Novartis

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.

Elena Battistello Ph.D

Analyst

Laura Brass

Managing Director

Adam Cotton Ph.D

Associate

Mathias Frederiksen

Principal

Sharon Kiernan

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 Pharmaceuticals

Granite Bio

Series A in 2025
Granite Bio is a biotechnology company focused on developing novel monoclonal antibodies aimed at treating inflammatory, autoimmune, and fibrotic disorders. The company specializes in creating therapeutic antibodies that deplete pathogenic cells and selectively target key biological processes associated with these diseases. By concentrating on these advanced treatments, Granite Bio contributes to the broader fields of biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and diagnostics, ultimately seeking to improve patient outcomes in complex medical conditions.

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.

Alesta Therapeutics

Series A in 2025
Alesta Therapeutics is engaged in developing innovative therapies aimed at treating cancer by targeting chronic stress response pathways. The company focuses on small molecule biotech programs that address synthetic lethal metabolic dependencies essential for cancer cell survival. By targeting specific control mechanisms involved in these pathways, Alesta Therapeutics aims to provide new therapeutic approaches that can effectively disrupt the growth of cancer cells, thereby enhancing treatment options for patients.

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.

ONL Therapeutics

Series D in 2024
ONL Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative therapeutics to protect and improve vision in patients with retinal diseases and conditions. Founded in 2006 and headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the company specializes in creating photoreceptor protective agents that target the FAS apoptotic pathway. Its drug programs aim to safeguard photoreceptors, thereby enhancing outcomes for patients undergoing surgeries related to retinal detachment and other serious vision-threatening issues. Through its research and development efforts, ONL Therapeutics seeks to provide effective solutions for preserving sight and improving the quality of life for individuals affected by these conditions.

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.

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.

Mariana Oncology

Acquisition in 2024
Mariana Oncology is a biotechnology company focused on developing radiopharmaceuticals designed to target cancer cells using radioactive drugs. The company leverages expertise in ligand discovery, radiochemistry, and radiobiology, along with oncology translational and clinical research, to create a diverse pipeline aimed at treating various solid tumor types. By advancing the use of radiomedicines, Mariana Oncology seeks to enhance treatment options for medical professionals in their fight against cancer.

FundaMental Pharma

Seed Round in 2024
FundaMental Pharma is a neuroscience company focused on developing innovative treatments for neurological diseases at the preclinical stage. The company creates neuroprotective molecular spacers aimed at preventing neurodegeneration in the brain. Utilizing peptides and gene therapy, FundaMental Pharma specializes in diagnosing polymorphisms and is dedicated to developing a novel class of drugs that target untreatable neurological conditions. Through its research, the company seeks to provide pharmacological solutions for patients suffering from various challenging neurological disorders.

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.

Calypso Biotech

Acquisition in 2024
Calypso Biotech SA is an immunotherapy biotechnology company based in Plan-les-Ouates, Switzerland, founded in 2013 as a spin-off from Merck Serono. The company specializes in discovering and developing monoclonal antibodies aimed at treating immune pathologies, particularly for conditions with significant unmet medical needs, including severe gastrointestinal diseases. Calypso Biotech operates as a semi-virtual organization, leveraging a highly experienced management team with expertise in drug development. The company focuses on creating substantial value for investors through a portfolio of unique proprietary antibody candidates designed to control homeostasis and improve treatment outcomes for patients.

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.

Fore Biotherapeutics

Series D in 2023
Fore Biotherapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing precision oncology treatments tailored to patients with specific genetic mutations. By utilizing functional genomics, the company aims to create a pipeline of therapies that address unmet needs in cancer care. Fore Biotherapeutics conducts research to replicate naturally occurring mutations in vitro, allowing for the assessment of their impact on cellular signaling pathways and responses to various compounds. This approach not only facilitates the identification of novel target mutations but also helps biopharma companies broaden the patient subgroups that may benefit from existing cancer therapies.

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.

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.

