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.
Senior Director of Venture Investments Agriculture
Fabio Pucci Ph.D
Senior Director of Venture Investments Health
Past deals in Genetics
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 focused on developing advanced protein therapeutics by utilizing innovative technologies in computational protein design and synthetic biology. The company has created several genomically recoded strains of bacteria that enable the incorporation of non-standard amino acids into proteins. This approach enhances the potency, stability, and targeted delivery of these therapeutics. GRO Biosciences aims to apply its technology to improve treatments for a range of conditions, including diabetes, growth disorders, and autoimmunity, thereby addressing significant unmet medical needs.
ReCode Therapeutics
Series B in 2023
ReCode Therapeutics 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 employs a unique non-viral lipid nanoparticle platform that facilitates the precise delivery of nucleic acid and protein payloads to specific organs and tissues, enhancing the effectiveness of genetic therapies. This selective organ targeting (SORT) technology allows for the administration of corrective or disease-modifying treatments beyond the liver, addressing the challenges faced by traditional gene therapy methods. By harnessing these innovative techniques, ReCode Therapeutics aims to provide new therapeutic options for patients suffering from rare and life-limiting respiratory diseases.
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 exploring the unique aspects of the bat genome, the company aims to identify and develop therapeutics for a variety of diseases. Paratus Sciences seeks to unlock the secrets of bat biology to facilitate innovative treatments, ultimately helping patients combat the health challenges they encounter.
Metagenomi
Series B in 2023
Metagenomi, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing gene editing systems aimed at treating genetic diseases. Founded in 2016 and based in Emeryville, California, Metagenomi utilizes metagenomics and machine learning to uncover novel genome editing technologies derived from previously uncharacterized organisms. The company's innovative discovery platform enables the creation of highly efficient and specific gene editing tools, including programmable nucleases, base editors, and advanced integration systems such as prime editing and CRISPR-associated transposases. By harnessing these naturally evolved systems, Metagenomi seeks to address a wide range of genetic mutations that traditional genome engineering approaches have struggled to target, with the ultimate goal of providing transformative therapies for patients globally.
NuCicer
Seed Round in 2022
NuCicer is focused on transforming chickpeas from a niche ingredient into a staple superfood by developing new varieties with enhanced agronomic and quality traits. The company specializes in producing chickpeas that feature increased protein content, improved flavor, and tailored nutritional properties. Utilizing a diverse chickpea breeding library alongside a proprietary breeding innovation platform that integrates plant genetics and machine learning, NuCicer aims to address the growing demands for nutritious and sustainable food sources. Their efforts not only enhance the nutritional value of chickpeas but also aim to reduce the environmental impact of agriculture, supporting the needs of the alternative-meat sector and promoting a more sustainable food system.
ReCode Therapeutics
Series B in 2022
ReCode Therapeutics 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 employs a unique non-viral lipid nanoparticle platform that facilitates the precise delivery of nucleic acid and protein payloads to specific organs and tissues, enhancing the effectiveness of genetic therapies. This selective organ targeting (SORT) technology allows for the administration of corrective or disease-modifying treatments beyond the liver, addressing the challenges faced by traditional gene therapy methods. By harnessing these innovative techniques, ReCode Therapeutics aims to provide new therapeutic options for patients suffering from rare and life-limiting respiratory diseases.
Senti Bio
Post in 2022
Senti Biosciences is a clinical-stage biotechnology company specializing in synthetic biology and gene circuit engineering for therapeutic purposes. The company employs its Gene Circuits platform to develop innovative therapies that enhance precision in targeting cancer cells while avoiding damage to healthy cells. Senti Bio's approach involves the use of allogeneic chimeric antigen receptor natural killer (CAR-NK) cells that incorporate its gene circuit technologies, aimed at addressing various oncology indications. Among its product candidates are SENTI-202, a Logic Gated off-the-shelf CAR-NK cell therapy designed to selectively eliminate cancer cells without harming healthy bone marrow, and SENTI-301A, which targets hepatocellular carcinoma. Senti Biosciences aims to provide effective treatment options for difficult-to-treat diseases through advanced cell and gene therapies.
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 key protein-protein interactions. The company's structure-guided drug discovery platform includes target prediction and validation, hit identification through virtual and fragment library screening, and lead optimization. Gandeeva has established a strong preclinical oncology pipeline aimed at addressing challenging cancers with unique protein interaction modulators, including interfacial glues and allosteric inhibitors. Headquartered in the Greater Vancouver area, Canada, Gandeeva is dedicated to enhancing the drug discovery process and reducing the risk of late-stage clinical failures.
Metagenomi
Series B in 2022
Metagenomi, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing gene editing systems aimed at treating genetic diseases. Founded in 2016 and based in Emeryville, California, Metagenomi utilizes metagenomics and machine learning to uncover novel genome editing technologies derived from previously uncharacterized organisms. The company's innovative discovery platform enables the creation of highly efficient and specific gene editing tools, including programmable nucleases, base editors, and advanced integration systems such as prime editing and CRISPR-associated transposases. By harnessing these naturally evolved systems, Metagenomi seeks to address a wide range of genetic mutations that traditional genome engineering approaches have struggled to target, with the ultimate goal of providing transformative therapies for patients globally.
GRO Biosciences
Series A in 2021
GRO Biosciences is focused on developing advanced protein therapeutics by utilizing innovative technologies in computational protein design and synthetic biology. The company has created several genomically recoded strains of bacteria that enable the incorporation of non-standard amino acids into proteins. This approach enhances the potency, stability, and targeted delivery of these therapeutics. GRO Biosciences aims to apply its technology to improve treatments for a range of conditions, including diabetes, growth disorders, and autoimmunity, thereby addressing significant unmet medical needs.
