Pfizer
Pfizer, established in 1849, is a leading global pharmaceutical company headquartered in the United States. Its core business involves the discovery, development, manufacture, and sale of prescription medicines, vaccines, and health care products. Pfizer's extensive portfolio spans various therapeutic areas, focusing on wellness and prevention, as well as treatments and cures for numerous diseases. Notable products include the pneumococcal vaccine Prevnar 13, cancer drug Ibrance, and cardiovascular treatment Eliquis. With approximately 50% of its sales coming from international markets, including significant contributions from emerging markets, Pfizer's global presence is substantial. The company is committed to providing access to safe, effective, and affordable medicines, driven by its purpose to improve patient outcomes and enhance overall health. Pfizer Venture Investments, its corporate venture capital arm, invests in emerging companies developing transformative medicines and technologies to further strengthen its pipeline. Additionally, the Pfizer Foundation, an independent non-profit, supports global health strategies and community involvement through funding and resources.
Top Stages
Caroline Roan
Chief Sustainability Officer | SVP, Global Health and Social Impact | President, The Pfizer
Past deals in Clinical Trials
Normunity
Series B in 2025
Normunity is a biotechnology company focused on developing a new class of precision immuno-oncology medicines known as immune normalizers. These innovative therapies aim to restore the body's natural immune response against cancer by targeting novel mechanisms that disrupt immune function. Normunity collaborates closely with the lab of Dr. Lieping Chen at Yale School of Medicine, leveraging proprietary discovery platforms to explore complex interactions between cancer and the immune system. The company's emerging pipeline includes drug programs designed to address the exclusion of T-cells from immune-sensitive tumors and other factors that impede normal immune activity in cancer patients. Normunity operates from locations in Boston, Massachusetts, and West Haven, Connecticut.
Enara Bio
Series B in 2024
Enara Bio Limited is a biotechnology company based in Oxford, United Kingdom, specializing in the development of vaccines and immunotherapies for cancer treatment and prevention. Founded in 2016 and previously known as ErVaxx Limited, the company focuses on creating targeted cancer immunotherapies by exploring novel antigens derived from endogenous retroviral DNA sequences. Enara Bio's technology platform enables the identification and assessment of tumor specificity and immunogenic potential, facilitating improved strategies for combating various cancers. Through its innovative approach, the company aims to provide effective therapeutic options for a broad patient population.
ImmunOs Therapeutics
Series C in 2024
ImmunOs Therapeutics AG is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Schlieren, Switzerland, founded in 2014. The company specializes in the discovery and development of innovative immunotherapies aimed at enhancing cancer treatment and addressing autoimmune diseases. ImmunOs focuses on creating novel human immunomodulatory proteins that play a role in both innate and adaptive immunity. Their therapeutics are designed to exert direct anti-tumor effects by remodeling the tumor microenvironment, while also developing antibodies that inhibit the activation of specific HLA molecules linked to autoimmune conditions. Through its research and development efforts, ImmunOs aims to improve the lives of patients facing serious diseases.
Autobahn Therapeutics
Series C in 2024
Autobahn Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in San Diego, California, focused on developing small molecule therapies for central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Founded in 2017 and originally named Llama Therapeutics, the company aims to address significant unmet medical needs in neuropsychiatry, neurodegeneration, and neuroinflammation. Autobahn's lead candidate, ABX-002, is a thyroid hormone receptor beta agonist being investigated as a potential adjunctive treatment for multiple sclerosis, adrenomyeloneuropathy, major depressive disorder, and bipolar disorder depression. The company employs a brain-targeting chemistry platform that allows for precise tuning of CNS exposure while pursuing validated clinical and biological targets, guided by biomarkers, to unlock new therapeutic opportunities.
CytoReason
Series B in 2024
CytoReason is a biotechnology company that specializes in developing a cell-centered computational model of the human body to analyze complex biological data. By collecting proprietary information from pharmaceutical companies, CytoReason simulates human diseases at both the tissue and cellular levels. Its advanced platform utilizes machine learning to reconstruct cellular information from bulk tissue, training an immune-specific engine and integrating multi-omics data. This approach enables pharmaceutical and biotech companies to gain mechanistic insights into the immune system, facilitating the discovery and development of targeted therapies. The company's innovative technology helps shorten clinical trial phases, reduce development costs, and increase the likelihood of successful regulatory approval.
