Merck

Modifi Bio develops oncology therapeutics based on direct DNA modification. The company pursues a platform that modifies tumor DNA to render cancer cells irreparable while preserving healthy cells, aiming to disrupt conventional oncology drug development.

Eyebiotech is a vision treatment company that develops products to preserve, repair, and improve eyesight. The firm guards against sight-threatening eye disorders and developed the first anti-vascular endothelial growth factor medication for patients with age-related macular degeneration, allowing those with eye ailments to regain their eyesight.

Abceutics, headquartered in Buffalo, New York, is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing innovative therapies for unmet medical needs.

Harpoon Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage immunotherapy company based in South San Francisco, California, focused on developing a novel class of T cell engagers to harness the body's immune system for treating cancer and other diseases. The company utilizes its proprietary TriTAC (Tri-specific T cell Activating Construct) platform to create engineered proteins that direct T cells to target and kill cells expressing specific antigens. Harpoon's lead product candidate, HPN424, is currently undergoing Phase I clinical trials for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. Additionally, the company is advancing other candidates, including HPN536, which is in Phase I/IIa trials for ovarian cancer and MSLN-expressing tumors, as well as HPN217 for multiple myeloma and HPN328 for small cell lung cancer. Harpoon Therapeutics was founded in 2015 and is committed to addressing unmet medical needs in oncology through innovative therapies.

Caraway Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, that focuses on developing innovative treatments for neurodegenerative diseases by modulating mitophagy and autophagy. The company aims to address the degradation of toxic cellular components, which is a key factor in various neurodegenerative conditions, including Parkinson's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. By leveraging an understanding of critical neural pathways, Caraway Therapeutics seeks to discover and develop novel small molecules that can restore cellular balance and improve lysosomal function. Founded in 2018 and initially known as Rheostat Therapeutics, Inc., the company rebranded in 2019 to reflect its commitment to finding effective therapies for patients affected by these debilitating diseases.

Prometheus Biosciences, established in 1995 and headquartered in San Diego, California, specializes in developing and commercializing innovative pharmaceutical and diagnostic products. The company's portfolio includes tests that enable physicians to provide personalized patient care, such as monitoring drug and anti-drug antibody levels, diagnosing and prognosticating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and detecting celiac disease and lactose intolerance. Prometheus also offers therapeutic products like Entocort EC for treating Crohn's disease and has agreements to develop and market other drugs. The company's commitment to innovation positions it as a leader in precision healthcare, particularly in gastroenterology.

Imago BioSciences, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Redwood City, California, founded in 2012. The company specializes in developing novel small molecule therapeutics aimed at treating hematologic diseases, including myelodysplastic syndromes, acute myelogenous leukemia, and other conditions associated with bone marrow failure. Central to its research is the enzyme lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1), which is involved in the regulation of blood cell production. Imago BioSciences is focused on translating advanced scientific insights into transformative therapies that can alter the course of disease, thereby enhancing the quality and longevity of life for patients. Its lead product candidate, Bomedemstat, is an orally administered LSD1 inhibitor currently under evaluation for its potential to modify disease progression in patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms, a group of chronic bone marrow cancers.

Acceleron Pharma is a biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, founded in 2003. It specializes in discovering, developing, and commercializing therapeutics to treat serious and rare diseases. Acceleron's portfolio includes luspatercept-aamt, marketed as REBLOZYL for treating anemia in adult patients with beta-thalassemia, and also under investigation for myelodysplastic syndromes and myelofibrosis. Additionally, the company is developing Sotatercept for pulmonary arterial hypertension and ACE-083 for Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. Acceleron's research focuses on growth and differentiation factors that regulate cellular proliferation, differentiation, and survival in various tissue types. The company collaborates with other organizations to advance its therapeutic candidates.

Pandion Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Watertown, Massachusetts, focused on developing innovative therapeutics for patients with autoimmune diseases. The company’s lead product candidate, PT101, is an engineered interleukin-2 variant currently undergoing Phase 1a clinical trials for various autoimmune and inflammatory conditions, including moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis and systemic lupus erythematosus. In addition to PT101, Pandion's pipeline includes PT627, a systemic PD-1 agonist in preclinical studies, and two bifunctional molecules, PT001 and PT002, designed to provide tissue-selective immunomodulation by targeting specific adhesion molecules in the gastrointestinal tract. Pandion employs a network-based approach to immune system conceptualization through its TALON drug design platform and collaborates with Astellas Pharma to develop locally acting immunomodulators for pancreatic autoimmune diseases. The company aims to create a new generation of therapeutics that offer enhanced efficacy and safety for the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.

