery. Amblyotech's solutions are designed for use on various electronic devices, including tablets, computers, and smartphones. As of April 2020, Amblyotech operates as a subsidiary of Novartis AG.
TScan Therapeutics
Series B in 2020
TScan Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to discovering and developing innovative T cell receptor (TCR) engineered therapies to combat various cancers. Based in Waltham, Massachusetts, the company focuses on TCR-T therapies for both liquid cancers and solid tumors. Its lead candidates, TSC-100 and TSC-101, are designed to address hematologic malignancies, specifically targeting residual leukemia and preventing relapse after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. In addition, TScan is advancing a multiplexed TCR-T therapy program aimed at treating a range of solid tumors. The company's proprietary platform identifies clinically relevant T cell antigens and minimizes off-target effects, enhancing the precision of its therapies. Founded in 2018, TScan Therapeutics is committed to improving outcomes for patients with serious diseases.
The Medicines Company
Acquisition in 2019
The Medicines Company is a pharmaceutical firm dedicated to improving the treatment of critical care patients by offering innovative and cost-effective medicines to hospitals worldwide. The company's primary product, Angiomax, is an anticoagulant used in conjunction with aspirin for patients undergoing coronary angioplasty. Additionally, The Medicines Company markets Cleviprex, an injectable emulsion for managing blood pressure when oral medications are not suitable. In its development pipeline, the company has two late-stage products: cangrelor, an investigational antiplatelet agent, and oritavancin, a semi-synthetic lipoglycopeptide antibiotic. Furthermore, The Medicines Company is exploring a serine protease inhibitor, CU2010, which is currently in early-stage development.
Immunitas Therapeutics
Series A in 2019
Immunitas Therapeutics, Inc. is focused on developing targeted therapies for cancer patients through innovative single-cell analyses. Founded in 2019 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company utilizes a single-cell sequencing platform to explore the biology of immune cells within human tumors. This approach allows Immunitas to identify novel drug targets rooted in human biology and create key biomarkers that assist in selecting patients who may benefit from their therapies. By translating laboratory findings into clinical applications, Immunitas aims to address longstanding challenges in oncology and improve treatment options for complex cancers. The company is advancing multiple programs toward early human studies, leveraging expertise in antibody discovery and engineering to develop effective treatments.
Anokion
Series B in 2019
Anokion SA is a biotechnology company based in Ecublens, Switzerland, specializing in antigen-specific immune tolerance solutions. As a spin-off from the Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Anokion develops innovative immunotherapy aimed at reducing the immunogenicity of therapeutic proteins. The company's platform technology can be applied across a wide range of clinical indications, targeting both prevalent and rare autoimmune diseases, including celiac disease, multiple sclerosis, and type 1 diabetes. By engineering proteins or antigens for precise therapy, Anokion aims to provide effective treatment options that minimize side effects, thereby improving patient outcomes in the management of autoimmune and allergic diseases.
Renovacor
Series A in 2019
Renovacor, Inc. is a preclinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, dedicated to developing gene therapies for cardiovascular diseases. Founded in 2013, the company focuses on innovative treatments for dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), particularly cases caused by mutations in the BAG3 gene. This condition affects over 3 million individuals in the United States, with around 35,000 patients estimated to have BAG3 mutations, classifying it as an orphan disease. Patients with BAG3-associated DCM, often younger and experiencing faster disease progression, currently have limited treatment options, primarily consisting of standard heart failure care. Renovacor's lead program involves a recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based gene therapy aimed at replacing the defective BAG3 gene, which holds the potential to prevent disease progression and improve outcomes for this vulnerable patient population.
TScan Therapeutics
Series B in 2019
TScan Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to discovering and developing innovative T cell receptor (TCR) engineered therapies to combat various cancers. Based in Waltham, Massachusetts, the company focuses on TCR-T therapies for both liquid cancers and solid tumors. Its lead candidates, TSC-100 and TSC-101, are designed to address hematologic malignancies, specifically targeting residual leukemia and preventing relapse after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. In addition, TScan is advancing a multiplexed TCR-T therapy program aimed at treating a range of solid tumors. The company's proprietary platform identifies clinically relevant T cell antigens and minimizes off-target effects, enhancing the precision of its therapies. Founded in 2018, TScan Therapeutics is committed to improving outcomes for patients with serious diseases.