Greywolf Therapeutics
Series B in 2024
Grey Wolf Therapeutics is a biotechnology company based in Oxford, United Kingdom, focused on developing innovative immunotherapies for oncology. Founded in 2017, the company aims to enhance the visibility of non-responsive tumors to the immune system by directly modifying tumor cells. Its approach involves targeting endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidases (ERAP) 1 and 2 within the antigen presentation pathway, which increases the neoantigen repertoire on tumor cells. This strategy is designed to improve the effectiveness of immunotherapy in treating cancer. Grey Wolf collaborates with leading academic and commercial partners to advance its drug discovery initiatives and deliver clinical candidates against well-validated targets in the field of immuno-oncology.
EvolveImmune Therapeutics
Venture Round in 2023
EvolveImmune Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative immunotherapies aimed at addressing unmet needs in oncology and autoimmune diseases. The company has created an advanced immunobiological platform that combines sustained immune activation with targeted tumor cell therapy in a single agent. Through its unique approach, EvolveImmune's biotherapeutics utilize engineered extracellular vesicles to directly target tumor cells and enhance cytokine secretion at the tumor site, thereby improving tumor destruction while minimizing toxicity. The company is actively building a pipeline of novel therapeutic candidates that leverage its proprietary in vivo target discovery platform, enabling more effective treatment options for patients suffering from various diseases.
AgomAb Therapeutics
Series C in 2023
AgomAb Therapeutics N.V., based in Gent, Belgium, specializes in the development of molecular therapies aimed at regenerating damaged tissues. The company focuses on creating agonistic monoclonal antibodies, known as agomAbs, which are designed to stimulate molecular and cellular repair mechanisms. These therapies have the potential to restore organ function in patients suffering from fibrotic, inflammatory, autoimmune, and degenerative diseases. AgomAb targets biologically validated pathways, including Transforming Growth Factor β and Hepatocyte Growth Factor, while employing specialized capabilities in organ-specific small molecules and high-affinity antibodies. The company boasts a diversified clinical pipeline addressing various fibrotic conditions and possesses comprehensive research and development expertise, alongside a strong track record in business development.
Nimbus Therapeutics
Private Equity Round in 2023
Nimbus Therapeutics, LLC is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on discovering and developing innovative medicines for serious diseases, including metabolic disorders, cancer, and immune-inflammatory conditions. Founded in 2009, the company utilizes a computational technology-driven approach to advance a pipeline of novel small-molecule therapeutics. Nimbus Therapeutics specializes in designing allosteric inhibitors, notably targeting Acetyl-CoA Carboxylase for conditions such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The company has established strategic partnerships with organizations like Charles River Laboratories and Celgene Corporation to enhance its drug development efforts. In March 2015, Nimbus Discovery rebranded itself as Nimbus Therapeutics to better reflect its transition into a clinical-stage enterprise.
Urban Health Plan
Grant in 2023
Urban Health Plan, Inc. is a health center located in the Bronx, New York, serving the communities of Hunts Point, Mott Haven, and Morrisania. Established in 1974, it specializes in delivering both primary and specialty healthcare services. The organization offers a wide range of primary care options, including adolescent and adult medicine, dentistry, family planning, and pediatrics. Specialty services encompass areas such as cardiology, neurology, psychiatry, and pulmonary care, among others. Additionally, Urban Health Plan provides ancillary services like audiology, nutrition, physical therapy, and social services, as well as various diagnostic capabilities including digital radiology and laboratory testing. The center also emphasizes support services through programs focused on asthma management, diabetes care, health education, and health insurance enrollment. Furthermore, Urban Health Plan integrates telehealth services to enhance access to care for its patients.