Edifice Health
Venture Round in 2021
Edifice Health is a spin-out company from a 10-year research study on immune profiling from Stanford University, the Stanford 1,000 Immunomes Project. The technology is the first biomarker composite scoring system to measure immune health and the Inflammatory AgeĀ® of an individual which predicts the onset of multiple chronic diseases and provides comprehensive health insights designed to help people change the course of their aging process.
Century Therapeutics
Series C in 2021
Century Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on developing advanced cell therapies using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to treat various cancers, including hematologic and solid tumors. Founded in 2018 and based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the company utilizes a unique allogeneic iPSC-derived cell therapy platform that integrates gene editing, protein engineering, and robust manufacturing capabilities. This innovative approach allows for the generation of modified immune effector cells, such as natural killer (NK) and T cells, designed to meet significant unmet medical needs. By employing techniques like CRISPR-mediated gene editing and proprietary chimeric antigen receptors, Century Therapeutics aims to enhance cell product performance and minimize rejection by the host immune system, thereby improving the efficacy of cancer treatments.
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, established in 2016. The company focuses on developing nutritional forage crops through innovative biotechnological processes, particularly gene editing. Its mission is to address the increasing global demand for high-protein foods by enhancing the nutritional density of crops such as soybeans, wheat, and rice. By improving the protein content of these food and feed crops, Amfora aims to contribute to a more sustainable food system, reducing both costs and the environmental impact associated with food production.
Pairwise Plants
Series B in 2021
Pairwise Plants is an agricultural gene editing company based in San Diego, California, focused on enhancing crops such as corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, and canola. Founded in 2017 by a team of experts in food technology and genetics, Pairwise aims to improve the quality and nutritional value of fruits and vegetables, including leafy greens, berries, and stone fruits. The company collaborates with food and agriculture organizations to provide innovative solutions for both row and specialty crops. Pairwise holds licenses for advanced gene editing technologies from prestigious institutions, enabling the development of new crop varieties. With a commitment to building a healthier world through better food, Pairwise anticipates launching its first products in the coming years.
Metagenomi
Series A in 2020
Metagenomi, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing gene editing systems aimed at treating genetic diseases. Founded in 2016 and based in Emeryville, California, Metagenomi utilizes metagenomics and machine learning to uncover novel genome editing technologies derived from previously uncharacterized organisms. The company's innovative discovery platform enables the creation of highly efficient and specific gene editing tools, including programmable nucleases, base editors, and advanced integration systems such as prime editing and CRISPR-associated transposases. By harnessing these naturally evolved systems, Metagenomi seeks to address a wide range of genetic mutations that traditional genome engineering approaches have struggled to target, with the ultimate goal of providing transformative therapies for patients globally.
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.
AgBiome
Series C in 2018
AgBiome, LLC is a biotechnology company based in Durham, North Carolina, that focuses on developing biological products to address significant challenges in agriculture, particularly soil-borne diseases affecting greenhouse and major row crops. Utilizing advanced genomics and screening technologies, AgBiome identifies plant-associated microbes that can enhance plant health, improve pest resistance, and increase crop yields. The company operates a state-of-the-art laboratory and greenhouse facility and collaborates with prominent agricultural firms to expedite its research and product development. AgBiome's offerings include fungicides that protect crops from various diseases and a platform for capturing and screening diverse microbes for agricultural applications. Established in 2012, AgBiome aims to provide sustainable solutions that support global food production and address critical agricultural issues such as insect and nematode control.
Pairwise Plants
Series A in 2018
Pairwise Plants is an agricultural gene editing company based in San Diego, California, focused on enhancing crops such as corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, and canola. Founded in 2017 by a team of experts in food technology and genetics, Pairwise aims to improve the quality and nutritional value of fruits and vegetables, including leafy greens, berries, and stone fruits. The company collaborates with food and agriculture organizations to provide innovative solutions for both row and specialty crops. Pairwise holds licenses for advanced gene editing technologies from prestigious institutions, enabling the development of new crop varieties. With a commitment to building a healthier world through better food, Pairwise anticipates launching its first products in the coming years.
AgBiome
Series B in 2015
AgBiome, LLC is a biotechnology company based in Durham, North Carolina, that focuses on developing biological products to address significant challenges in agriculture, particularly soil-borne diseases affecting greenhouse and major row crops. Utilizing advanced genomics and screening technologies, AgBiome identifies plant-associated microbes that can enhance plant health, improve pest resistance, and increase crop yields. The company operates a state-of-the-art laboratory and greenhouse facility and collaborates with prominent agricultural firms to expedite its research and product development. AgBiome's offerings include fungicides that protect crops from various diseases and a platform for capturing and screening diverse microbes for agricultural applications. Established in 2012, AgBiome aims to provide sustainable solutions that support global food production and address critical agricultural issues such as insect and nematode control.
AgBiome
Venture Round in 2014
AgBiome, LLC is a biotechnology company based in Durham, North Carolina, that focuses on developing biological products to address significant challenges in agriculture, particularly soil-borne diseases affecting greenhouse and major row crops. Utilizing advanced genomics and screening technologies, AgBiome identifies plant-associated microbes that can enhance plant health, improve pest resistance, and increase crop yields. The company operates a state-of-the-art laboratory and greenhouse facility and collaborates with prominent agricultural firms to expedite its research and product development. AgBiome's offerings include fungicides that protect crops from various diseases and a platform for capturing and screening diverse microbes for agricultural applications. Established in 2012, AgBiome aims to provide sustainable solutions that support global food production and address critical agricultural issues such as insect and nematode control.
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