Flare Therapeutics

Series B in 2023
Flare Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on developing small molecule medicines by exploring the biology of transcription factors. The company aims to identify 'switch sites,' which are druggable regions crucial for regulating transcription factors, to target mutations associated with various diseases. Flare's innovative approach has advanced its drug discovery efforts, resulting in a promising pipeline of programs that primarily address well-established transcription factors. Initially concentrating on precision oncology, the company's research also holds potential applications in neurology, rare genetic disorders, immunology, and inflammation. By leveraging insights from its scientific founders, Flare Therapeutics seeks to transform the treatment landscape for cancer patients and other disease areas.

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.

Oculis Holding

Post in 2023
Oculis is a global biopharmaceutical company focused on advancing eye care and preserving vision through innovative drug delivery solutions. The company's unique platform enables effective drug absorption in both the anterior and posterior segments of the eye, allowing for the treatment of conditions such as diabetic macular edema (DME) with a simple topical application, thus eliminating the need for invasive procedures. Oculis is developing several therapeutic candidates, including OCS-01, a topical treatment for DME; OCS-02, aimed at addressing dry eye disease; and OCS-05, which targets acute optic neuritis and other neuro-ophthalmic disorders. This novel approach not only facilitates treatment for posterior eye diseases but also reduces the required frequency of applications for anterior conditions compared to traditional eye drops.

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.

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.

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.

Anaveon

Series B in 2021
Anaveon AG is a biopharmaceutical company based in Bottmingen, Switzerland, founded in 2017. The company specializes in developing biologics that modulate cytokine functions, particularly focusing on next-generation IL-2 complexes. These complexes selectively enhance effector T cell functions, acting as effective immune adjuvants with a broad therapeutic window. Anaveon's innovative compounds demonstrate significant preclinical efficacy against cancer, both as standalone treatments and in combination with other therapies. The company's mission is to transform cytokines into life-saving treatments for patients suffering from various diseases characterized by immune system dysfunction. Through its targeted approach, Anaveon aims to provide substantial therapeutic benefits to cancer patients and others affected by immune pathology.

Xoma

Post in 2021
XOMA Corporation is a biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of therapeutic candidates, primarily in the fields of monoclonal antibodies and innovative drug technologies. With a robust pipeline, the company is developing proprietary product candidates such as X213, an allosteric inhibitor of prolactin action; XMetA, an insulin receptor-activating antibody for Type 2 diabetes; and therapies targeting metastatic melanoma and renal cell carcinoma. XOMA also has initiatives aimed at addressing unmet medical needs related to hyperparathyroidism. In addition to its own product development, the company licenses antibody discovery and optimization technologies and collaborates with major pharmaceutical firms, including Novartis and Takeda, to enhance clinical development efforts. Founded in 1981 and headquartered in Emeryville, California, XOMA is positioned at the forefront of biopharmaceutical innovation, contributing to advancements in healthcare.

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.

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.

Arctos Medical

Acquisition in 2021
Arctos Medical is a spin-off from the University of Bern that focuses on developing optogenetic therapies to address common forms of blindness, particularly those caused by inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs). Unlike traditional approaches that target rare genetic eye diseases, Arctos Medical's innovative gene therapy aims to enhance the quality of visual information transmitted to the brain, thereby offering potential treatments for patients experiencing complete vision loss. Through its research and development efforts, the company seeks to improve the lives of individuals affected by various forms of blindness.

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.

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.

Oculis Holding

Series C in 2021
Oculis is a global biopharmaceutical company focused on advancing eye care and preserving vision through innovative drug delivery solutions. The company's unique platform enables effective drug absorption in both the anterior and posterior segments of the eye, allowing for the treatment of conditions such as diabetic macular edema (DME) with a simple topical application, thus eliminating the need for invasive procedures. Oculis is developing several therapeutic candidates, including OCS-01, a topical treatment for DME; OCS-02, aimed at addressing dry eye disease; and OCS-05, which targets acute optic neuritis and other neuro-ophthalmic disorders. This novel approach not only facilitates treatment for posterior eye diseases but also reduces the required frequency of applications for anterior conditions compared to traditional eye drops.