OncoImmune is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing treatments for cancer and autoimmune diseases. Its pipeline includes CD24Fc, a fusion protein for preventing acute graft-versus-host disease, and ONC-392, a monoclonal antibody designed to reduce immune-related toxicities.

VelosBio, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Diego, California, focused on developing innovative antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) to treat various hematological cancers and solid tumors. Established in 2017, the company specializes in therapies that target receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1), a protein present on many cancerous cells but absent in normal tissues, making it a promising target for cancer treatment. VelosBio's lead product, VLS-101, is an ROR1-directed ADC designed for patients with both hematologic and solid tumor malignancies. The company's approach aims to provide novel targeted therapies that can be utilized as monotherapy or in combination with other treatments across a wide array of cancer types.

Themis Bioscience N.V. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Vienna, Austria, specializing in immunomodulation to develop products aimed at protecting against infectious diseases. Founded in 2009, the company’s lead product candidate, MV-CHIK, has completed Phase II clinical trials for chikungunya treatment. Themis is also engaged in developing vaccines for various health threats, including cancer, Zika virus, Lassa fever, and MERS. Themis leverages its advanced understanding of immune system mechanisms through its innovative vaccine platform, focusing on both emerging and specialized indications. The company has established research collaborations and exclusive licensing agreements to enhance its development capabilities, positioning itself as a strategic partner for leading biotechnology and pharmaceutical firms.

ArQule, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the research and development of targeted therapeutics for cancer and rare diseases. Founded in 1993 and headquartered in Burlington, Massachusetts, the company employs its ArQule Kinase Inhibitor Platform to design and develop novel small molecule drugs. ArQule's pipeline includes several investigational therapies, such as ARQ 531, a dual inhibitor of Bruton’s tyrosine kinase for B-cell malignancies; miransertib, an AKT inhibitor for advanced endometrial cancer; and ARQ 75, also targeting AKT in solid tumors. Additionally, Derazantinib is a multi-kinase inhibitor in clinical trials for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. The company has established license agreements with Basilea Pharmaceutica and Roivant Sciences for its therapeutic candidates. As of January 2020, ArQule operates as a subsidiary of Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp.

Calporta is developing selective small molecule agonists of TRPML1 (transient receptor potential cation channel, mucolipin subfamily, member 1) for the treatment of Niemann-Pick C Disease (NPC) and other lysosomal storage diseases. Mutations that cause NPC lead to impaired intracellular lipid trafficking and lead to lysosomal accumulation of cholesterol and biolipds. TRPML1 is an ion channel in the lysosome and a key regulator of lysosomal trafficking processes. Impaired TRPML1 function has been implicated in multiple pathological conditions, including NPC. Agonists of TRPML1 restore calcium efflux and normalize lysosomal trafficking and function. In addition to NPC and other lysosomal storage diseases, agonists of TRPML1 may have broad potential in other diseases such as muscular dystrophy and various taopathies such as Alzheimer's disease. Calporta's approach is based on research from the lab of Haoxing Xu, Ph.D., at the University of Michigan.

Tilos Therapeutics, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative antibody therapeutics aimed at treating cancer, fibrosis, and related disorders. Founded in 2016 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company specializes in antibodies that target the Latency Associated Peptide of TGF beta, which plays a crucial role in regulating immune responses. Tilos Therapeutics is particularly focused on the modulation of regulatory T cells and effector cell regulation, leveraging the immune system to create effective therapies. By enhancing treatment options, Tilos aims to enable patients to begin their therapies more swiftly, ultimately leading to improved medical outcomes. As of mid-2019, Tilos operates as a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc.

Peloton Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company based in Dallas, Texas, dedicated to developing innovative medicines for patients with cancer and other serious conditions. The company focuses on targeting HIF-2a, a transcription factor previously considered difficult to address with small molecules. Its lead drug candidate, PT2977, is an oral HIF-2a inhibitor currently undergoing Phase 2 clinical trials for advanced or metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma, and it is being evaluated in various settings, including in patients with von Hippel-Lindau disease-associated renal cell carcinoma and in combination with cabozantinib. Additionally, Peloton is advancing PT2567, another oral HIF-2a inhibitor in preclinical development for non-oncology indications such as pulmonary arterial hypertension. Founded in 2010 and previously known as Damascus Pharmaceutics, Peloton Therapeutics aims to leverage its scientific expertise and collaborations to become a leading biotech company in the region.

