Novartis Venture Funds is an investment firm focused on advancing innovative therapeutics and platforms, while also exploring opportunities in medical devices, diagnostics, and drug delivery systems. The firm aims to address unmet medical needs and emphasizes clinical impact, proprietary scientific advancements, and a deep understanding of mechanisms involved in healthcare solutions. They prioritize early-stage investments, allowing them to support companies from inception and follow up with additional funding as the companies grow. Novartis Venture Funds typically plans for total investments ranging from USD 30 to 50 million per company over its lifespan, starting with initial amounts as low as USD 100,000. The firm is committed to increasing its involvement in leading or co-leading investment deals and is open to participating in larger syndicates to further enhance their portfolio.
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.
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.
Capstan Therapeutics
Series B in 2024
Capstan Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on enhancing the therapeutic potential of in vivo RNA-based therapies. It develops proprietary targeted delivery systems, including targeted lipid nanoparticles, to improve the efficacy and control of dosage in engineered cell therapies. This innovative platform aims to address a variety of diseases, particularly in the fields of oncology, fibrosis, and inflammation, where there are significant unmet clinical needs. By advancing precision in vivo cell engineering, Capstan Therapeutics seeks to create transformative therapeutics that can offer new solutions for patients facing these challenging conditions.
Enterprise Therapeutics
Series B in 2024
Enterprise Therapeutics Ltd. is a drug discovery company based in Brighton, United Kingdom, founded in 2014. It focuses on the research and development of innovative therapies for respiratory diseases, specifically targeting chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, and asthma. The company aims to create disease-modifying therapies that address the underlying mechanisms of mucus congestion in the lungs, which can lead to breathing difficulties and increased susceptibility to lung infections. By developing these novel treatments, Enterprise Therapeutics seeks to enhance the quality of life for patients suffering from these chronic respiratory conditions.
Aravax
Series B in 2024
Aravax is an early-stage biotechnology company based in Melbourne, Australia, dedicated to developing a safe and effective treatment for peanut allergies. Founded in May 2015 through the acquisition of intellectual property from Alfred Health and Monash University, Aravax employs proprietary technology aimed at resetting the immune system to tolerate peanuts without triggering allergic reactions. The company's innovative approach seeks to eliminate the risk of life-threatening responses to peanuts, allowing patients to undergo treatment and potentially overcome mild symptoms such as itchiness, rash, and gastrointestinal upset.
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.
Tagworks Pharmaceuticals
Series A in 2023
Tagworks Pharmaceuticals is a privately held biotech company based in the Netherlands. Tagworks develops In vivo chemistry to improve the efficacy of cancer therapies and to enable novel approaches in companion diagnostics. The company’s facilities are located at the Radboud University Medical Center in Nijmegen. Founded in 2011, Tagworks is a spin-out of Philips Healthcare, and originates from Philips’ molecular imaging expertise.
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.
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.
Capstan Therapeutics
Series A in 2022
Capstan Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on enhancing the therapeutic potential of in vivo RNA-based therapies. It develops proprietary targeted delivery systems, including targeted lipid nanoparticles, to improve the efficacy and control of dosage in engineered cell therapies. This innovative platform aims to address a variety of diseases, particularly in the fields of oncology, fibrosis, and inflammation, where there are significant unmet clinical needs. By advancing precision in vivo cell engineering, Capstan Therapeutics seeks to create transformative therapeutics that can offer new solutions for patients facing these challenging conditions.
Splice Bio
Series A in 2022
Splice Bio is a biotechnology company based in Barcelona, Spain, focused on developing innovative gene therapies using its proprietary intein platform technology. Founded in 2012 and originally named Proteodesign, S.L., the company aims to address the needs of patients suffering from incurable genetic diseases. The intein platform, developed from research in the Muir Lab at Princeton University, seeks to overcome two significant limitations of traditional adeno-associated virus (AAV) therapies: it enhances the capacity for larger gene delivery and broadens the range of tissues that can be targeted for treatment.
ImmPACT Bio
Series B in 2022
ImmPACT Bio USA Inc. is a cell therapy company focused on developing engineered T-cells specifically designed to target and treat solid tumors. By utilizing advanced technology, the company aims to create chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies that exhibit tumor specificity, allowing them to induce cytotoxicity only when interacting with tumor cells while sparing healthy tissues. This selective targeting mitigates the safety risks commonly associated with existing CAR-T therapies, providing a promising approach to cancer treatment that enhances efficacy and reduces potential harm to noncancerous cells.
Anaveon
Series B in 2021
Anaveon are developing IL-2 complexes which selectively promote effector T cell functions. Our compounds act as effective immune adjuvants with a broad therapeutic window and marked preclinical efficacy against cancer either as monotherapy or in combination with other therapies.
LOQUS23 THERAPEUTICS
Seed Round in 2021
LoQus23 is a DDF-formed company focussing on targeting DNA damage repair pathways to treat Huntington’s disease and other triplet repeat diseases.
Kedalion Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Kedalion Therapeutics Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Menlo Park, California, specializing in the development and commercialization of innovative topical ophthalmic therapies. Founded in 2015, the company utilizes its proprietary AcuStream platform technology to deliver topical drugs to the eye with high precision and accuracy. This novel, digitally connected, electromechanical delivery device significantly reduces the required dosage by up to 80% compared to traditional eye drops, while enhancing patient comfort and minimizing side effects. Kedalion's approach aims to meet the unmet needs of patients by providing a user-friendly device that improves the administration of ocular therapies, thereby benefiting both healthcare professionals and patients through increased efficiency and comfort.