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.

Cadent Therapeutics

Acquisition in 2020
Cadent Therapeutics, Inc. is a precision neuroscience company focused on developing innovative therapies for serious neurological and psychiatric disorders. Founded in 2010 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company specializes in small molecule therapeutics that target NMDA receptors to address conditions such as depression, schizophrenia, Rett syndrome, and other cognitive and movement disorders. Cadent's approach combines target specificity, patient selection, and drug design to create allosteric modulators that can enhance neuronal firing regularity and restore brain rhythms. By leveraging novel quantitative endpoints, Cadent aims to develop first-in-class medications that improve cognitive and motor functions in patients, ultimately enhancing clinical outcomes for those suffering from various neurological diseases.

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.

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.

Molecular Partners

Post in 2020
Molecular Partners is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative therapies for serious diseases, with a primary emphasis on oncology. The company specializes in a unique class of protein therapeutics known as DARPin® therapeutics, which are engineered to be potent, specific, and versatile. Molecular Partners has an extensive product pipeline that is organized into three main areas: ophthalmology, targeting retinal diseases such as wet age-related macular degeneration and diabetic macular edema; oncology, featuring DARPin candidates with novel mechanisms of action, including multi-DARPin compounds; and additional therapeutic areas. Through its research and development efforts, Molecular Partners aims to significantly enhance disease management and patient outcomes.

Rappta Therapeutics

Series A in 2020
Rappta Therapeutics Oy is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative anti-cancer drugs that target protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A), a vital enzyme involved in regulating protein de-phosphorylation and tumor growth. Established in 2019 and headquartered in Helsinki, Finland, with an additional office in the United States, the company is in the lead-optimization stage of creating a first-in-class series of molecules aimed at reactivating this key tumor suppressor. The firm employs proprietary development tools to facilitate rational drug design, aiming to provide therapeutic solutions for various cancer types and select non-oncology conditions.

Fore Biotherapeutics

Series C in 2020
Fore Biotherapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing precision oncology treatments tailored to patients with specific genetic mutations. By utilizing functional genomics, the company aims to create a pipeline of therapies that address unmet needs in cancer care. Fore Biotherapeutics conducts research to replicate naturally occurring mutations in vitro, allowing for the assessment of their impact on cellular signaling pathways and responses to various compounds. This approach not only facilitates the identification of novel target mutations but also helps biopharma companies broaden the patient subgroups that may benefit from existing cancer therapies.

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.

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.

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.

Arctos Medical

Seed Round in 2019
Arctos Medical is a spin-off from the University of Bern that focuses on developing optogenetic therapies to address common forms of blindness, particularly those caused by inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs). Unlike traditional approaches that target rare genetic eye diseases, Arctos Medical's innovative gene therapy aims to enhance the quality of visual information transmitted to the brain, thereby offering potential treatments for patients experiencing complete vision loss. Through its research and development efforts, the company seeks to improve the lives of individuals affected by various forms of blindness.

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.

SiO2 Materials Science

Venture Round in 2019
SiO2 Materials Science specializes in the design and manufacturing of precision-molded plastic containers with advanced gas barrier properties comparable to glass. The company employs proprietary plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) technology to produce various medical products, including syringes, vials, and blood tubes. These containers feature low protein binding surfaces, which are crucial for enhancing the performance and safety of pharmaceuticals. By offering customized solutions with thin, transparent coatings on drug contact surfaces, SiO2 Materials Science supports clients in the development and commercialization of innovative medical products.

Adicet Bio

Series B in 2019
Adicet Bio is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the design and development of allogeneic gamma delta T cell therapies aimed at treating cancer and other diseases. The company is advancing a pipeline of engineered gamma delta T cells, which are enhanced with chimeric antigen receptors and T cell receptor-like antibodies to improve tumor targeting and bolster the immune response. Its lead product candidate, ADI-001, is a first-in-class therapy that targets CD20 and is being developed for the treatment of autoimmune diseases and relapsed or refractory aggressive B cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Additionally, Adicet's pipeline includes ADI-270, an armored gamma delta CAR T cell product candidate targeting renal cell carcinoma, with potential applications for other solid tumors and hematological malignancies.