ConnectedMed builds digital therapeutics platform that allows patients to manage their primary and chronic care needs.

Immune Design Corp., a clinical-stage immunotherapy company based in Seattle, Washington, focuses on enabling the body's immune system to combat diseases, with a primary emphasis on cancer treatment. The company leverages its ZVex and GLAAS discovery platforms to develop innovative therapies. Its lead product candidate is G100, currently in Phase II clinical trials for treating follicular non-Hodgkin lymphoma, both as a monotherapy and in combination therapy. Immune Design has collaboration and license agreements with Sanofi Pasteur. The company was founded in 2008 and operates under the umbrella of Merck & Co., Inc.

Antelliq is a leading provider of animal intelligence solutions, specializing in the design, manufacture, and distribution of products aimed at improving the management, health, and well-being of livestock, pets, and fish. The company offers a range of digital identification, traceability, and monitoring solutions that serve veterinarians, farmers, and pet owners worldwide. Operating under well-known brands such as Allflex, Sure Petcare, and Biomark, Antelliq delivers smart devices and data analytics that enhance understanding of animal activity and health needs. With over 1,900 employees and a presence in more than 100 countries, Antelliq supports various sectors, including agriculture and conservation, through innovative technologies developed at its four global Innovation Centers. These centers focus on areas such as multi-disciplinary monitoring, electronic identification, and connected devices, leveraging decades of research and development to create cutting-edge solutions for animal care. Founded in 2013 and based in Vitré, France, Antelliq became a subsidiary of Merck Animal Health in April 2019.

Viralytics Limited is a biotechnology company based in Sydney, Australia, specializing in the development and commercialization of oncolytic immunotherapies for cancer treatment. The company’s lead product, CAVATAK, is a proprietary formulation of a common cold virus that is currently undergoing Phase Ib and Phase II clinical trials for various cancers, including melanoma, lung, and bladder cancer. In addition to CAVATAK, Viralytics is developing EVATAK, aimed at treating ovarian, prostate, and gastric cancers. The company leverages the cancer-targeting properties of benign viruses to enhance the efficacy of cancer therapies while minimizing side effects. Formerly known as Psiron Ltd., Viralytics rebranded in December 2006 and has operations in Newcastle, Australia. As of June 2018, Viralytics is a subsidiary of Merck & Co. Inc.

Rigontec GmbH is a biopharmaceutical company based in Planegg, Germany, focused on developing RNA-based immunotherapeutics for cancer and viral diseases. Founded in 2014, the company is recognized for its innovative approach to immuno-oncology, particularly through its lead compound ImOl100. This compound acts as a stimulator of the immune receptor retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I), which detects viral RNA and promotes immune responses. ImOl100 serves as a minimal mimic of naturally occurring 3pRNA, a motif commonly found in viral RNAs, and aims to overcome the limitations associated with traditional cancer vaccines and checkpoint inhibitors. As of October 2017, Rigontec operates as a subsidiary of Merck & Co., enhancing its capabilities in the development of effective therapeutic options for patients.

StayWell Company is a health engagement firm that specializes in patient education and population health management services. It serves a diverse range of clients, including businesses, government entities, and healthcare associations. By leveraging extensive experience in the healthcare sector, StayWell designs customizable solutions that facilitate health engagement and foster behavior change. The company offers a comprehensive portfolio of services that includes health information dissemination, educational programs, and marketing engagement strategies. StayWell's approach is data-driven, ensuring that each phase of program development—from design to implementation and performance evaluation—reflects measurable outcomes. As a result, clients benefit from reduced health costs, increased participation rates, enhanced patient acquisition, improved health outcomes, and high levels of program satisfaction.

Afferent Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Mateo, California, focused on developing innovative medicines for chronic pain management and neurogenic disorders. The company specializes in targeting P2X3 receptors found in nerve fibers, creating small molecule compounds designed to address conditions such as osteoarthritis, back pain, visceral pain, and neuropathy. Afferent's lead compound, AF-219, has successfully completed two Phase 1 clinical studies, positioning the company to advance its portfolio of therapeutics aimed at improving the quality of life for patients suffering from various pain-related ailments. Founded in 2009, Afferent Pharmaceuticals is dedicated to advancing the understanding and treatment of chronic pain through scientific innovation.