Mozart Therapeutics
Series A in 2023
Mozart Therapeutics is a biotechnology startup dedicated to developing innovative therapies for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. The company specializes in creating disease-modifying CD8 T cell modulators, leveraging a unique regulatory CD8 T cell network to target a specific subset of T lymphocytes. These modulators aim to restore immune balance and mitigate the damage caused by autoreactive and pathogenic immune responses. By focusing on first-in-class CD8 Treg modulators, Mozart Therapeutics seeks to delay the onset and improve the management of various autoimmune disorders, thereby providing healthcare professionals with advanced treatment options for their patients.
Vedanta Biosciences
Series E in 2023
Vedanta Biosciences, Inc. is a clinical-stage microbiome company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focusing on the development of therapies for immune-mediated diseases. Established in 2010, the company specializes in creating immunotherapies utilizing human microbiome-derived bacteria. Its innovative platform includes a collection of defined bacterial consortia, proprietary assays for selecting effective strains, and extensive datasets from human interventional studies. Vedanta Biosciences also possesses capabilities for cGMP-compliant manufacturing, allowing for the production of live bacterial therapies in powder form. This enables healthcare providers to administer oral treatments aimed at addressing autoimmune and inflammatory diseases efficiently, potentially pioneering a new category of therapies based on the human microbiome.
Flare Therapeutics
Series B in 2023
Flare Therapeutics is a biotechnology company dedicated to developing small molecule medicines through a novel approach to understanding transcription factors. By identifying 'switch sites,' which are druggable regions crucial for regulating transcription factors, Flare aims to target mutations that lead to various diseases. The company has rapidly advanced its drug discovery efforts, creating an emerging pipeline of programs initially focused on precision oncology. Additionally, Flare's innovative platform holds promise for addressing conditions in neurology, rare genetic disorders, immunology, and inflammation, ultimately enabling medical professionals to transform treatment strategies for patients.
Seagen
Acquisition in 2023
Seagen is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Bothell, Washington, that specializes in developing and commercializing monoclonal antibody-based therapies for cancer and autoimmune diseases. Founded in 1997, the company focuses on creating innovative cancer therapies, particularly antibody-drug conjugates, to treat various malignancies, including Hodgkin lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, urothelial cancer, and breast cancer. Its lead product, SGN-35, is undergoing pivotal trials for relapsed or refractory Hodgkin lymphoma. In addition to SGN-35, Seagen is advancing several other product candidates through various stages of clinical trials, including SGN-40, SGN-33, SGN-70, and SGN-75. The company has established collaborations with several prominent pharmaceutical firms, enhancing its research capabilities and drug development efforts. Through its commitment to innovative cancer therapies, Seagen aims to improve treatment outcomes for patients with diverse types of cancer.
Greywolf Therapeutics
Series B in 2023
Grey Wolf Therapeutics is a biotechnology company based in Oxford, United Kingdom, focused on developing innovative immunotherapies for oncology. Founded in 2017, the company aims to enhance the visibility of non-responsive tumors to the immune system by directly modifying tumor cells. Its approach involves targeting endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidases (ERAP) 1 and 2 within the antigen presentation pathway, which increases the neoantigen repertoire on tumor cells. This strategy is designed to improve the effectiveness of immunotherapy in treating cancer. Grey Wolf collaborates with leading academic and commercial partners to advance its drug discovery initiatives and deliver clinical candidates against well-validated targets in the field of immuno-oncology.
ORIC Pharmaceuticals
Post in 2022
ORIC Pharmaceuticals is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative therapies to combat cancer by overcoming resistance mechanisms. The company's lead product candidate, ORIC-101, is a small molecule antagonist of the glucocorticoid receptor, which plays a significant role in resistance to various cancer treatments across multiple solid tumors. Another key candidate, ORIC-533, is an orally bioavailable inhibitor of CD73, targeting a critical pathway in the adenosine metabolism that contributes to resistance against chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Additionally, ORIC is working on a pipeline of precision medicines aimed at addressing other cancer resistance mechanisms. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in South San Francisco, California, ORIC Pharmaceuticals leverages the expertise of its scientific founders, who have extensive backgrounds in cancer research and target discovery.
