Leaps by Bayer

Leaps by Bayer is the corporate venture capital arm of Bayer, established in 2015 and headquartered in Leverkusen, Germany. The company focuses on investing in groundbreaking advancements within the life sciences, particularly in biotechnology and agriculture. By targeting disruptive biotechnologies, Leaps by Bayer aims to make significant and lasting contributions that can profoundly impact humanity. Through its strategic investments, the firm seeks to support innovations that address critical challenges in healthcare and food production.

Paimun Amini

Senior Director of Venture Investments Agriculture

Rakhshita Dhar

Senior Director of Venture Investments Health

Juergen Eckhardt

SVP and Head

Derek Norman

Vice President Ventures Investments, Agriculture

Fabio Pucci Ph.D

Senior Director of Venture Investments Health

Past deals in Genetics

Senti Bio

Post in 2024
Senti Bio, established in 2016 and headquartered in South San Francisco, specializes in synthetic biotechnology for therapeutic development. The company's core focus is engineering gene circuits, a platform technology that enables precise control over cellular behavior. Senti Bio's innovative approach allows for the creation of therapies with enhanced specificity and control, particularly in oncology. Their product pipeline includes SENTI-202, a targeted cancer therapy using gene-engineered allogeneic CAR-NK cells designed to eliminate cancer cells while sparing healthy bone marrow, and SENTI-301A for treating hepatocellular carcinoma.

Pairwise Plants

Series C in 2024
Pairwise Plants is an innovative agricultural company based in San Diego, California, focused on gene editing to enhance the quality of fruits and vegetables. Founded in 2017 by a team of experts in biotechnology and agriculture, Pairwise utilizes advanced techniques, including base editing and high-fidelity enzymes, which are licensed from renowned institutions such as Harvard and Massachusetts General Hospital. The company develops new varieties of crops, including leafy greens, berries, and stone fruits, in addition to working with traditional crops like corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, and canola. By collaborating with food and agriculture organizations, Pairwise aims to create healthier and more sustainable produce, with initial products expected to be available in the coming years.

Egenesis

Series D in 2024
Egenesis Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on gene editing and genome engineering to create human transplantable organs, tissues, and cells. Established in 2015 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with an additional office in New York City, Egenesis aims to address the global organ shortage by developing solid organs and therapeutic cell transplantation solutions for various diseases. The company utilizes a gene editing platform that incorporates techniques such as single-cell cloning and somatic cell nuclear transfer, which are essential for creating human-compatible organ tissues and cells. Egenesis is particularly engaged in advancing programs related to kidney and islet cell transplantation, striving to provide alternative treatment options for patients with life-threatening conditions.

GRO Biosciences

Series B in 2024
GRO Biosciences is a biotechnology company focused on developing advanced protein therapeutics to address various health conditions, including diabetes, growth disorders, and autoimmunity. The company employs innovative technologies in computational protein design and synthetic biology, which enable it to create genomically recoded strains of bacteria capable of incorporating non-standard amino acids into proteins. This approach enhances the properties of the proteins, resulting in increased potency, stability, and targeted delivery. Through its technology platform, GRO Biosciences aims to provide improved treatment options across multiple disease classes, contributing to advancements in medical therapeutics.

ReCode Therapeutics

Series B in 2023
ReCode Therapeutics, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing precision medicines for pulmonary diseases, particularly targeting genetic conditions such as primary ciliary dyskinesia and cystic fibrosis. Founded in 2015 and based in Menlo Park, California, the company utilizes a groundbreaking selective organ targeting (SORT) lipid nanoparticle platform. This innovative technology facilitates the precise delivery of genetic therapies, including mRNA and gene correction therapeutics, to specific organs and cells beyond the liver. By overcoming limitations of traditional gene therapy approaches, ReCode Therapeutics aims to address the needs of patients with rare and life-limiting respiratory diseases, thus providing new treatment options for those affected by genetic disorders.

Paratus Sciences

Series A in 2023
Paratus Sciences is a biotechnology company focused on enhancing human health and health security through the study of bat biology. By investigating the unique characteristics of the bat genome, the company aims to identify and develop therapeutics for various diseases. Leveraging insights gained from bat biology, Paratus Sciences seeks to enable patients to combat and potentially cure the diseases they face. Through its innovative approach, the company aspires to contribute significantly to advancements in medical treatments and public health.