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.

Ayala Pharmaceuticals

Series B in 2019
Ayala Pharmaceuticals is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Rehovot, Israel, founded in 2017. The company specializes in developing small molecule therapeutics for rare and aggressive cancers, focusing on genetically defined patient populations. Its lead product candidate is AL101, an intravenous gamma secretase inhibitor currently in Phase II clinical trials for treating recurrent/metastatic adenoid cystic carcinoma in patients with Notch-activating mutations. Additionally, Ayala Pharmaceuticals is developing AL102, an oral gamma secretase inhibitor in Phase I clinical trials for desmoid tumors. The company has a collaboration agreement with Novartis to develop AL102 for multiple myeloma. Ayala's approach involves using bioinformatics and next-generation sequencing to identify and address tumorigenic drivers of cancer, aiming to deliver targeted therapies to underserved patient populations.

Xiidra

Acquisition in 2019
Xiidra is a pharmaceutical company that specializes in developing a prescription eye drop solution aimed at treating the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease (DED). The product is a non-steroidal eye drop that specifically addresses the inflammation associated with DED, providing relief to individuals suffering from this condition. By focusing on both the symptoms and underlying causes of dry eye disease, Xiidra offers an effective treatment option for patients seeking to manage their discomfort.

Twentyeight-Seven Therapeutics

Series A in 2019
Twentyeight-Seven Therapeutics is a developer of microRNAs designed to target regulatory proteins.The company's modulating RNA which are short non-coding RNAs that inhibit target gene expression by suppressing mRNA translation and promoting mRNA decay and develop small molecules that can modulate levels of miRNAs by targeting proteins that interact with these miRNAs, enabling users to target miRNAs are directly involved in cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis.

Poseida Therapeutics

Series C in 2019
Poseida Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Diego, California, dedicated to developing innovative therapeutics for patients with significant unmet medical needs. The company utilizes non-viral gene engineering technologies to create a pipeline of targeted therapies, including both autologous and allogeneic chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) product candidates aimed at treating hematological malignancies and solid tumors. Additionally, Poseida is advancing gene therapies for rare and life-threatening conditions, such as Ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency, methylmalonic acidemia, and various genetic liver diseases. Founded in 2014, Poseida is committed to addressing critical health challenges through its focused research and development efforts.

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.

Anaveon

Series A in 2019
Anaveon AG is a biopharmaceutical company based in Bottmingen, Switzerland, founded in 2017. The company specializes in developing biologics that modulate cytokine functions, particularly focusing on next-generation IL-2 complexes. These complexes selectively enhance effector T cell functions, acting as effective immune adjuvants with a broad therapeutic window. Anaveon's innovative compounds demonstrate significant preclinical efficacy against cancer, both as standalone treatments and in combination with other therapies. The company's mission is to transform cytokines into life-saving treatments for patients suffering from various diseases characterized by immune system dysfunction. Through its targeted approach, Anaveon aims to provide substantial therapeutic benefits to cancer patients and others affected by immune pathology.

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.

Annexon Biosciences

Series C in 2018
Annexon Biosciences is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative therapies for patients suffering from classical complement-mediated disorders affecting the body, brain, and eye. The company's research is centered around its platform technology that targets classical complement-mediated autoimmune and neurodegenerative diseases associated with the abnormal activation of C1q, a key molecule in the classical complement pathway. Annexon's lead product candidate, ANX005, is a full-length monoclonal antibody intended for intravenous use in treating autoimmune and neurodegenerative disorders. Another candidate, ANX007, is a monoclonal antibody Fab formulated for intravitreal administration aimed at neurodegenerative ophthalmic conditions. The company employs a disciplined, biomarker-driven development strategy to ensure its therapies effectively engage the target at tolerable doses within the intended patient tissues, while also exploring additional indications within both orphan and larger market segments.