STORM Therapeutics
Series B in 2022
Storm Therapeutics Limited is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, United Kingdom, focused on discovering and developing small molecule drugs that target RNA-modifying enzymes for cancer treatment and other immune diseases. Incorporated in 2015 and previously known as Iceni Therapeutics Limited, the company utilizes its drug discovery and RNA analytics platform to modulate RNA modifying enzymes, identifying novel targets and first-in-class drug candidates. Storm Therapeutics aims to provide innovative therapies against RNA epigenetic targets, addressing various conditions including oncology, inflammation, viral infections, and central nervous system diseases.
Jnana Therapeutics
Series C in 2022
Jnana Therapeutics Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Boston, Massachusetts, founded in 2016. It specializes in drug discovery, particularly focusing on solute carrier (SLC) transporters, which are vital for understanding various disease pathways. The company’s efforts are directed towards immunometabolism, lysosomal function, and mucosal defense, with applications in immuno-oncology, inflammatory disorders, and neurological diseases. Utilizing its proprietary RAPID platform, Jnana accelerates the identification of therapeutic targets and the development of small molecule therapies. By leveraging advanced chemoproteomics techniques, the company aims to enhance the efficiency of drug discovery and address significant unmet medical needs in patient care.
CytoReason
Corporate Round in 2022
CytoReason is a biotechnology company that specializes in developing a cell-centered computational model of the human body to analyze complex biological data. By collecting proprietary information from pharmaceutical companies, CytoReason simulates human diseases at both the tissue and cellular levels. Its advanced platform utilizes machine learning to reconstruct cellular information from bulk tissue, training an immune-specific engine and integrating multi-omics data. This approach enables pharmaceutical and biotech companies to gain mechanistic insights into the immune system, facilitating the discovery and development of targeted therapies. The company's innovative technology helps shorten clinical trial phases, reduce development costs, and increase the likelihood of successful regulatory approval.
Nimbus Therapeutics
Venture Round in 2022
Nimbus Therapeutics, LLC is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on discovering and developing innovative medicines for serious diseases, including metabolic disorders, cancer, and immune-inflammatory conditions. Founded in 2009, the company utilizes a computational technology-driven approach to advance a pipeline of novel small-molecule therapeutics. Nimbus Therapeutics specializes in designing allosteric inhibitors, notably targeting Acetyl-CoA Carboxylase for conditions such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The company has established strategic partnerships with organizations like Charles River Laboratories and Celgene Corporation to enhance its drug development efforts. In March 2015, Nimbus Discovery rebranded itself as Nimbus Therapeutics to better reflect its transition into a clinical-stage enterprise.
Autobahn Therapeutics
Venture Round in 2022
Autobahn Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in San Diego, California, focused on developing small molecule therapies for central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Founded in 2017 and originally named Llama Therapeutics, the company aims to address significant unmet medical needs in neuropsychiatry, neurodegeneration, and neuroinflammation. Autobahn's lead candidate, ABX-002, is a thyroid hormone receptor beta agonist being investigated as a potential adjunctive treatment for multiple sclerosis, adrenomyeloneuropathy, major depressive disorder, and bipolar disorder depression. The company employs a brain-targeting chemistry platform that allows for precise tuning of CNS exposure while pursuing validated clinical and biological targets, guided by biomarkers, to unlock new therapeutic opportunities.
Global Blood Therapeutics
Acquisition in 2022
Global Blood Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in South San Francisco, California, focused on developing innovative therapies for underserved patient communities, particularly those affected by blood disorders. The company is advancing its lead product candidate, Oxbryta (voxelotor), which is an oral, once-daily therapy designed for the treatment of sickle cell disease (SCD). Oxbryta has completed Phase III clinical trials in adult and adolescent patients and is currently being evaluated for safety and pharmacokinetics in a Phase IIa trial involving pediatric patients. In addition to its efforts in SCD, Global Blood Therapeutics is engaged in research and development for other blood-related conditions, including hereditary angioedema, and holds licensed rights to its product candidates in multiple regions, including the United States and Europe.