Metagenomi

Series B in 2023
Metagenomi, Inc. is a genetic medicines company focused on developing innovative gene editing systems to address genetic diseases. Incorporated in 2016 and headquartered in Emeryville, California, Metagenomi utilizes metagenomics and machine learning to discover novel genome editing technologies. By sourcing cellular machinery from previously uncharacterized organisms, the company creates a proprietary toolbox that includes programmable nucleases, base editors, and advanced integration systems like prime editing and CRISPR-associated transposases. These systems are designed to be ultra-small, efficient, and highly specific, minimizing the risk of immune responses. Metagenomi aims to revolutionize gene editing techniques and deliver curative therapeutics to patients worldwide.

NuCicer

Seed Round in 2022
NuCicer is a company dedicated to transforming chickpeas into a staple superfood through the development of innovative varieties that offer enhanced nutritional benefits, improved flavor, and cost-effective ingredients. By leveraging the world's most diverse chickpea breeding library alongside a proprietary breeding innovation platform, NuCicer integrates plant genetics and machine learning to create customized chickpea varieties. These varieties are designed to have higher protein content and specific functional and nutritional properties, while also addressing environmental sustainability concerns. This approach not only meets the growing demand for nutritious food options but also supports the alternative-meat sector, ultimately aiming to reduce agriculture's environmental footprint and provide diverse solutions for the agri-food system.

ReCode Therapeutics

Series B in 2022
ReCode Therapeutics, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing precision medicines for pulmonary diseases, particularly targeting genetic conditions such as primary ciliary dyskinesia and cystic fibrosis. Founded in 2015 and based in Menlo Park, California, the company utilizes a groundbreaking selective organ targeting (SORT) lipid nanoparticle platform. This innovative technology facilitates the precise delivery of genetic therapies, including mRNA and gene correction therapeutics, to specific organs and cells beyond the liver. By overcoming limitations of traditional gene therapy approaches, ReCode Therapeutics aims to address the needs of patients with rare and life-limiting respiratory diseases, thus providing new treatment options for those affected by genetic disorders.

Senti Bio

Post in 2022
Senti Bio, established in 2016 and headquartered in South San Francisco, specializes in synthetic biotechnology for therapeutic development. The company's core focus is engineering gene circuits, a platform technology that enables precise control over cellular behavior. Senti Bio's innovative approach allows for the creation of therapies with enhanced specificity and control, particularly in oncology. Their product pipeline includes SENTI-202, a targeted cancer therapy using gene-engineered allogeneic CAR-NK cells designed to eliminate cancer cells while sparing healthy bone marrow, and SENTI-301A for treating hepatocellular carcinoma.

Senti Bio

Convertible Note in 2022
Senti Bio, established in 2016 and headquartered in South San Francisco, specializes in synthetic biotechnology for therapeutic development. The company's core focus is engineering gene circuits, a platform technology that enables precise control over cellular behavior. Senti Bio's innovative approach allows for the creation of therapies with enhanced specificity and control, particularly in oncology. Their product pipeline includes SENTI-202, a targeted cancer therapy using gene-engineered allogeneic CAR-NK cells designed to eliminate cancer cells while sparing healthy bone marrow, and SENTI-301A for treating hepatocellular carcinoma.

Affini-T Therapeutics

Venture Round in 2022
Affini-T Therapeutics is a biotechnology company developing T-cell therapies for patients suffering from cancer. Affini-T uses a validated platform to select high-affinity T cell receptors specific to oncogenic mutations to pioneer cutting-edge solid tumor therapies. Affini-T leverages gene editing and synthetic biology to engineer novel T-cell therapies designed to eradicate tumors.

Gandeeva Therapeutics

Series A in 2022
Gandeeva Therapeutics is a precision biotechnology company focused on developing innovative therapeutics by leveraging cryogenic electron microscopy and machine learning to target and modulate key protein-protein interactions. The company employs a comprehensive structure-guided drug discovery platform that includes target prediction and validation, hit identification from virtual and fragment libraries, and lead optimization. Gandeeva's preclinical oncology pipeline is designed to address challenging cancers through the creation of novel protein interaction modulators, specifically interfacial glues and allosteric inhibitors. Headquartered in the Greater Vancouver area, Canada, Gandeeva Therapeutics aims to enhance treatment options and reduce the risks of late-stage clinical failures in oncology.

Metagenomi

Series B in 2022
Metagenomi, Inc. is a genetic medicines company focused on developing innovative gene editing systems to address genetic diseases. Incorporated in 2016 and headquartered in Emeryville, California, Metagenomi utilizes metagenomics and machine learning to discover novel genome editing technologies. By sourcing cellular machinery from previously uncharacterized organisms, the company creates a proprietary toolbox that includes programmable nucleases, base editors, and advanced integration systems like prime editing and CRISPR-associated transposases. These systems are designed to be ultra-small, efficient, and highly specific, minimizing the risk of immune responses. Metagenomi aims to revolutionize gene editing techniques and deliver curative therapeutics to patients worldwide.