Endocyte

Acquisition in 2018
Endocyte, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing receptor-targeted therapies for cancer and inflammatory diseases. Headquartered in West Lafayette, Indiana, the company creates innovative small molecule drug conjugates (SMDCs) and companion imaging agents. Among its key products, Vintafolide is in Phase IIb clinical trials for non-small cell lung cancer, while EC1456 and EC1169 are in Phase I trials for advanced solid tumors and metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer, respectively. Additionally, Endocyte is developing several pre-clinical candidates, including EC2629 for cancer treatment and EC2319 for inflammatory diseases. The company has established collaborations with Purdue Research Foundation and other organizations to advance its pipeline. Founded in 1995, Endocyte operates as a subsidiary of Novartis AG.

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.

Twentyeight-Seven Therapeutics

Series A in 2018
Twentyeight-Seven Therapeutics is a developer of microRNAs designed to target regulatory proteins.The company's modulating RNA which are short non-coding RNAs that inhibit target gene expression by suppressing mRNA translation and promoting mRNA decay and develop small molecules that can modulate levels of miRNAs by targeting proteins that interact with these miRNAs, enabling users to target miRNAs are directly involved in cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis.

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.

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.

Oculis Holding

Series B in 2018
Oculis is a global biopharmaceutical company focused on advancing eye care and preserving vision through innovative drug delivery solutions. The company's unique platform enables effective drug absorption in both the anterior and posterior segments of the eye, allowing for the treatment of conditions such as diabetic macular edema (DME) with a simple topical application, thus eliminating the need for invasive procedures. Oculis is developing several therapeutic candidates, including OCS-01, a topical treatment for DME; OCS-02, aimed at addressing dry eye disease; and OCS-05, which targets acute optic neuritis and other neuro-ophthalmic disorders. This novel approach not only facilitates treatment for posterior eye diseases but also reduces the required frequency of applications for anterior conditions compared to traditional eye drops.

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.

Aelin Therapeutics

Series A in 2017
Aelin Therapeutics is a Belgian biotherapeutics company established in 2017 and headquartered in Heverlee. It specializes in developing innovative antibiotics and therapeutics through its proprietary Pept-in technology, which utilizes protein aggregation to achieve functional knockdown of target proteins. This platform is designed to address challenging medical conditions, including infections caused by Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and other undruggable targets in humans. The company was founded by VIB in collaboration with partner universities, including KU Leuven, VUB, and UGent, and is backed by extensive preclinical proof-of-concept data. Aelin Therapeutics' approach allows for the rational design of novel biotherapeutics, distinguishing itself from traditional therapeutic modalities by targeting intracellular spaces typically inaccessible to small molecules or antibodies. The technology's versatility extends beyond human applications, demonstrating efficacy against bacteria, cancer cells, fungi, viruses, and even plant cells.

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.

Homology Medicines

Series B in 2017
Homology Medicines, Inc., established in 2015 and headquartered in Bedford, Massachusetts, is a biotechnology company focused on developing genetic medicines for patients with rare genetic diseases. The company's proprietary platform employs human hematopoietic stem cell-derived adeno-associated virus vectors (AAVHSCs) to deliver genetic therapies or nuclease-free gene editing treatments in vivo, targeting various disease-relevant tissues such as the liver, central nervous system, and eye. Homology Medicines has two lead product candidates: HMI-102, currently in a Phase 1/2 clinical trial for treating phenylketonuria (PKU) in adults, and HMI-103, intended for PKU treatment in pediatric patients. Additionally, the company is developing HMI-202 to treat metachromatic leukodystrophy. Homology Medicines aims to cure the underlying causes of these diseases by leveraging its robust intellectual property portfolio and experienced management team with a proven track record in rare disease therapeutics.

Effector Therapeutics

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

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.