IOmet Pharma Ltd. is a pharmaceutical company based in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, with an additional office in London. Founded in 2008, the company focuses on discovering and developing innovative medicines for cancer treatment, particularly in the areas of cancer immunotherapy and cancer metabolism. Its research includes the development of IDO, TDO, and dual-acting IDO/TDO inhibitors, along with GLUT1 inhibitors. IOmet Pharma operates in the preclinical stage of drug discovery, aiming to advance its therapeutic candidates for the benefit of patients with cancer. As of January 2016, the company functions as a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc.

cCAM Biotherapeutics Ltd. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Misgav, Israel, focused on the discovery and development of innovative immunotherapies for cancer treatment. The company is developing CM-10, an immunomodulatory antibody designed to enhance the immune system's ability to target and attack tumors by binding to CEACAM1, a protein that cancer cells exploit to evade immune responses. cCAM's lead therapeutic candidate, CM-24, is a humanized anti-CEACAM1 monoclonal antibody aimed at treating advanced and recurrent cancers, including melanoma, non-small-cell lung cancer, bladder, gastric, colorectal, and ovarian cancers. Established in 2010, cCAM Biotherapeutics aims to provide effective treatment options for patients facing various malignancies.

Oncoethix SA is a private Swiss company that was founded in 2007 by Esteban Cvitkovic, MD, Kay Noel, PhD, Yves Paternot, and Patrice Herait, MD (all former associates at Cvitkovic & Associes Consultants SA) to develop a portfolio of 3 to 5 promising new drugs for cancer treatment. The company intends to develop its compounds through clinical proof of concept and the identification of an expedited registration strategy, after which pharmaceutical partners will be sought to fund pivotal trials and handle commercialization. Oncoethix founders have an unsurpassed track record in identifying and bringing oncology leads to global markets. Dr. Cvitkovic, Chief Scientific Officer for Oncoethix, led the clinical development of single agent and combination regimens for cisplatin, vindesine, bleomycin, navelbine, and, more recently, irinotecan, oxaliplatin, docetaxel, and trabectedin, first as an academic investigator and then through a specialized oncology clinical research organization. Prior to founding Oncoethix and assuming responsibilities as Chief Operating Officer, Dr. Noel had co-founded another oncology drug development company which in-licensed oxaliplatin as its first portfolio product and subsequently identified, evaluated, and in-licensed novel agents for several clients. Additionally, Dr. Noel has developed expedited registration strategies for many cancer drugs and registration files for a few of these. Dr. Herait managed clinical development of irinotecan, from Phase 1 through Phase 3, while at Rhone Poulenc Rorer and subsequently, as a consultant, managed clinical studies for several novel cancer drugs. Since its founding, Oncoethix has in-licensed three promising cancer drug candidates, each a first-in-class agent to a novel target or with a novel mode of action. Currently, two portfolio compounds are in clinical development. Oncoethix was launched with an initial financing of 1.30 million Swiss francs from the founders to finance portfolio development. In December 2009, the company closed a Series A financing of 3.7 million Swiss francs with leading venture capital firms Index Ventures and Endeavour Vision.

Founded in 1992, Cubist Pharmaceuticals is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing and commercializing pharmaceutical products that address unmet medical needs in acute care settings. Its primary product is CUBICIN, the first antibiotic in its class, used for treating serious infections. The company's pipeline includes drugs targeting Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea, multi-drug resistant Gram-negative infections, and respiratory syncytial virus infections.

Preventice Solutions, Inc., established in 2007, specializes in healthcare technology solutions. The company offers a range of services, sensors, and software to remotely monitor and manage patient health data, primarily focusing on cardiac care. Key products include the PatientCare Portal, a self-managed cloud platform for real-time patient data management; BodyGuardian Heart, a pocket-sized wearable monitor for enhanced patient mobility and compliance; and BodyGuardian Verité, a dual-modality remote cardiac sensor for physicians. Preventice Solutions operates from Eagan, Minnesota, with additional offices in Fargo, North Dakota, San Francisco, California, and Houston, Texas.