Capstan Therapeutics
Seed Round in 2021
Capstan Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on enhancing the therapeutic potential of in vivo RNA-based therapies. It develops proprietary targeted delivery systems, including targeted lipid nanoparticles, to improve the efficacy and control of dosage in engineered cell therapies. This innovative platform aims to address a variety of diseases, particularly in the fields of oncology, fibrosis, and inflammation, where there are significant unmet clinical needs. By advancing precision in vivo cell engineering, Capstan Therapeutics seeks to create transformative therapeutics that can offer new solutions for patients facing these challenging conditions.
Exo Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Exo Therapeutics, Inc. is a drug discovery and development company focused on addressing intractable pharmaceutical targets. Founded in 2018 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company utilizes its proprietary ExoSight platform to develop a pipeline of drug candidates. These candidates are designed to bind to exosites and unique binding pockets, allowing for the reprogramming of enzyme activity to achieve targeted therapeutic effects. This innovative approach aims to provide robust treatments in areas such as oncology and inflammation, while also minimizing potential side effects for patients. By employing a precise and selective methodology, Exo Therapeutics is positioned to unlock new therapeutic possibilities for a variety of diseases.
Expansion Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Expansion Therapeutics is a drug discovery and development company focused on creating small molecule medicines for RNA-mediated diseases. The company specializes in developing novel RNA-targeted drug candidates that have the potential to treat a wide range of severe health conditions. By leveraging its innovative technology, Expansion Therapeutics aims to provide effective treatment options for patients suffering from these challenging diseases.
Immunitas Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Immunitas is unlocking human immunology using novel single cell analyses to develop targeted therapeutics for patients with challenging, complex cancers. Translating findings from laboratory research to meaningful clinical advances in humans is a longstanding challenge in the oncology field. Immunitas was founded to directly address this problem and unlock a variety of novel drug targets based on discovery rooted in human biology. They are pursuing this goal with a team of pioneers in these areas across their scientific founders, management, and investors. At Immunitas, they employ a single cell sequencing platform to dissect the biology of immune cells in human tumors. Their focus on human samples allows us to start with and stay closer to the most relevant and translatable biology for patients and accelerates the pace of their research. They are identifying novel, exciting oncology targets and, importantly, developing key biomarkers to guide the selection of patients who may benefit from their new drugs. They are leveraging expertise in antibody discovery and engineering to create powerful therapies that modulate these targets, and are currently advancing a number of programs toward early human studies.
GentiBio
Series A in 2021
GentiBio, Inc. is a biotherapeutics company focused on developing engineered regulatory T cells (EngTregs) aimed at treating autoimmune, alloimmune, autoinflammatory, and allergic diseases. Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, with additional locations in Israel and Seattle, GentiBio utilizes a proprietary platform that combines autologous and allogeneic EngTregs technologies. This innovative approach is designed to restore immune tolerance and address limitations present in current regulatory T-cell therapies. By targeting the underlying causes of diseases related to immune system dysfunction, GentiBio aims to provide effective therapeutic solutions for conditions that arise from immune system overshooting or malfunctioning. The company was co-founded by experts in Treg biology and synthetic immunology, positioning it at the forefront of this emerging field.
Artios Pharma
Series C in 2021
Artios Pharma Limited is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, United Kingdom, that specializes in developing innovative cancer treatments targeting DNA damage response (DDR) pathways. Founded in 2015, the company is dedicated to creating first-in-class therapies aimed at selectively killing cancer cells. Artios's product pipeline features several promising programs, including a focus on DNA polymerase theta (Polθ), which plays a crucial role in DNA repair processes. Additionally, the company is advancing an in-licensed program that targets a newly identified protein linked to DDR and is developing a novel treatment aimed at DNA nucleases involved in these pathways. Artios collaborates with Cancer Research Technology and prominent DNA repair researchers globally to enhance its research and development efforts.
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.
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.
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.
Exo Therapeutics
Series A in 2020
Exo Therapeutics, Inc. is a drug discovery and development company focused on addressing intractable pharmaceutical targets. Founded in 2018 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company utilizes its proprietary ExoSight platform to develop a pipeline of drug candidates. These candidates are designed to bind to exosites and unique binding pockets, allowing for the reprogramming of enzyme activity to achieve targeted therapeutic effects. This innovative approach aims to provide robust treatments in areas such as oncology and inflammation, while also minimizing potential side effects for patients. By employing a precise and selective methodology, Exo Therapeutics is positioned to unlock new therapeutic possibilities for a variety of diseases.
Faze Medicines
Series A in 2020
Faze Medicines is a biotechnology company founded in 2020 and located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The company focuses on developing small molecule drugs that target the underlying mechanisms of disease pathology, with initial therapeutic efforts directed towards conditions such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1). Faze Medicines employs advanced screening and proteomics techniques to explore biomolecular condensate interaction networks, which aids in the identification and development of novel therapeutics. Through its innovative approach, Faze aims to provide effective treatments for patients suffering from these challenging diseases.
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.
Rappta Therapeutics
Series A in 2020
Rappta Therapeutics is a lead-optimization stage biopharmaceutical company. We are working on a first-in-class series of anti-cancer molecules that reactivate a key tumor suppressor, protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A).