Anaeropharma Science

Venture Round in 2017
Anaeropharma Science, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Chiyoda, Japan, founded in 2004. The company specializes in developing therapeutics aimed at treating solid cancers characterized by hypoxic environments. Utilizing its proprietary platform technology, which involves recombinant Bifidobacterium, Anaeropharma has created innovative therapies such as APS001F, an anticancer solution, and FGF2, which addresses ischemia. Its approach involves genetically enhanced bacteria that thrive in the oxygen-deprived areas of tumors, where they convert a pro-drug into a cytotoxic agent. This technology enables healthcare professionals to provide more effective and safer treatments for various cancers and related hypoxic conditions.

Gamida Cell

Series F in 2017
Gamida Cell is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative cell therapies for patients with blood cancers and serious hematologic diseases. The company's lead product candidate, omidubicel, is an advanced therapy utilizing nicotinamide-expanded hematopoietic stem cells, currently undergoing Phase 3 trials for patients with high-risk hematologic malignancies and a Phase 1/2 trial for severe aplastic anemia. Additionally, Gamida Cell is advancing GDA-201, a natural killer cell-based immunotherapy that is in Phase 1/2 studies for the treatment of relapsed or refractory non-Hodgkin lymphoma and multiple myeloma. Founded in 1998 and headquartered in Jerusalem, Israel, the company employs a proprietary expansion platform that enhances the properties of nicotinamide to optimize allogeneic cell sources, including umbilical cord blood-derived cells.

ONL Therapeutics

Series A in 2017
ONL Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative therapeutics to protect and improve vision in patients with retinal diseases and conditions. Founded in 2006 and headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the company specializes in creating photoreceptor protective agents that target the FAS apoptotic pathway. Its drug programs aim to safeguard photoreceptors, thereby enhancing outcomes for patients undergoing surgeries related to retinal detachment and other serious vision-threatening issues. Through its research and development efforts, ONL Therapeutics seeks to provide effective solutions for preserving sight and improving the quality of life for individuals affected by these conditions.

Vivet Therapeutics

Series A in 2017
Vivet Therapeutics SAS is a biotechnology company focused on researching, developing, and commercializing gene therapy treatments for inherited liver disorders and orphan diseases. Founded in 2016 and based in Paris, France, the company employs a liver-targeting adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector to deliver therapeutic genes directly into hepatocytes, addressing genetic disorders at their source. Vivet is particularly known for its work on diseases such as Wilson disease, Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis, and Citrullinemia Type I. In collaboration with the Fundacion para la Investigacion Medica Aplicada and the Centro de Investigación Medica Aplicada at the University of Navarra, Vivet aims to enhance gene delivery technologies and ensure long-term expression of therapeutic genes, thereby advancing the field of gene therapy for liver-related conditions.

Semma Therapeutics

Venture Round 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.

Aerpio Pharmaceuticals

Venture Round in 2017
Aerpio Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Cincinnati, Ohio, focused on developing innovative compounds for the treatment of ocular diseases and diabetic complications. The company's lead candidate, razuprotafib, is a small molecule activator of the Tie2 pathway that has completed a Phase IIb clinical trial for diabetic retinopathy. Additionally, Aerpio is advancing ARP-1536, a humanized monoclonal antibody in preclinical development for diabetic vascular complications, and GB004, a selective stabilizer of hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha, currently undergoing a Phase 1b trial for inflammatory bowel disease. Furthermore, the company is developing a bispecific antibody for the treatment of wet age-related macular degeneration and diabetic macular edema. Aerpio has also partnered with Quantum Leap Healthcare Collaborative to evaluate razuprotafib's potential in treating acute respiratory distress syndrome in COVID-19 patients. Founded in 2011, Aerpio Pharmaceuticals aims for rapid development of its promising therapies.

Cavion

Series A in 2017
Cavion LLC is a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company focused on developing therapies for neurological and rare genetic diseases by modulating T-type calcium channels (Cav3). The company’s lead product, CX-8998, targets these channels in the nervous system, and Cavion aims to deliver innovative non-opioid treatments for conditions such as neuropathic pain, essential tremor, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and Angelman syndrome. Founded in 2003 and based in Charlottesville, Virginia, with an additional office in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Cavion was previously known as Tau Therapeutics LLC until its name change in 2014. The company is notable for being the first to target Cav3 ion channels in the treatment of solid tumors, with ongoing Phase 1 clinical trials investigating its potential in brain cancer. Cavion's approach leverages advanced chemistry and clinical expertise to enhance the efficacy of existing therapies, such as chemotherapy and radiation, against solid tumor cancers. As of August 2019, Cavion operates as a subsidiary of Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc.