Peer+ is a developer and producer of innovative liquid crystal windows, specializing in smart energy glass for use in windows and doors. The company has created a unique type of glass that can generate its own electricity and can be controlled remotely, allowing users to switch between three modes: dark, privacy, and bright. This technology not only enhances energy efficiency but also provides customizable aesthetic options, as the glass can be delivered in various colors. Peer+ focuses on integrating advanced energy solutions with practical applications in building design, contributing to a more sustainable future.

Idenix Pharmaceuticals is a biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing drugs for the treatment of viral diseases, primarily targeting hepatitis C virus (HCV). With operations in the United States and Europe, the company's research efforts have led to significant advancements in HCV treatment, including the completion of a proof-of-concept clinical trial in treatment-naive HCV genotype I infected patients. Idenix has also initiated a phase IIa clinical trial to evaluate its lead drug candidate, IDX184, in combination with existing therapies. In addition to HCV, Idenix is developing products and candidates aimed at treating hepatitis B virus (HBV), human immunodeficiency virus type I (HIV), and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Inspire Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company focused on researching, developing and commercializing prescription pharmaceutical products for ophthalmic and pulmonary diseases. The advanced compounds in the clinical pipeline are denufosol tetrasodium for cystic fibrosis and Prolacria for dry eye, both of which are in Phase III development, and AzaSite for blepharitis, which is in Phase II development.

SmartCells, Inc. designs and develops insulin products. It offers SmartInsulin, a self regulating injectable formulation for treating diabetes. The company's polymer-based dosing technology is used for various applications, such as fertility, thyroid, and growth hormone deficiencies; treatments with poor compliance or therapeutic window issues, such as oncology; and drug-device combinations. SmartCells, Inc. was founded in 2003 and is based in Beverly, Massachusetts.

Frosst Iberica S.A. manufactures pharmaceutical products.

Schering-Plough Corporation is a prominent U.S.-based pharmaceutical manufacturer headquartered in Kenilworth, New Jersey. Founded in 1851 in Germany, the company operates across three primary segments: Prescription Pharmaceuticals, Animal Health, and Consumer Health Care. Schering-Plough focuses on the discovery, development, and marketing of a diverse range of pharmaceutical products, addressing conditions related to allergies, cancer, hepatitis, cardiovascular health, and the central and respiratory nervous systems. Notable products include the allergy medications Claritin and Clarinex, the anti-cholesterol drug Vytorin, and the brain tumor treatment Temodar. Additionally, the company encompasses well-known consumer brands such as Dr. Scholl's foot care and Coppertone skin care. Schering-Plough has been actively involved in the pharmaceutical industry and is recognized for its contributions to both human and animal health.

NovaCardia is a pharmaceutical company specializing in the development of innovative treatments for cardiovascular diseases. With a strong focus on acute cardiac care, the company is dedicated to enhancing patient outcomes through the creation and commercialization of novel small molecule drugs. Among its key projects is an oral formulation of KW-3902, aimed at treating chronic congestive heart failure. NovaCardia leverages its extensive expertise in cardiovascular drug development to address critical needs in this therapeutic area.

Abmaxis, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company specializing in the discovery, optimization, and development of monoclonal antibody (MAb) products for human therapeutics and diagnostics. It operates in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and life science industries, providing drug discovery services to clients and collaborating with global biotech and pharmaceutical partners to build internal product pipelines.

Sirna Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on developing therapies based on RNA interference (RNAi), a groundbreaking scientific discovery with the potential to transform disease treatment. By harnessing the capabilities of RNAi, Sirna Therapeutics aims to create innovative solutions that address various illnesses, positioning itself at the forefront of this emerging field. The company's commitment to advancing RNAi-based therapies highlights its role in the evolving landscape of medical treatment, with the goal of improving patient outcomes through targeted interventions.

GlycoFi is a biotech company focused on developing biotherapeutics utilizing glycan optimization technology. Founded in 2000 and based in Lebanon, New Hampshire, the firm specializes in a proprietary protein manufacturing process that employs engineered yeast strains to achieve precise human glycosylation. This innovative approach enables the creation of therapeutic proteins, which are essential for drug development. GlycoFi aims to build its own pipeline of products while also collaborating with other pharmaceutical companies to enhance their drug offerings. In 2006, GlycoFi became a subsidiary of Merck & Co. Inc., further expanding its capabilities in the biotherapeutics field.

Medco Containment Services Inc., one of the largest mail-order pharmacy and managed-care drug companies.