Forendo Pharma
Venture Round in 2019
Forendo Pharma Oy is a drug discovery and development company based in Turku, Finland, established in 2013. The company focuses on the tissue-specific regulation of sex hormone effects to address various urological and endocrinological diseases. Its key products include Fispemifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator designed to treat symptoms of low testosterone in men, and a 17HSD1-inhibitor targeting endometriosis. Forendo Pharma aims to enhance treatment options for both men's and women's health by developing innovative therapies that address unmet medical needs in gynecological conditions, such as endometriosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome.
Cala Health
Series C in 2019
Cala Health, Inc. is a bioelectronic medicine company based in Burlingame, California, founded in 2013. It specializes in developing wearable neuromodulation therapies aimed at treating chronic diseases. The company's flagship product, Cala Trio, is a non-invasive prescription therapy designed to provide transient relief from hand tremors in adults with essential tremor. By integrating advancements in neuroscience and technology, Cala Health focuses on delivering individualized peripheral nerve stimulation. In addition to its work on essential tremor, the company is also developing therapies for other neurological conditions, including Parkinson's disease, as well as applications in psychiatry, cardiology, and autoimmune disorders.
TestCard
Venture Round in 2019
TestCard is a healthcare technology company focused on enhancing the accessibility and accuracy of non-invasive testing. Its innovative platform allows users to conduct medical tests at home by combining traditional laboratory testing methods with mobile technology. By embedding urine samples into a proprietary testing card, users can obtain clinical-grade results through a mobile application. This approach not only ensures more accurate and reliable readings compared to traditional visual assessments but also facilitates immediate access to healthcare solutions. Additionally, TestCard's digital connectivity enables integration with hospital electronic patient record systems, streamlining the route to treatment through established healthcare partnerships.
Xealth
Series A in 2019
Xealth Inc. operates a digital health prescribing platform that allows clinicians to integrate, prescribe, and monitor digital health tools directly from electronic health record (EHR) workflows. Founded in 2016 and based in Seattle, Washington, the platform facilitates patient engagement by enabling care teams to order appropriate digital health tools and programs, which can be sent to patients via email or patient portals. In addition to managing digital health prescriptions, the platform supports patient education and offers non-clinical services such as ride shares and food delivery. This comprehensive approach allows clinicians to monitor patient activity and engagement, ultimately enhancing the overall effectiveness of digital health initiatives within healthcare systems.
Anthos Therapeutics
Series A in 2019
Anthos Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on developing innovative therapies for cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Founded in 2018, the company specializes in treatments targeting Factor XI and XIa, essential components of the intrinsic coagulation pathway. Its lead product, MAA868, is an antibody designed to provide an anti-thrombotic effect, allowing healthcare professionals to prevent various thrombotic diseases while minimizing the risk of bleeding. By advancing long-acting treatment options, Anthos Therapeutics aims to improve care for patients suffering from cardiovascular conditions, representing a significant advancement over conventional therapies.
Athelas
Series A in 2019
Athelas, Inc. is a healthcare company based in Mountain View, California, that specializes in developing and manufacturing in-home blood analysis devices aimed at diagnosing infections, inflammations, and malignancies. Founded in 2002, Athelas has created a portable optical unit that analyzes blood samples from a single drop, providing diagnostic reports to monitor the immune system. The company's FDA-cleared device is designed to help chronically ill patients manage their health at home, offering additional monitoring for blood pressure, weight, glucose levels, and medication adherence. This technology enables patients to monitor their immunity and assists healthcare providers in the early detection of conditions such as leukemia and other inflammatory diseases. Athelas operates as a subsidiary of MerLion Pharmaceuticals Pte. Ltd.
Ribon Therapeutics
Series B in 2019
Ribon Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Lexington, Massachusetts, focused on developing novel cancer therapies that target monoPARP proteins, which are essential regulators of cancer survival mechanisms. Established in 2015, Ribon is leveraging insights from its scientific founders and an experienced management team to create a proprietary drug discovery platform aimed at understanding the molecular actions and biological functions of monoPARPs. This platform enables the development of small molecule inhibitors designed to disrupt cancer cells' abilities to withstand stress, potentially leading to innovative treatments for cancer and other diseases. The company is supported by notable life science investors, positioning it for growth in the biopharmaceutical sector.