Encore Vision

Acquisition in 2016
Encore Vision is a Fort Worth, Texas-based company that specializes in developing ophthalmic therapeutics aimed at treating presbyopia. Established in 2000, the company has made significant advancements in its technology, which involves an eye drop treatment designed to reduce lens stiffness and enhance flexibility, thereby improving near vision. Encore Vision has been supported by ophthalmologists and optometrists during its development phase, resulting in a robust patent portfolio that includes an issued U.S. patent, a notice of allowance for a second patent, and over 40 pending applications. The company has successfully completed in-vivo proof of concept studies in animal models and is progressing toward clinical trials for human applications. In addition to its therapeutic focus, Encore Vision also designs and supplies a range of eyewear products, including lenses and frames, and facilitates inquiries through its online platform.

Ziarco

Acquisition in 2016
Ziarco, Inc. is a biotechnology company founded in 2012 and based in Palo Alto, California. The company specializes in the development of therapeutic agents aimed at treating inflammatory and allergic diseases. Its primary focus is on inflammatory skin disorders, and its product pipeline includes a histamine H4 receptor antagonist program targeting various conditions such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, pruritus, skin diseases, and pain. Ziarco's innovations aim to provide effective treatment options for patients suffering from atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, enhancing their quality of life through improved therapeutic solutions.

Selexys Pharmaceuticals Corporation

Acquisition in 2016
Selexys Pharmaceuticals Corporation (Selexys) is a privately held company that is developing drugs to treat inflammatory and thrombotic diseases. They are targeting the underlying disease mechanism for these disorders. Their target is the adhesion of white blood cells to sites of inflammation mediated by the binding of two proteins, P-selectin and PSGL-1. The company is in preclinical development of humanized antibodies to P-selectin and PSGL-1 for the treatment of acute and chronic inflammatory and thrombotic disorders. Unregulated inflammatory processes play a major role in the harmful effects of multiple inflammatory disorders.

Inflazome

Series A in 2016
Inflazome Ltd. is a biotechnology company based in Dublin, Ireland, founded in 2016. It specializes in developing orally available drugs aimed at addressing unmet clinical needs in inflammatory diseases by targeting the inflammasome, a component involved in the inflammatory process. The company’s innovative therapies are designed to block inflammasome signals, effectively tackling various inflammatory-driven conditions. These include orphan diseases, central nervous system disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, systemic inflammatory diseases like cardiovascular and pulmonary conditions, and applications in ophthalmology and dermatology. By targeting the root causes of inflammation, Inflazome enables the development of precise treatments for a range of diseases, thereby enhancing therapeutic options for healthcare providers. As of September 2020, Inflazome operates as a subsidiary of Roche Holding AG.

Arcus Biosciences

Series B in 2016
Arcus Biosciences, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Hayward, California, focused on developing innovative cancer therapies. The company’s product pipeline includes several key candidates, such as AB928, a dual A2a/A2b adenosine receptor antagonist in Phase 1b/2 trials, and Zimberelimab, an anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody currently being evaluated in Phase Ib studies. Additionally, Arcus is advancing AB154, an anti-TIGIT monoclonal antibody in Phase 2 trials, and AB680, a small-molecule CD73 inhibitor in Phase 1/1b studies for the treatment of metastatic pancreatic cancer. The company collaborates with Strata Oncology and AstraZeneca to enhance the development of its therapies and has strategic partnerships with firms like WuXi Biologics. Founded in 2015, Arcus aims to leverage emerging insights in immunology to create effective cancer treatments across various indications, including non-small cell lung cancer and pancreatic cancer.