DEM BioPharma
Series A in 2022
DEM BioPharma is an immuno-oncology company focused on developing innovative therapies to combat cancer by harnessing the innate immune system. The company is pioneering a platform dedicated to creating next-generation macrophage immunotherapies, which aim to activate macrophages and immune phagocytes to effectively target and eliminate tumors. By researching and targeting specific signals on both cancer cells and macrophages, DEM BioPharma seeks to provide healthcare researchers with advanced treatment options that enhance the body's ability to fight cancer.
Valneva
Post in 2022
Valneva is a biopharmaceutical company specializing in the development, manufacturing, and distribution of prophylactic vaccines for infectious diseases. Its portfolio comprises two commercially available vaccines (IXIARO/JESPECT for Japanese encephalitis and DUKORAL for traveler's diarrhea), along with vaccine candidates targeting Lyme disease, chikungunya virus, and COVID-19. Valneva operates through segments including Commercialized Vaccines, Covid-19 Vaccine, Vaccine Candidates, and Technologies & Services. The company aims to address significant unmet medical needs in infectious diseases by leveraging its expertise and capabilities to advance vaccine candidates through clinical trials and ultimately commercialize them.
ImCheck Therapeutics
Series C in 2022
ImCheck Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company based in Marseille, France, that specializes in developing immunotherapeutics aimed at addressing severe unmet medical needs, particularly in the field of immuno-oncology. Founded in 2015, the company focuses on designing and developing immuno-modulatory antibodies that target members of the butyrophilin super-family of checkpoint molecules. These innovative therapies engage γ9δ2 T cells, a specific type of immune cell, to effectively treat various cancers, including breast, gastric, and ovarian cancers, as well as other solid tumors. Through its advanced research and development efforts, ImCheck Therapeutics seeks to provide next-generation immunotherapeutics for patients suffering from immune-related diseases.
ImmunOs Therapeutics
Series B in 2022
ImmunOs Therapeutics AG is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Schlieren, Switzerland, founded in 2014. The company specializes in the discovery and development of innovative immunotherapies aimed at enhancing cancer treatment and addressing autoimmune diseases. ImmunOs focuses on creating novel human immunomodulatory proteins that play a role in both innate and adaptive immunity. Their therapeutics are designed to exert direct anti-tumor effects by remodeling the tumor microenvironment, while also developing antibodies that inhibit the activation of specific HLA molecules linked to autoimmune conditions. Through its research and development efforts, ImmunOs aims to improve the lives of patients facing serious diseases.
Biohaven Pharmaceutical
Acquisition in 2022
Biohaven Pharmaceuticals is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the discovery, development, and commercialization of innovative treatments for neurological diseases and other therapeutic areas. The company focuses on life-changing therapies targeting conditions such as neuromuscular disorders, metabolic diseases, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and various forms of cancer. Its diverse pipeline includes late-stage product candidates that utilize mechanisms such as calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor antagonists, glutamate modulators, and myeloperoxidase inhibitors. Notable candidates in its pipeline include BHV3000-301, BHV3000-302, and BHV3000-303, among others. Biohaven's commitment to addressing unmet medical needs positions it as a significant player in the biopharmaceutical landscape.
Zentalis Pharmaceuticals
Post in 2022
Zentalis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in New York that focuses on developing small molecule therapeutics for cancer treatment. Established in 2014, the company employs an integrated discovery engine to identify and develop new chemical entities targeting critical biological pathways in various cancers. Its lead product candidate, ZN-c5, is an oral selective estrogen receptor degrader currently undergoing Phase I/II clinical trials for advanced or metastatic breast cancer. Additionally, Zentalis is advancing several other candidates, including ZN-c3, an inhibitor of the WEE1 protein for advanced solid tumors; ZN-d5, a selective inhibitor of B-cell lymphoma 2 for hematological malignancies; and ZN-e4, an irreversible inhibitor of mutant epidermal growth factor receptor for advanced non-small cell lung cancer, all of which are in various stages of clinical development.