GRO Biosciences

Series A in 2021
GRO Biosciences is a biotechnology company focused on developing advanced protein therapeutics to address various health conditions, including diabetes, growth disorders, and autoimmunity. The company employs innovative technologies in computational protein design and synthetic biology, which enable it to create genomically recoded strains of bacteria capable of incorporating non-standard amino acids into proteins. This approach enhances the properties of the proteins, resulting in increased potency, stability, and targeted delivery. Through its technology platform, GRO Biosciences aims to provide improved treatment options across multiple disease classes, contributing to advancements in medical therapeutics.

Century Therapeutics

Series C in 2021
Century Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative cell therapies derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to treat hematologic and solid malignancies. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the company utilizes a specialized platform that integrates gene editing and protein engineering to create allogeneic therapies. This platform allows for the generation of master cell banks of modified immune effector cells, specifically engineered to optimize performance and reduce the risk of rejection by the host immune system. By employing advanced technologies such as CRISPR-mediated gene editing and proprietary chimeric antigen receptors, Century Therapeutics aims to address significant unmet medical needs in cancer and other diseases.

Egenesis

Series C in 2021
Egenesis Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on gene editing and genome engineering to create human transplantable organs, tissues, and cells. Established in 2015 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with an additional office in New York City, Egenesis aims to address the global organ shortage by developing solid organs and therapeutic cell transplantation solutions for various diseases. The company utilizes a gene editing platform that incorporates techniques such as single-cell cloning and somatic cell nuclear transfer, which are essential for creating human-compatible organ tissues and cells. Egenesis is particularly engaged in advancing programs related to kidney and islet cell transplantation, striving to provide alternative treatment options for patients with life-threatening conditions.

Amfora

Series B in 2021
Amfora, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2016. The company focuses on developing nutritional forage crops through innovative biotechnological processes, particularly gene editing, to enhance the protein density of various crops, including soybeans, wheat, and rice. Amfora aims to address the growing global demand for high-protein foods by increasing the nutritional density of food and feed crops. By doing so, the company aspires to contribute to sustainable agricultural practices while simultaneously reducing food costs and the environmental impact associated with food production. Amfora's mission highlights its commitment to improving wellness and nutrition as part of the broader plant-based protein revolution.

Pairwise Plants

Series B in 2021
Pairwise Plants is an innovative agricultural company based in San Diego, California, focused on gene editing to enhance the quality of fruits and vegetables. Founded in 2017 by a team of experts in biotechnology and agriculture, Pairwise utilizes advanced techniques, including base editing and high-fidelity enzymes, which are licensed from renowned institutions such as Harvard and Massachusetts General Hospital. The company develops new varieties of crops, including leafy greens, berries, and stone fruits, in addition to working with traditional crops like corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, and canola. By collaborating with food and agriculture organizations, Pairwise aims to create healthier and more sustainable produce, with initial products expected to be available in the coming years.

Senti Bio

Series B in 2021
Senti Bio, established in 2016 and headquartered in South San Francisco, specializes in synthetic biotechnology for therapeutic development. The company's core focus is engineering gene circuits, a platform technology that enables precise control over cellular behavior. Senti Bio's innovative approach allows for the creation of therapies with enhanced specificity and control, particularly in oncology. Their product pipeline includes SENTI-202, a targeted cancer therapy using gene-engineered allogeneic CAR-NK cells designed to eliminate cancer cells while sparing healthy bone marrow, and SENTI-301A for treating hepatocellular carcinoma.

Metagenomi

Series A in 2020
Metagenomi, Inc. is a genetic medicines company focused on developing innovative gene editing systems to address genetic diseases. Incorporated in 2016 and headquartered in Emeryville, California, Metagenomi utilizes metagenomics and machine learning to discover novel genome editing technologies. By sourcing cellular machinery from previously uncharacterized organisms, the company creates a proprietary toolbox that includes programmable nucleases, base editors, and advanced integration systems like prime editing and CRISPR-associated transposases. These systems are designed to be ultra-small, efficient, and highly specific, minimizing the risk of immune responses. Metagenomi aims to revolutionize gene editing techniques and deliver curative therapeutics to patients worldwide.