Annexon Biosciences

Series B in 2016
Annexon Biosciences is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative therapies for patients suffering from classical complement-mediated disorders affecting the body, brain, and eye. The company's research is centered around its platform technology that targets classical complement-mediated autoimmune and neurodegenerative diseases associated with the abnormal activation of C1q, a key molecule in the classical complement pathway. Annexon's lead product candidate, ANX005, is a full-length monoclonal antibody intended for intravenous use in treating autoimmune and neurodegenerative disorders. Another candidate, ANX007, is a monoclonal antibody Fab formulated for intravitreal administration aimed at neurodegenerative ophthalmic conditions. The company employs a disciplined, biomarker-driven development strategy to ensure its therapies effectively engage the target at tolerable doses within the intended patient tissues, while also exploring additional indications within both orphan and larger market segments.

F2G

Venture Round in 2016
F2G Ltd is a biotechnology company based in Manchester, United Kingdom, that specializes in developing innovative therapies for serious fungal diseases. Established in 1998, F2G focuses on its F3 series of antifungal compounds, particularly targeting challenging fungi such as Aspergillus and other filamentous molds that pose significant health risks. The company leverages its proprietary genomics technology, MycoBank, to identify critical gene targets in fungi, facilitating the creation of effective antifungal agents. Since its initial funding in 2002, F2G has expanded its research and development capabilities, enabling it to advance its patented compounds and contribute to addressing life-threatening fungal infections that affect individuals with compromised immune systems.

Galera Therapeutics

Series B in 2016
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.

Adicet Bio

Series A in 2016
Adicet Bio is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the design and development of allogeneic gamma delta T cell therapies aimed at treating cancer and other diseases. The company is advancing a pipeline of engineered gamma delta T cells, which are enhanced with chimeric antigen receptors and T cell receptor-like antibodies to improve tumor targeting and bolster the immune response. Its lead product candidate, ADI-001, is a first-in-class therapy that targets CD20 and is being developed for the treatment of autoimmune diseases and relapsed or refractory aggressive B cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Additionally, Adicet's pipeline includes ADI-270, an armored gamma delta CAR T cell product candidate targeting renal cell carcinoma, with potential applications for other solid tumors and hematological malignancies.

C4 Therapeutics

Series A in 2016
C4 Therapeutics, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative therapeutic candidates that target and eliminate disease-causing proteins, primarily for the treatment of cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. The company's lead product candidate, CFT7455, is an orally bioavailable degrader designed to target IKZF1/3 for multiple myeloma and other lymphomas. Additionally, C4 is advancing CFT8634, which targets BRD9 for specific solid tumors, alongside programs aimed at genetically defined resistant solid tumors. C4 Therapeutics utilizes its proprietary Degronimid platform, which allows for the selective degradation of proteins through the natural ubiquitin/proteasome system, potentially addressing previously undruggable targets while minimizing drug resistance. The company has formed strategic collaborations with major industry players, and it aims to make a significant impact on the treatment landscape through its advanced protein degradation science and multiple development programs. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Watertown, Massachusetts, C4 Therapeutics continues to innovate in the field of targeted therapy.

Effector Therapeutics

Series B in 2015
eFFECTOR Therapeutics Inc is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Diego, California. Established in 2012, the company specializes in developing selective translation regulators for cancer and other serious diseases. Its innovative approach involves small molecule drugs known as selective translation regulator inhibitors (STRIs), which target the eIF4F complex and its associated kinase, mitogen-activated protein kinase 1/2 (MNK 1/2). This complex plays a crucial role in the translation of specific messenger RNA into proteins linked to cancer progression. eFFECTOR's lead product candidate, tomivosertib, is currently being evaluated in a Phase 2b trial in combination with pembrolizumab for non-small cell lung cancer. Additionally, zotatifin, an inhibitor of eIF4A, is undergoing dose-escalation trials with plans for further expansion. The company also collaborates with Pfizer to develop inhibitors targeting eIF4E. Through these efforts, eFFECTOR aims to address the challenges of tumor growth, survival, and immune evasion in cancer treatment.
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