Resistell
Grant in 2022
Resistell AG is a Swiss company founded in 2018, based in Muttenz, specializing in the development and marketing of innovative diagnostic devices for antibiotic susceptibility testing. The company's platform employs advanced nanomotion technology to detect the movement of living bacterial cells, allowing for the rapid identification of bacterial resistance to antibiotics. This method serves as an alternative to traditional culture-based antibiograms, enabling healthcare providers to administer appropriate antibiotics in a timely manner, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
ReViral
Acquisition in 2022
ReViral Ltd is a biotechnology company based in Stevenage, United Kingdom, specializing in the discovery and development of antiviral drugs targeting respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Founded in 2011, ReViral is focused on creating innovative first-in-class compounds, including a highly potent fusion inhibitor designed specifically for treating severe RSV infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as neonates. By advancing these novel antiviral treatments, ReViral aims to address significant unmet medical needs and expand the antiviral market, ultimately improving patient outcomes for those affected by RSV.
TRIANA Biomedicines
Series A in 2022
Triana Biomedicines is a pharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing molecular glues, which are innovative therapeutic agents designed to regulate challenging disease targets. The company utilizes a sophisticated drug discovery platform that integrates high-resolution structural insights with advanced in silico tools and customized chemical libraries. This technology allows Triana to stabilize existing protein interactions or create new ones, thereby modifying the behavior or functionality of disease targets. The research team has successfully validated their platform and has initiated multiple drug development programs across various disease areas, aiming to provide healthcare professionals with effective treatment options for a broad spectrum of therapeutic applications.
GeneDx Holding
Post in 2022
GeneDx is a company dedicated to providing personalized and actionable health insights that enhance diagnosis and treatment, ultimately improving health outcomes. Positioned at the intersection of diagnostics and data science, GeneDx combines decades of genomic expertise with the capability to interpret clinical data at scale. The company focuses on accelerating the application of genomic information and large-scale clinical data to establish precision medicine as a standard practice in healthcare. GeneDx leads the transformation of healthcare through its comprehensive exome and genome testing services, leveraging one of the largest rare disease data sets in the world. The business operates through two segments: GeneDx, which generates the majority of its revenue, and Legacy Sema4 diagnostics.
Anaveon
Series B in 2021
Anaveon AG is a biopharmaceutical company based in Bottmingen, Switzerland, founded in 2017. The company specializes in the development of biologics aimed at modulating cytokine functions to provide therapeutic benefits for patients with immune pathology. Anaveon focuses on creating next-generation IL-2-based therapeutic antibodies that selectively enhance effector T cell functions, thereby acting as effective immune adjuvants. Its compounds demonstrate substantial preclinical efficacy against cancer, both as monotherapy and in combination with other treatments. Through these advancements, Anaveon aims to transform cytokines into life-saving treatments for various diseases associated with immune system dysfunction.
Arena Pharmaceuticals
Acquisition in 2021
Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in San Diego, California, that specializes in developing innovative medicines for various diseases, including cardiovascular, central nervous system, inflammatory, and metabolic disorders. Founded in 1997, the company focuses on pharmacology and pharmacokinetics, advancing several investigational drugs through clinical trials. Notable candidates include Etrasimod, which is in Phase III trials for ulcerative colitis and Phase IIb/III for Crohn’s disease, and Olorinab, currently in Phase IIb trials for abdominal pain linked to irritable bowel syndrome. Additionally, Arena is developing ralinepag for pulmonary arterial hypertension and APD418 for acute heart failure. The company has formed collaborations with several organizations, including United Therapeutics and Eisai, to enhance its research and expand its market presence. Arena Pharmaceuticals also has a marketed product, lorcaserin, approved for weight management, further demonstrating its commitment to addressing critical health challenges through innovative therapies.
Kestrel Therapeutics
Series A in 2021
Kestrel Therapeutics is a medical research and development company focused on creating innovative treatment solutions for RAS-driven cancers. The company specializes in developing oncological drugs that target RAS, a frequently mutated oncogenic driver in various cancer types. Kestrel Therapeutics aims to develop therapeutic molecules that are effective regardless of the specific RAS isoform, mutation, or tumor histology, thereby offering hope for improved outcomes in cancer treatment. Through its targeted approach, the company strives to provide healthcare professionals with effective tools to address the challenges posed by RAS cancers and enhance patient care.