Novellus
Series C in 2020
Novellus is a biotechnology company working to develop engineered cellular medicines. The company uses its non-immunogenic mRNA molecules to reprogram and gene-edit cells safely, and with high efficiency. They engineer precision medicines for patient segments and select from its technology toolbox for in vivo, ex vivo, allogeneic and autologous delivery. Novellus platform enables the high-level expression of gene-editing and cell-reprogramming proteins for high-specificity gene repair and both autologous and allogeneic cell therapies. The company is advancing its lead program, a breakthrough therapy for a rare dermatologic disease, through pre-clinical studies. Novellus was founded in 2015 and is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States.
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 that develops small molecule drugs intended to treat neurodegenerative diseases. The company is developing therapeutics for the novel, precisely therapies for genetic neurodegenerative diseases. Escape Bio's pipeline includes candidates targeting known genetic drivers of multiple diseases, including ESB1609, a small molecule S1P5 receptor agonist for the treatment of CNS lysosomal storage disorders and ESB5070, a small molecule kinase inhibitor for Parkinson’s disease patients who have an LRRK2 G2019S variant and an Alzheimer's disease program targeting ApoE4. E-scape Bio was founded in 2015 and is headquartered in San Francisco, California, United States.
ImmPACT Bio
Series A in 2020
ImmPACT Bio USA Inc. is a cell therapy company focused on developing engineered T-cells specifically designed to target and treat solid tumors. By utilizing advanced technology, the company aims to create chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies that exhibit tumor specificity, allowing them to induce cytotoxicity only when interacting with tumor cells while sparing healthy tissues. This selective targeting mitigates the safety risks commonly associated with existing CAR-T therapies, providing a promising approach to cancer treatment that enhances efficacy and reduces potential harm to noncancerous cells.
FoRx Therapeutics
Seed Round in 2020
FoRx Therapeutics AG is a biotechnology company based in Basel, Switzerland, founded in 2019. The company specializes in the development of innovative therapeutics for cancer treatment, specifically targeting key molecular pathways involved in DNA replication stress. By focusing on these novel pathways, FoRx Therapeutics aims to create first-in-class compounds that offer a new approach to targeted anticancer therapies. Through its research and development efforts, the company seeks to provide effective solutions in the fight against cancer.
Akouos
Series B in 2020
Akouos, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Boston, Massachusetts, dedicated to developing gene therapies aimed at restoring, improving, and preserving hearing for individuals affected by various inner ear disorders. Founded in 2016, the company utilizes an innovative platform that includes a proprietary adeno-associated viral vector library and a unique delivery method. Its leading product candidate, AK-OTOF, targets hearing loss resulting from mutations in the OTOF gene. Akouos focuses on genetically-defined patient populations, addressing conditions ranging from single genetic mutations to hearing loss caused by ototoxic drugs and aging. The company has established strategic partnerships with key institutions, including Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Lonza, Inc., to advance its mission of providing precision genetic therapies for sensorineural hearing loss.
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.
Immunitas Therapeutics
Series A in 2019
Immunitas is unlocking human immunology using novel single cell analyses to develop targeted therapeutics for patients with challenging, complex cancers. Translating findings from laboratory research to meaningful clinical advances in humans is a longstanding challenge in the oncology field. Immunitas was founded to directly address this problem and unlock a variety of novel drug targets based on discovery rooted in human biology. They are pursuing this goal with a team of pioneers in these areas across their scientific founders, management, and investors. At Immunitas, they employ a single cell sequencing platform to dissect the biology of immune cells in human tumors. Their focus on human samples allows us to start with and stay closer to the most relevant and translatable biology for patients and accelerates the pace of their research. They are identifying novel, exciting oncology targets and, importantly, developing key biomarkers to guide the selection of patients who may benefit from their new drugs. They are leveraging expertise in antibody discovery and engineering to create powerful therapies that modulate these targets, and are currently advancing a number of programs toward early human studies.
Anokion
Series B in 2019
Anokion, a spin-off from the Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), is focused on applying the company’s antigen-specific immune tolerance technology to reduce the immunogenicity of therapeutic proteins and to treat autoimmune and allergic diseases. As a platform technology, Anokion’s approach to antigen-specific tolerance can be translated to virtually any protein in numerous clinical indications.
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.
TScan Therapeutics
Series B in 2019
TScan Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to discovering and developing innovative T cell receptor (TCR) engineered therapies to combat various cancers. Based in Waltham, Massachusetts, the company focuses on TCR-T therapies for both liquid cancers and solid tumors. Its lead candidates, TSC-100 and TSC-101, are designed to address hematologic malignancies, specifically targeting residual leukemia and preventing relapse after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. In addition, TScan is advancing a multiplexed TCR-T therapy program aimed at treating a range of solid tumors. The company's proprietary platform identifies clinically relevant T cell antigens and minimizes off-target effects, enhancing the precision of its therapies. Founded in 2018, TScan Therapeutics is committed to improving outcomes for patients with serious diseases.
Forendo Pharma
Venture Round in 2019
Forendo Pharma Oy is a drug discovery and development company based in Turku, Finland, established in 2013. The company focuses on the tissue-specific regulation of sex hormone effects to address various urological and endocrinological diseases. Its key products include Fispemifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator designed to treat symptoms of low testosterone in men, and a 17HSD1-inhibitor targeting endometriosis. Forendo Pharma aims to enhance treatment options for both men's and women's health by developing innovative therapies that address unmet medical needs in gynecological conditions, such as endometriosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome.