Pear Therapeutics
Series C in 2019
Pear Therapeutics, Inc. is a healthcare company specializing in the discovery, development, and delivery of software-based therapeutics aimed at treating behavioral health disorders, including addiction, schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, and chronic insomnia. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Boston, with an additional office in San Francisco, Pear Therapeutics offers a range of digital therapies designed to enhance treatment outcomes. Notable products include reSET, a tool for substance abuse treatment used alongside traditional therapy; reSET-O, which addresses opioid use disorder; and Somryst, aimed at chronic insomnia. The company also provides PearConnect, a patient services center that connects users with advocates, clinicians, and insurance providers to facilitate support and resource access throughout treatment. By integrating digital interventions with pharmaceuticals, Pear Therapeutics aims to improve patient engagement, clinical outcomes, and cost-effectiveness in healthcare.
Occlufit
Venture Round in 2019
Occlufit AG, founded in 2018 and based in Zurich, Switzerland, specializes in the design and development of an innovative cardiovascular occluder device known as Occlufit. This device is engineered to conform to complex anatomical geometries, allowing for immediate sealing of cardiovascular defects, which is crucial in preventing conditions such as heart failure and stroke. The Occlufit device features a conformable metallic mesh mounted on a compliant balloon, facilitating effective expansion and defect sealing. The company focuses on advancing its products within the cardiovascular medical sector, emphasizing engineering, intellectual property, regulatory compliance, clinical processes, and financial management.
CELLforCURE
Acquisition in 2018
CellforCure is an innovative company specializing in advanced therapy medicinal products, particularly in the field of cell and gene therapy. It operates a cell therapy business that caters to hospitals and clinics, providing essential medicinal products designed to enhance patient care. Through its focus on advanced therapeutic solutions, CellforCure plays a significant role in the evolving landscape of medical treatments, addressing the growing demand for effective and targeted therapies.
Galera Therapeutics
Series C in 2018
Galera Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Malvern, Pennsylvania, dedicated to developing innovative therapeutics aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of radiotherapy for cancer patients. The company's lead product candidate, avasopasem manganese (GC4419), is a small molecule dismutase mimetic currently undergoing Phase III clinical trials for the treatment of radiation-induced severe oral mucositis in patients with head and neck cancer. Additionally, GC4419 is being evaluated in Phase IIa trials for the treatment of radiotherapy-induced esophagitis in lung cancer patients. Galera is also advancing another candidate, GC4711, which is in Phase I/II trials for pancreatic and lung cancers. The company's research is focused on targeting oxygen metabolic pathways to improve patient outcomes in radiation therapy, and GC4419 has received Fast Track and Breakthrough Therapy designations from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Forendo Pharma
Venture Round in 2018
Forendo Pharma Oy is a drug discovery and development company based in Turku, Finland, established in 2013. The company focuses on the tissue-specific regulation of sex hormone effects to address various urological and endocrinological diseases. Its key products include Fispemifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator designed to treat symptoms of low testosterone in men, and a 17HSD1-inhibitor targeting endometriosis. Forendo Pharma aims to enhance treatment options for both men's and women's health by developing innovative therapies that address unmet medical needs in gynecological conditions, such as endometriosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome.
Bicycle Therapeutics
Series B in 2018
Bicycle Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing a novel class of medicines known as Bicycles, which are synthetic short peptides designed to stabilize their structural geometry through two loops. The company primarily targets oncology indications with significant unmet medical needs. Its lead product candidate, BT1718, is a Bicycle Toxin Conjugate currently undergoing Phase I/IIa clinical trials aimed at tumors expressing Membrane Type 1 matrix metalloprotease. Other oncology candidates include BT5528, also in Phase I/IIa trials targeting EphA2, and BT8009, which is in preclinical studies for Nectin-4. Additionally, Bicycle Therapeutics is developing THR-149, a plasma kallikrein inhibitor that has completed Phase I trials for diabetic macular edema. The company collaborates with various biopharmaceutical organizations to advance programs in areas like anti-infectives and cardiovascular health. Founded in 2009, Bicycle Therapeutics is headquartered in Cambridge, United Kingdom.