Effector Therapeutics
Post in 2021
eFFECTOR Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in San Diego, California, that specializes in the development of selective translation regulators for the treatment of cancer and other serious diseases. Founded in 2012, the company is pioneering a new class of oncology drugs known as selective translation regulator inhibitors (STRIs). These drug candidates specifically target the eIF4F complex and its associated kinase, MNK 1/2, which play critical roles in protein synthesis and are linked to prominent cancer signaling pathways such as PI3K-AKT and RAS-MEK. eFFECTOR's products aim to inhibit pathways that drive tumor growth, survival, and immune evasion by regulating the expression of oncoproteins and immunosuppressive proteins. The lead candidate, tomivosertib, is currently being evaluated in a Phase 2b trial for non-small cell lung cancer in combination with pembrolizumab. Additionally, zotatifin, an inhibitor of eIF4A, is undergoing dose-escalation in a Phase 1/2 trial, with further expansion cohorts anticipated. The company also collaborates with Pfizer to advance inhibitors targeting eIF4E.
Trillium Therapeutics
Acquisition in 2021
Trillium Therapeutics Inc. is a clinical-stage immuno-oncology company based in Mississauga, Canada, that specializes in developing therapies for cancer treatment. The company focuses on harnessing the immune system to combat malignancies through innovative protein therapeutics. Its lead program, TTI-621, is a SIRPaFc fusion protein currently undergoing Phase I clinical trials for advanced relapsed or refractory hematologic malignancies, solid tumors, and mycosis fungoides. Additionally, Trillium is advancing TTI-622, another SIRPaFc protein in Phase I trials, while also exploring TTI-10001, a small molecule stimulator of interferon genes agonist in the discovery phase. Originally founded in 2004, the company has undergone several name changes, reflecting its evolving focus within the biopharmaceutical sector.
Jnana Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Jnana Therapeutics Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Boston, Massachusetts, founded in 2016. It specializes in drug discovery, particularly focusing on solute carrier (SLC) transporters, which are vital for understanding various disease pathways. The company’s efforts are directed towards immunometabolism, lysosomal function, and mucosal defense, with applications in immuno-oncology, inflammatory disorders, and neurological diseases. Utilizing its proprietary RAPID platform, Jnana accelerates the identification of therapeutic targets and the development of small molecule therapies. By leveraging advanced chemoproteomics techniques, the company aims to enhance the efficiency of drug discovery and address significant unmet medical needs in patient care.
Strata Oncology
Series C in 2021
Strata Oncology, Inc. is a precision oncology company focused on enhancing cancer care by facilitating access to precision medicine clinical trials and expediting drug approval processes. Based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the company develops a comprehensive precision oncology platform that supports routine testing and efficient use of molecular data. Strata's offerings include The Strata Trial, a genomic testing program for systematic precision oncology implementation, and StrataNGS, a targeted assay for sequencing DNA and RNA from biopsies. Additionally, StrataPOINT integrates electronic medical record histories with molecular profiling to ensure eligible patients are tested and considered for trial enrollment. The company features a portfolio of pharma-sponsored therapeutic protocols, known as Strata Partnered Trials, aligned to specific biomarkers. Strata also operates The Strata Lab, a cancer sequencing facility, and maintains the Strata Precision Oncology Network, a collaborative entity aimed at promoting precision medicine initiatives. Formerly known as Strata Oncology Research, Inc., the company rebranded in 2016 and has been incorporated since 2015.
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 2016, the company is dedicated to creating first-in-class therapies that selectively kill cancer cells by exploiting their reliance on DDR mechanisms. Artios’ product pipeline includes a range of promising candidates, such as a therapy that targets DNA polymerase theta, a protein involved in DNA repair processes, and another program focusing on a novel DDR target. The company collaborates with prominent research organizations, including Cancer Research Technology, to enhance its development efforts and leverage expertise in DNA repair. Artios is led by a skilled team with extensive experience in drug discovery, positioning it to advance its next-generation DDR programs and contribute significantly to the field of cancer treatment.