Egenesis

Series B in 2019
Egenesis Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on gene editing and genome engineering to create human transplantable organs, tissues, and cells. Established in 2015 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with an additional office in New York City, Egenesis aims to address the global organ shortage by developing solid organs and therapeutic cell transplantation solutions for various diseases. The company utilizes a gene editing platform that incorporates techniques such as single-cell cloning and somatic cell nuclear transfer, which are essential for creating human-compatible organ tissues and cells. Egenesis is particularly engaged in advancing programs related to kidney and islet cell transplantation, striving to provide alternative treatment options for patients with life-threatening conditions.

Century Therapeutics

Series A in 2019
Century Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative cell therapies derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to treat hematologic and solid malignancies. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the company utilizes a specialized platform that integrates gene editing and protein engineering to create allogeneic therapies. This platform allows for the generation of master cell banks of modified immune effector cells, specifically engineered to optimize performance and reduce the risk of rejection by the host immune system. By employing advanced technologies such as CRISPR-mediated gene editing and proprietary chimeric antigen receptors, Century Therapeutics aims to address significant unmet medical needs in cancer and other diseases.

AgBiome

Series C in 2018
AgBiome, LLC is a biotechnology company based in Durham, North Carolina, that focuses on the agriculture industry through the development of biological products. Founded in 2012, AgBiome leverages its expertise in plant-associated microbes and modern genomics to create innovative solutions aimed at enhancing plant health, pest resistance, and crop yields. The company addresses critical agricultural challenges, including soil-borne diseases, insects, and nematodes, by offering fungicides and a platform that identifies and screens diverse microbial strains. AgBiome collaborates with prominent agricultural partners to accelerate discovery processes and broaden the reach of its sustainable products in global markets. With a dedicated team of over 85 employees and a state-of-the-art laboratory and greenhouse facility, AgBiome is committed to improving food production responsibly.

Pairwise Plants

Series A in 2018
Pairwise Plants is an innovative agricultural company based in San Diego, California, focused on gene editing to enhance the quality of fruits and vegetables. Founded in 2017 by a team of experts in biotechnology and agriculture, Pairwise utilizes advanced techniques, including base editing and high-fidelity enzymes, which are licensed from renowned institutions such as Harvard and Massachusetts General Hospital. The company develops new varieties of crops, including leafy greens, berries, and stone fruits, in addition to working with traditional crops like corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, and canola. By collaborating with food and agriculture organizations, Pairwise aims to create healthier and more sustainable produce, with initial products expected to be available in the coming years.

AgBiome

Series B in 2015
AgBiome, LLC is a biotechnology company based in Durham, North Carolina, that focuses on the agriculture industry through the development of biological products. Founded in 2012, AgBiome leverages its expertise in plant-associated microbes and modern genomics to create innovative solutions aimed at enhancing plant health, pest resistance, and crop yields. The company addresses critical agricultural challenges, including soil-borne diseases, insects, and nematodes, by offering fungicides and a platform that identifies and screens diverse microbial strains. AgBiome collaborates with prominent agricultural partners to accelerate discovery processes and broaden the reach of its sustainable products in global markets. With a dedicated team of over 85 employees and a state-of-the-art laboratory and greenhouse facility, AgBiome is committed to improving food production responsibly.

AgBiome

Venture Round in 2014
AgBiome, LLC is a biotechnology company based in Durham, North Carolina, that focuses on the agriculture industry through the development of biological products. Founded in 2012, AgBiome leverages its expertise in plant-associated microbes and modern genomics to create innovative solutions aimed at enhancing plant health, pest resistance, and crop yields. The company addresses critical agricultural challenges, including soil-borne diseases, insects, and nematodes, by offering fungicides and a platform that identifies and screens diverse microbial strains. AgBiome collaborates with prominent agricultural partners to accelerate discovery processes and broaden the reach of its sustainable products in global markets. With a dedicated team of over 85 employees and a state-of-the-art laboratory and greenhouse facility, AgBiome is committed to improving food production responsibly.

AgBiome

Seed Round in 2012
AgBiome, LLC is a biotechnology company based in Durham, North Carolina, that focuses on the agriculture industry through the development of biological products. Founded in 2012, AgBiome leverages its expertise in plant-associated microbes and modern genomics to create innovative solutions aimed at enhancing plant health, pest resistance, and crop yields. The company addresses critical agricultural challenges, including soil-borne diseases, insects, and nematodes, by offering fungicides and a platform that identifies and screens diverse microbial strains. AgBiome collaborates with prominent agricultural partners to accelerate discovery processes and broaden the reach of its sustainable products in global markets. With a dedicated team of over 85 employees and a state-of-the-art laboratory and greenhouse facility, AgBiome is committed to improving food production responsibly.
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