Artios Pharma
Series B in 2018
Artios Pharma Limited is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, United Kingdom, that specializes in developing innovative cancer treatments targeting DNA damage response (DDR) pathways. Founded in 2015, the company is dedicated to creating first-in-class therapies aimed at selectively killing cancer cells. Artios's product pipeline features several promising programs, including a focus on DNA polymerase theta (Polθ), which plays a crucial role in DNA repair processes. Additionally, the company is advancing an in-licensed program that targets a newly identified protein linked to DDR and is developing a novel treatment aimed at DNA nucleases involved in these pathways. Artios collaborates with Cancer Research Technology and prominent DNA repair researchers globally to enhance its research and development efforts.
Enterprise Therapeutics
Series B in 2018
Enterprise Therapeutics, established in 2014 and headquartered in Brighton, UK, is a drug discovery company focused on developing therapies for respiratory diseases. Its primary focus is on chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, cystic fibrosis, and asthma. The company aims to create novel treatments that target the underlying mechanisms of mucus congestion, reducing lung infections and enhancing patients' quality of life.
AveXis
Acquisition in 2018
AveXis, now known as Novartis Gene Therapies, is a biotechnology company focused on developing and commercializing gene therapies aimed at treating rare and life-threatening neurological genetic disorders. Acquired by Novartis in 2018, the company specializes in motor neuron cell-targeted gene replacement therapies for conditions such as spinal muscular atrophy, Rett syndrome, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. By addressing these severe diseases, which often result in progressive muscle weakness, paralysis, and death, AveXis plays a crucial role in enhancing treatment options for affected patients and their families.
Zikani Therapeutics
Venture Round in 2018
Zikani Therapeutics, Inc. is focused on developing and commercializing innovative therapeutics for patients facing limited treatment options. The company utilizes its TURBO-ZM platform to create novel ribosome modulating agents (RMAs) aimed at addressing a variety of conditions, including cystic fibrosis, familial adenomatous polyposis, APC mutant colon cancer, recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, rare cancers, and other rare genetic diseases. Additionally, Zikani is developing antibiotic compounds that target serious, multi-drug resistant gram-negative infections, an area where existing treatments are often inadequate. Founded in 2014 and initially known as Macrolide Pharmaceuticals, the company is headquartered in Watertown, Massachusetts. Through its advancements in synthetic chemistry and microbiology, Zikani Therapeutics seeks to enhance patient recovery and improve outcomes in challenging medical scenarios.
Rani Therapeutics
Venture Round in 2018
Rani Therapeutics, LLC is a clinical-stage biotherapeutics company that focuses on the development of oral delivery technologies for large drug molecules, such as peptides, proteins, and antibodies. The company has created the RaniPill capsule, a proprietary and patented platform designed to administer biologics orally, offering a convenient alternative to traditional subcutaneous or intravenous injections. This capsule is engineered to deliver precise therapeutic doses upon reaching the small intestine. Rani Therapeutics is advancing various treatments, including TNFa inhibitors for inflammatory disorders, parathyroid hormone for osteoporosis, and human growth hormone for growth deficiencies. Additionally, their portfolio includes therapies for multiple sclerosis, type II diabetes, and various inflammatory diseases. Founded in 2012 and based in San Jose, California, Rani Therapeutics has conducted several preclinical and clinical studies to assess the safety and effectiveness of its technologies, building a robust intellectual property portfolio in the process.
Expansion Therapeutics
Series A in 2018
Expansion Therapeutics is a drug discovery and development company focused on creating small molecule medicines for RNA-mediated diseases. The company specializes in developing novel RNA-targeted drug candidates that have the potential to treat a wide range of severe health conditions. By leveraging its innovative technology, Expansion Therapeutics aims to provide effective treatment options for patients suffering from these challenging diseases.