Cala Health
Series C in 2019
Cala Health, Inc. is a bioelectronic medicine company based in Burlingame, California, founded in 2013. It specializes in developing wearable neuromodulation therapies aimed at treating chronic diseases. The company's flagship product, Cala Trio, is a non-invasive prescription therapy designed to provide transient relief from hand tremors in adults with essential tremor. By integrating advancements in neuroscience and technology, Cala Health focuses on delivering individualized peripheral nerve stimulation. In addition to its work on essential tremor, the company is also developing therapies for other neurological conditions, including Parkinson's disease, as well as applications in psychiatry, cardiology, and autoimmune disorders.
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.
Anaveon
Series A in 2019
Anaveon are developing IL-2 complexes which selectively promote effector T cell functions. Our compounds act as effective immune adjuvants with a broad therapeutic window and marked preclinical efficacy against cancer either as monotherapy or in combination with other therapies.
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.
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.
Artios Pharma
Series B in 2018
Artios Pharma Limited is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, United Kingdom, that specializes in developing innovative cancer treatments targeting DNA damage response (DDR) pathways. Founded in 2015, the company is dedicated to creating first-in-class therapies aimed at selectively killing cancer cells. Artios's product pipeline features several promising programs, including a focus on DNA polymerase theta (Polθ), which plays a crucial role in DNA repair processes. Additionally, the company is advancing an in-licensed program that targets a newly identified protein linked to DDR and is developing a novel treatment aimed at DNA nucleases involved in these pathways. Artios collaborates with Cancer Research Technology and prominent DNA repair researchers globally to enhance its research and development efforts.
Enterprise Therapeutics
Series B in 2018
Enterprise Therapeutics Ltd. is a drug discovery company based in Brighton, United Kingdom, founded in 2014. It focuses on the research and development of innovative therapies for respiratory diseases, specifically targeting chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, and asthma. The company aims to create disease-modifying therapies that address the underlying mechanisms of mucus congestion in the lungs, which can lead to breathing difficulties and increased susceptibility to lung infections. By developing these novel treatments, Enterprise Therapeutics seeks to enhance the quality of life for patients suffering from these chronic respiratory conditions.
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.
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, a privately held Belgian biotherapeutics company.Aelin Therapeutics is founded by VIB and its partner universities KU Leuven, VUB and UGent, based on the groundbreaking work of renowned structural biologists Prof Joost Schymkowitz and Prof Frederic Rousseau. The company is based on a very comprehensive preclinical Proof of Concept data package illustrating different applications of the technology such as in bacteria and cancer cells, but also in fungi, viruses and plant cells, with publications in high impact journals including Science. The Pept-in technology allows for the rational design of novel biotherapeutics and differentiates itself from any other therapeutic modality through its unique mode of action, its designability and intracellular target space out of reach for typical small molecule or antibody approaches.
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.
Neurovia
Series A in 2017
NeuroVia, Inc. is committed to addressing unmet medical needs in neurological diseases with the primary goal to arrest the onset of devastating neurological deficits associated with X-ALD.
ESCAPE Bio
Series A in 2017
Escape Bio is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company that develops small molecule drugs intended to treat neurodegenerative diseases. The company is developing therapeutics for the novel, precisely therapies for genetic neurodegenerative diseases. Escape Bio's pipeline includes candidates targeting known genetic drivers of multiple diseases, including ESB1609, a small molecule S1P5 receptor agonist for the treatment of CNS lysosomal storage disorders and ESB5070, a small molecule kinase inhibitor for Parkinson’s disease patients who have an LRRK2 G2019S variant and an Alzheimer's disease program targeting ApoE4. E-scape Bio was founded in 2015 and is headquartered in San Francisco, California, United States.
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.
Aerpio Pharmaceuticals
Venture Round in 2017
Aerpio Pharmaceuticals, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Cincinnati, Ohio, is dedicated to developing innovative compounds for treating ocular diseases and diabetic complications. Its lead product candidate, razuprotafib, is a small molecule that activates the Tie2 pathway and has completed a Phase IIb clinical trial for diabetic retinopathy. The company is also advancing ARP-1536, a humanized monoclonal antibody in preclinical stages for diabetic vascular complications, and GB004, a selective stabilizer of hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha, currently in a Phase 1b clinical trial for inflammatory bowel disease. Additionally, Aerpio is working on a bispecific antibody targeting wet age-related macular degeneration and diabetic macular edema through intravitreal injection. The company has partnered with Quantum Leap Healthcare Collaborative to evaluate razuprotafib for treating acute respiratory distress syndrome in COVID-19 patients. Founded in 2011 as a spin-out from Akebia Therapeutics, Aerpio adopts an outsourced approach to pharmaceutical development, leveraging the expertise of its management team.
Binx
Series D in 2017
Binx Health Limited is an in vitro diagnostics company based in Trowbridge, United Kingdom, focused on developing point-of-care diagnostic solutions for infectious diseases. Established in 2005, the company offers the binx io system, a FDA-cleared and CLIA-waived platform that detects sexually transmitted infections, including chlamydia and gonorrhea, delivering results comparable to central lab performance within approximately thirty minutes. Additionally, Binx Health provides the Callisto system, which meets various throughput requirements for testing in decentralized and near-patient settings. The company's innovative approach aims to enhance access to healthcare by overcoming traditional barriers and improving patient experiences through rapid polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based testing and a comprehensive digital program that includes counseling and follow-up care. Binx Health has also formed a strategic partnership with Sherlock Biosciences to further advance its capabilities in diagnostics.
Bionano Genomics
Series D in 2016
Bionano Genomics is a biotechnology company that specializes in genome mapping and analysis, focusing on structural variation detection in DNA. The company develops the Saphyr system, which offers ultra-sensitive and specific detection of structural variations—such as insertions, deletions, inversions, and translocations—linked to various genetic disorders, including cancer. Utilizing optical genome mapping technology, the Saphyr system enables the direct visualization of long DNA molecules and their structural variations without the need for sequencing. This capability is crucial for researchers and clinicians aiming to gain insights into disease mechanisms and genetic disorders, ultimately aiding in the development of personalized treatment strategies. Bionano Genomics markets its products primarily to academic and governmental laboratories, as well as pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies across multiple regions, including North America, Europe, and Asia. Headquartered in San Diego, California, the company was founded in 2003 and was previously known as BioNano Genomics, Inc. until its name change in July 2018.
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.
Bionano Genomics
Series D in 2016
Bionano Genomics is a biotechnology company that specializes in genome mapping and analysis, focusing on structural variation detection in DNA. The company develops the Saphyr system, which offers ultra-sensitive and specific detection of structural variations—such as insertions, deletions, inversions, and translocations—linked to various genetic disorders, including cancer. Utilizing optical genome mapping technology, the Saphyr system enables the direct visualization of long DNA molecules and their structural variations without the need for sequencing. This capability is crucial for researchers and clinicians aiming to gain insights into disease mechanisms and genetic disorders, ultimately aiding in the development of personalized treatment strategies. Bionano Genomics markets its products primarily to academic and governmental laboratories, as well as pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies across multiple regions, including North America, Europe, and Asia. Headquartered in San Diego, California, the company was founded in 2003 and was previously known as BioNano Genomics, Inc. until its name change in July 2018.
Galera Therapeutics
Series B in 2016
Galera Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Malvern, Pennsylvania, dedicated to developing innovative therapies that aim to enhance the effectiveness of radiotherapy in cancer treatment. 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 severe oral mucositis induced by radiation in patients with head and neck cancer. Additionally, it is being tested in Phase IIa trials for radiotherapy-induced esophagitis in lung cancer patients. Galera is also advancing a second candidate, GC4711, which is in Phase I/II trials targeting pancreatic and lung cancers. The company was founded in 2012 and is committed to addressing severe side effects associated with cancer treatments to improve patient outcomes.
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.
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.
Galera Therapeutics
Series B in 2015
Galera Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Malvern, Pennsylvania, dedicated to developing innovative therapies that aim to enhance the effectiveness of radiotherapy in cancer treatment. 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 severe oral mucositis induced by radiation in patients with head and neck cancer. Additionally, it is being tested in Phase IIa trials for radiotherapy-induced esophagitis in lung cancer patients. Galera is also advancing a second candidate, GC4711, which is in Phase I/II trials targeting pancreatic and lung cancers. The company was founded in 2012 and is committed to addressing severe side effects associated with cancer treatments to improve patient outcomes.
Proteostasis Therapeutics
Series B in 2015
Proteostasis Therapeutics is discovering and developing novel small molecule therapeutics designed to control the body's protein homeostasis, or Proteostasis Network. The Proteostasis Network maintains the body's natural balance of proteins to protect us from numerous diseases. These novel therapies, or Proteostasis Regulators, are designed to treat multiple genetic and degenerative disorders associated with deficiencies of the Proteostasis Network, such as emphysema, type II diabetes, Alzheimer's Disease and Huntington's Disease.
Ra Pharmaceuticals
Series B in 2015
Ra Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on developing therapeutics for diseases associated with the overactivation of the complement system. Utilizing a peptide chemistry platform, the company creates synthetic macrocyclic peptides that combine the specificity of antibodies with the pharmacological advantages of small molecules. Its lead candidate, Zilucoplan, is an injectable treatment that has completed Phase II clinical trials for generalized myasthenia gravis and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, along with a Phase Ib trial for patients with renal impairment. Additionally, Ra Pharmaceuticals is advancing pre-clinical programs targeting Factor D inhibition for C3 glomerulonephritis and other complement factors for various diseases. The company has established a collaboration with Merck & Co., Inc. to explore orally available cyclic peptides for non-complement cardiovascular targets. Founded in 2008, Ra Pharmaceuticals operates as a subsidiary of UCB SA.
GenSight Biologics
Series B in 2015
GenSight Biologics S.A. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Paris, France, focused on developing gene therapy treatments for retinal degenerative diseases and neurodegenerative conditions affecting the central nervous system. Utilizing its core technology platforms—Mitochondrial Targeting Sequence and Optogenetics—the company aims to preserve and restore vision in patients with severe retinal disorders. Its lead product candidates include GS010, an AAV2-based gene therapy currently in Phase III trials for treating Leber hereditary optic neuropathy caused by mutations in the ND4 gene, and GS030, which is undergoing Phase I/II trials for retinitis pigmentosa and geographic atrophy in dry age-related macular degeneration. In addition to these, GenSight is advancing several products in preclinical stages targeting various ophthalmic and neurodegenerative diseases. Founded in 2012, the company is dedicated to innovative approaches that aim to prevent vision loss and improve the quality of life for affected patients.