Pear Therapeutics
Series B in 2018
Pear Therapeutics, Inc. is a healthcare company specializing in the discovery, development, and delivery of software-based therapeutics aimed at treating behavioral health disorders, including addiction, schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, and chronic insomnia. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Boston, with an additional office in San Francisco, Pear Therapeutics offers a range of digital therapies designed to enhance treatment outcomes. Notable products include reSET, a tool for substance abuse treatment used alongside traditional therapy; reSET-O, which addresses opioid use disorder; and Somryst, aimed at chronic insomnia. The company also provides PearConnect, a patient services center that connects users with advocates, clinicians, and insurance providers to facilitate support and resource access throughout treatment. By integrating digital interventions with pharmaceuticals, Pear Therapeutics aims to improve patient engagement, clinical outcomes, and cost-effectiveness in healthcare.
Semma Therapeutics
Series B in 2017
Semma Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on developing innovative cell therapies for patients with Type 1 diabetes. Founded in 2014, the company is dedicated to creating a transformative treatment that addresses the need for insulin injections by generating functional, insulin-producing beta cells through a proprietary method licensed from the laboratory of Professor Douglas Melton. Semma Therapeutics aims to combine these engineered cells with advanced devices to offer a potential replacement for the missing beta cells in diabetic patients, eliminating the need for immunosuppression. The company's ongoing research seeks to bring this novel therapeutic option to clinical settings, ultimately improving the lives of individuals living with diabetes.
Advanced Accelerator Applications
Acquisition in 2017
Advanced Accelerator Applications S.A., founded in 2002 and based in Saint Genis Pouilly, France, specializes in the development, production, and commercialization of molecular nuclear medicine products for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. The company offers a range of products including oxodotreotides, dotatate injections, edotreotide solutions, flurochol, and gluscan, which are used in oncology, cardiology, and neurology. Additionally, it provides innovative solutions like LysaKare for reducing kidney radiation exposure during therapy, DOPAVIEW for rapid tissue accumulation, CARDIOGEN for producing rubidium chloride, NEUROLITE for radiopharmaceutical preparation, LUMARK as a radiopharmaceutical precursor, and LEUKOKIT for leukocyte separation and labeling. The company's theragnostic platform uses radiolabeling to target tumor cells, aiding in diagnosis, monitoring, and staging. Advanced Accelerator Applications operates as a subsidiary of Novartis AG.
Rani Therapeutics
Series D in 2017
Rani Therapeutics, LLC is a clinical-stage biotherapeutics company that focuses on the development of oral delivery technologies for large drug molecules, such as peptides, proteins, and antibodies. The company has created the RaniPill capsule, a proprietary and patented platform designed to administer biologics orally, offering a convenient alternative to traditional subcutaneous or intravenous injections. This capsule is engineered to deliver precise therapeutic doses upon reaching the small intestine. Rani Therapeutics is advancing various treatments, including TNFa inhibitors for inflammatory disorders, parathyroid hormone for osteoporosis, and human growth hormone for growth deficiencies. Additionally, their portfolio includes therapies for multiple sclerosis, type II diabetes, and various inflammatory diseases. Founded in 2012 and based in San Jose, California, Rani Therapeutics has conducted several preclinical and clinical studies to assess the safety and effectiveness of its technologies, building a robust intellectual property portfolio in the process.
Neurovia
Series A in 2017
Neurovia, Inc. is a pharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, founded in 2013. The company focuses on developing therapies for neurological disorders, specifically targeting unmet medical needs associated with X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD). Neurovia's primary objective is to provide a treatment that can halt the progression of neurological deficits caused by this rare genetic disease. The company has developed a selective thyromimetic agent aimed at improving the quality of life for patients suffering from X-ALD.
ESCAPE Bio
Series A in 2017
ESCAPE Bio is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing small molecule therapies for genetically defined subpopulations affected by neurodegenerative diseases. Founded in 2015 and based in South San Francisco, California, the company aims to improve the lives of patients suffering from conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and sphingolipid storage disorders. ESCAPE Bio's pipeline includes innovative candidates like ESB1609, a small molecule S1P5 receptor agonist targeting CNS lysosomal storage disorders, and ESB5070, a kinase inhibitor specifically designed for Parkinson's patients with the LRRK2 G2019S variant. Additionally, the company is developing a program aimed at addressing the needs of Alzheimer's patients who carry the ApoE4 risk allele. Through its precision-targeted approach, ESCAPE Bio seeks to provide effective treatment options for individuals with these complex genetic profiles.
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