Merus
Series C in 2015
Merus B.V. is a clinical-stage biomedical company focused on the discovery and development of antibody-based biopharmaceuticals, specifically in the field of immuno-oncology. The company utilizes its proprietary Oligoclonics technology to produce a class of human antibodies, which allows for the creation of a mixture of therapeutic antibodies targeting a common antigen from a single cell clone. Additionally, Merus develops bispecific antibody therapeutics known as Biclonics, which are designed to engage multiple targets simultaneously. The company's pipeline includes several product candidates such as MCLA-128, MCLA-117, and MCLA-158, among others, all aimed at addressing various cancer indications.
Aeglea BioTherapeutics
Series B in 2015
Aeglea BioTherapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Austin, Texas, focused on developing human enzyme therapeutics for patients with rare genetic and cancer-related diseases. The company's primary product candidate, pegzilarginase, is a recombinant human Arginase 1 enzyme currently undergoing Phase III trials to assess its safety and efficacy in treating Arginase 1 deficiency. Aeglea's preclinical pipeline includes several innovative candidates, such as ACN00177 for homocystinuria, AEB5100 which degrades plasma cystine and cysteine, AEB2109 targeting the degradation of methionine, and AEB3103. Founded in 2013, Aeglea BioTherapeutics aims to address unmet medical needs in the field of rare metabolic disorders through its specialized enzyme therapies.
Zikani Therapeutics
Series A in 2015
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.
Merganser Biotech
Series A in 2015
Merganser Biotech, Inc. is a research and development company focused on creating innovative medicines for the treatment of rare hematological and iron overload diseases, such as hemochromatosis, polycythemia vera, acute severe infections, and beta thalassemia. The company specializes in the development of hepcidin mimetic peptides, which are designed to regulate iron metabolism and address ineffective erythropoiesis. Founded in 2011, Merganser Biotech is headquartered in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania.
Altimmune
Post in 2015
Altimmune is an emerging biotechnology company located in Montgomery County, MD. Altimmune develops vaccines and other biological products to address unmet market and public health needs. The company uses a proprietary technology for non-invasive intranasal delivery, and has shown proof of principle in animals and in initial human clinical studies. Vaxin Inc., formerly known as Vaxin Pharmaceuticals and ImmuneFocus Corporation, was founded in 1997 by Emerging Technology Partners. Early experiments revealed that DNA incorporated into an adenovirus can elicit an immune response when placed on the surface of the skin, and subsequently research was expanded to include applications on the skin in the nose as well as experimentation with other vectors.
Binx
Series C in 2015
Binx Health Limited is an in vitro diagnostics company based in Trowbridge, United Kingdom, focused on developing point-of-care diagnostic solutions for infectious diseases. Established in 2005, the company offers the binx io system, a FDA-cleared and CLIA-waived platform that detects sexually transmitted infections, including chlamydia and gonorrhea, delivering results comparable to central lab performance within approximately thirty minutes. Additionally, Binx Health provides the Callisto system, which meets various throughput requirements for testing in decentralized and near-patient settings. The company's innovative approach aims to enhance access to healthcare by overcoming traditional barriers and improving patient experiences through rapid polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based testing and a comprehensive digital program that includes counseling and follow-up care. Binx Health has also formed a strategic partnership with Sherlock Biosciences to further advance its capabilities in diagnostics.
Annexon Biosciences
Series A in 2014
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.
Bionano Genomics
Series C in 2014
Bionano Genomics is a biotechnology company that specializes in genome mapping and analysis, focusing on structural variation detection in DNA. The company develops the Saphyr system, which offers ultra-sensitive and specific detection of structural variations—such as insertions, deletions, inversions, and translocations—linked to various genetic disorders, including cancer. Utilizing optical genome mapping technology, the Saphyr system enables the direct visualization of long DNA molecules and their structural variations without the need for sequencing. This capability is crucial for researchers and clinicians aiming to gain insights into disease mechanisms and genetic disorders, ultimately aiding in the development of personalized treatment strategies. Bionano Genomics markets its products primarily to academic and governmental laboratories, as well as pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies across multiple regions, including North America, Europe, and Asia. Headquartered in San Diego, California, the company was founded in 2003 and was previously known as BioNano Genomics, Inc. until its name change in July 2018.
Aileron Therapeutics
Series E in 2014
Aileron Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Watertown, Massachusetts, specializing in the development of a novel class of therapeutics known as Stapled Peptides. These peptides are designed to modulate intracellular protein-protein interactions, which are essential for various cellular functions. The company's lead product candidate, ALRN-6924, is a chemoprotective agent aimed at treating advanced solid tumors, peripheral T-cell lymphoma, acute myeloid leukemia, and myelodysplastic syndrome. Currently, ALRN-6924 is undergoing several clinical trials to evaluate its efficacy and safety in these conditions. Additionally, Aileron is developing other product candidates, such as LTI-03 and LTI-01, focused on fibrosis indications, while also advancing next-generation therapies that reactivate wild type p53. The company has established collaborations for clinical trials with prominent institutions, enhancing its research capabilities and potential impact in oncology.
Quartet Medicine
Series A in 2014
Quartet Medicine, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on developing innovative treatments for chronic pain and inflammation. Founded in 2013 by scientists from Boston Children’s Hospital and École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Quartet aims to restore tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) homeostasis in neuronal and inflammatory cells. Research indicates that increased levels of BH4 are essential for regulating peripheral nerve function and immune responses. By leveraging these insights, Quartet is working on novel non-opioid medications that target this biochemical pathway, providing an alternative approach to managing pain and inflammation. The company collaborates with various research partners in Europe and Asia to advance its therapeutic offerings.
Forendo Pharma
Series A in 2014
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.
Viamet Pharmaceuticals Holdings
Series D in 2014
Viamet Pharmaceuticals discovers and develops "best-in-class" inhibitors of validated metalloenzymes via an innovative and proprietary metal-binding approach, their Metallophileâ„¢ Technology. Viamet's disruptive Metallophileâ„¢ technology is based on their world-class expertise in bioinorganic chemistry and metalloenzymes and allows them to identify validated targets with high therapeutic and commercial potential; leverage existing metalloenzyme inhibitors as the basis for Viamet's best-in-class analogs; and rapidly and cost-effectively generate best-in-class, patentable, small molecule compounds by optimizing the metal-binding component of existing inhibitors.
Bicycle Therapeutics
Series A in 2014
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.
Anokion
Series A in 2014
Anokion, a spin-off from the Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), is focused on applying the company’s antigen-specific immune tolerance technology to reduce the immunogenicity of therapeutic proteins and to treat autoimmune and allergic diseases. As a platform technology, Anokion’s approach to antigen-specific tolerance can be translated to virtually any protein in numerous clinical indications.
ImaginAb
Series B in 2014
ImaginAb, Inc. is a clinical stage biotechnology company specializing in immune oncology imaging and radiopharmaceutical therapy. Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Inglewood, California, the company develops targeted imaging agents using its proprietary minibody and cys-diabody platforms. Its lead product, the 89Zr crefmirlimab berdoxam (CD8 ImmunoPET™), is currently in Phase II clinical trials and has been licensed by various pharmaceutical and biotech companies for use in their immunotherapy clinical trials. ImaginAb's portfolio includes precision imaging products for different cancers, such as CD8 and CD4 for immune-oncology, as well as PSMA PET for prostate cancer. By providing actionable insights into patient selection and treatment progress, ImaginAb aims to enhance precision medicine in oncology.
Binx
Series B in 2014
Binx Health Limited is an in vitro diagnostics company based in Trowbridge, United Kingdom, focused on developing point-of-care diagnostic solutions for infectious diseases. Established in 2005, the company offers the binx io system, a FDA-cleared and CLIA-waived platform that detects sexually transmitted infections, including chlamydia and gonorrhea, delivering results comparable to central lab performance within approximately thirty minutes. Additionally, Binx Health provides the Callisto system, which meets various throughput requirements for testing in decentralized and near-patient settings. The company's innovative approach aims to enhance access to healthcare by overcoming traditional barriers and improving patient experiences through rapid polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based testing and a comprehensive digital program that includes counseling and follow-up care. Binx Health has also formed a strategic partnership with Sherlock Biosciences to further advance its capabilities in diagnostics.
Alios BioPharma
Series B in 2014
Alios BioPharma is focused on the discovery and development of innovative antiviral therapies aimed at treating both acute and chronic viral infections. The company employs a range of proprietary technologies, including small molecule activators that stimulate innate immunity, phosphate-protected nucleotide prodrug chemistry, and glycoprotein engineering of interferons. These complementary platforms enable the development of various therapeutic products targeting serious viral infections, such as chronic hepatitis B and C, HIV, respiratory viruses like pandemic influenza, and emerging viral diseases such as SARS. Alios BioPharma’s unique chemical library of nucleoside analogs and advanced virology-based screening systems further enhance its ability to create effective antiviral agents.
Aileron Therapeutics
Series E in 2013
Aileron Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Watertown, Massachusetts, specializing in the development of a novel class of therapeutics known as Stapled Peptides. These peptides are designed to modulate intracellular protein-protein interactions, which are essential for various cellular functions. The company's lead product candidate, ALRN-6924, is a chemoprotective agent aimed at treating advanced solid tumors, peripheral T-cell lymphoma, acute myeloid leukemia, and myelodysplastic syndrome. Currently, ALRN-6924 is undergoing several clinical trials to evaluate its efficacy and safety in these conditions. Additionally, Aileron is developing other product candidates, such as LTI-03 and LTI-01, focused on fibrosis indications, while also advancing next-generation therapies that reactivate wild type p53. The company has established collaborations for clinical trials with prominent institutions, enhancing its research capabilities and potential impact in oncology.
Aerpio Pharmaceuticals
Series A in 2013
Aerpio Pharmaceuticals, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Cincinnati, Ohio, is dedicated to developing innovative compounds for treating ocular diseases and diabetic complications. Its lead product candidate, razuprotafib, is a small molecule that activates the Tie2 pathway and has completed a Phase IIb clinical trial for diabetic retinopathy. The company is also advancing ARP-1536, a humanized monoclonal antibody in preclinical stages for diabetic vascular complications, and GB004, a selective stabilizer of hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha, currently in a Phase 1b clinical trial for inflammatory bowel disease. Additionally, Aerpio is working on a bispecific antibody targeting wet age-related macular degeneration and diabetic macular edema through intravitreal injection. The company has partnered with Quantum Leap Healthcare Collaborative to evaluate razuprotafib for treating acute respiratory distress syndrome in COVID-19 patients. Founded in 2011 as a spin-out from Akebia Therapeutics, Aerpio adopts an outsourced approach to pharmaceutical development, leveraging the expertise of its management team.
Merus
Series B in 2013
Merus B.V. is a clinical-stage biomedical company focused on the discovery and development of antibody-based biopharmaceuticals, specifically in the field of immuno-oncology. The company utilizes its proprietary Oligoclonics technology to produce a class of human antibodies, which allows for the creation of a mixture of therapeutic antibodies targeting a common antigen from a single cell clone. Additionally, Merus develops bispecific antibody therapeutics known as Biclonics, which are designed to engage multiple targets simultaneously. The company's pipeline includes several product candidates such as MCLA-128, MCLA-117, and MCLA-158, among others, all aimed at addressing various cancer indications.
Opsona
Series C in 2013
Drug development firm focused on immunology. They are headquartered in Dublin, Ireland. Opsona Therapeutics is one of Europe's most innovative and dynamic drug development companies. We are at the forefront of drug development in immunology research, with particular focus on the innate immunity pathways. Since its founding in 2004, Opsona has validated and developed a series of exciting new drug candidates and strategies which modulate the human innate immune system. We are located in Dublin, Ireland.
Akebia Therapeutics
Series C in 2013
Akebia Therapeutics, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing and commercializing innovative therapies for kidney diseases. Its primary product, Auryxia, is a ferric citrate formulation used to manage serum phosphorus levels in adult patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), including those on dialysis. The company is also advancing vadadustat, an oral treatment for anemia associated with CKD, which is currently in Phase III trials. Akebia has established collaboration agreements with Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. and Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation for the development and commercialization of vadadustat in various global markets, including the United States and Japan. Additionally, Akebia has a research and license agreement with Janssen Pharmaceutica NV to develop compounds targeting hypoxia-inducible factor prolyl hydroxylases. Founded in 2007, Akebia is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Effector Therapeutics
Series A in 2013
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.
Eledon Pharmaceuticals
Series E in 2013
Eledon Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Irvine, California, specializing in developing treatments for patients with autoimmune diseases, organ transplantation needs, and neurodegenerative disorders. The company's lead product is tegoprubart, an anti-CD40L antibody designed to target the CD40L pathway, which has significant therapeutic potential. Additionally, Eledon focuses on disorders affecting the ear, nose, and throat, with its lead product OP0201 being a surfactant-based nasal aerosol aimed at patients at risk for otitis media. The company also explores foam-based drug delivery technologies, OP0101 and OP0102, for delivering medications to the ear, nose, and sinus cavities. Eledon Pharmaceuticals was previously known as Novus Therapeutics, Inc. before rebranding in January 2021.
Advanced Animal Diagnostics
Series B in 2013
Advanced Animal Diagnostics, Inc. focuses on the research, development, and commercialization of on-farm diagnostic tools aimed at the early detection of subclinical mastitis in dairy cows. Based in Durham, North Carolina, the company offers products such as the QScout Farm Lab, an analyzer system that identifies infections in dairy cows before symptoms manifest, and the QScout Milk Leukocyte Differential rapid test, which analyzes milk to detect and differentiate white blood cells indicative of mastitis. Additionally, Advanced Animal Diagnostics provides solutions like QuickSmear, a rapid differential slide that aids in animal research, and the SCC+ System for early mastitis detection. These diagnostic tools are designed to enhance animal health management, benefiting veterinarians and livestock producers by enabling timely detection of infections and supporting informed treatment decisions. Founded in 2001, the company aims to improve the overall health and productivity of production animals.
GenSight Biologics
Series A in 2013
GenSight Biologics S.A. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Paris, France, focused on developing gene therapy treatments for retinal degenerative diseases and neurodegenerative conditions affecting the central nervous system. Utilizing its core technology platforms—Mitochondrial Targeting Sequence and Optogenetics—the company aims to preserve and restore vision in patients with severe retinal disorders. Its lead product candidates include GS010, an AAV2-based gene therapy currently in Phase III trials for treating Leber hereditary optic neuropathy caused by mutations in the ND4 gene, and GS030, which is undergoing Phase I/II trials for retinitis pigmentosa and geographic atrophy in dry age-related macular degeneration. In addition to these, GenSight is advancing several products in preclinical stages targeting various ophthalmic and neurodegenerative diseases. Founded in 2012, the company is dedicated to innovative approaches that aim to prevent vision loss and improve the quality of life for affected patients.
Catalyst Biosciences
Post in 2013
Catalyst Biosciences, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing innovative treatments for hemophilia and other rare bleeding disorders. The company specializes in subcutaneous (SQ) coagulation factors designed to enhance blood clotting and improve patient outcomes compared to traditional intravenous (IV) therapies. Its product portfolio includes Marzeptacog alfa (activated), an engineered Factor VIIa that has completed Phase II development for hemophilia A or B patients with inhibitors, and Dalcinonacog alfa, a next-generation Factor IX therapy that has undergone Phase IIb clinical trials for hemophilia B. Additionally, Catalyst is developing CB 2679d-GT, a Factor IX gene therapy for hemophilia B, and CB 2782-PEG, a long-acting anti-C3 protease for dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The company has strategic collaborations with Mosaic Biosciences, Inc. for anti-complement factor 3 products and with Biogen International GmbH for the commercialization of pegylated CB 2782 targeting geographic atrophy associated with dry AMD. Established in 2002, Catalyst Biosciences is headquartered in South San Francisco, California.
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