Spero Therapeutics
Post in 2021
Spero Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, dedicated to developing innovative treatments for multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacterial infections and rare diseases. Founded in 2013, the company is advancing several product candidates, including tebipenem pivoxil hydrobromide, an oral carbapenem-class antibiotic aimed at treating MDR gram-negative infections in adults. Additionally, Spero is developing SPR206, an intravenous agent for MDR gram-negative infections in hospital settings, and SPR720, an oral antibiotic targeting pulmonary non-tuberculous mycobacterial disease. The company collaborates with various partners, including Meiji Seika Pharma to support tebipenem HBr's development and the Bill & Melinda Gates Medical Research Institute for SPR720. Spero Therapeutics employs a focused approach to drug development, emphasizing novel mechanisms to address the urgent need for effective therapeutics against serious bacterial infections.
Interius BioTherapeutics
Series A in 2021
Interius BioTherapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company that develops in vivo cell-specific gene medicines to treat B cell lymphomas. Intravenous in vivo CAR treatment, which treats B cell lymphomas, is the company's flagship program. Its unique engineering provides exceptional target tissue specificity. The business is working on a second initiative to address autoimmune conditions. With the help of Interius, a novel and distinct therapeutic modality for the precise administration of gene therapies may soon be made available to patients in expanded care settings, without the need for preconditioning chemotherapy.
Amplyx Pharmaceuticals
Acquisition in 2021
Amplyx Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a small molecule drug development company focused on creating innovative therapies for debilitating and life-threatening diseases, particularly those affecting individuals with compromised immune systems. Founded in 2006 and based in San Diego, California, the company specializes in the development of oral and injectable anti-infective drugs, including antifungal agents designed to treat invasive fungal infections caused by pathogens such as Candida and Aspergillus. Amplyx employs a unique platform approach that enhances the efficacy and reduces the toxicity of existing drugs by incorporating a second small molecule. This strategy aims to provide effective treatment options for patients undergoing chemotherapy and other immunosuppressive therapies, ensuring they receive appropriate care both during hospitalization and after discharge.
ImCyse
Series B in 2021
Imcyse SA is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Liège, Belgium, specializing in innovative immunotherapeutic solutions aimed at treating severe chronic autoimmune diseases. Founded in 2010, Imcyse is pioneering a unique technology platform that employs Imotopes™, specifically modified peptides that target immune cells responsible for organ damage. This approach facilitates the generation of cytolytic CD4 T-cells, which selectively eliminate antigen-presenting cells and autoantigen-specific lymphocytes, thereby addressing diseases with limited treatment options. The company has shown proof of concept across various indications and has completed its initial clinical trial for type 1 diabetes, yielding promising outcomes. In addition to type 1 diabetes, Imcyse is actively developing a pipeline of therapies for multiple autoimmune diseases, aiming to provide effective treatment while preserving overall immune defense.
LianBio
Venture Round in 2020
LianBio is a biopharmaceutical company founded in 2019, headquartered in Shanghai, China, with an additional office in Princeton, New Jersey. The company is dedicated to the discovery and development of therapeutic drugs aimed at treating oncology and cardiorenal diseases, as well as addressing other unmet medical needs in Greater China and major Asian markets. LianBio focuses on in-licensing assets and collaborates with leading partners to enhance its pipeline, which includes clinically validated product candidates across various therapeutic areas such as cardiovascular, oncology, ophthalmology, inflammatory diseases, and respiratory indications. The company aims to accelerate the availability of innovative medicines to improve patient outcomes through a science-driven approach.
Arixa Pharmaceuticals
Acquisition in 2020
Arixa Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing oral antibiotics to combat drug-resistant Gram-negative infections. Founded in 2016 and based in Palo Alto, California, the company is advancing its lead product, ARX-1796, an oral prodrug of Avibactam, a broad-spectrum beta-lactamase inhibitor approved by the FDA. Arixa utilizes a unique prodrug chemistry technology platform that transforms intravenous-only antimicrobial agents into formulations suitable for oral administration. This innovation addresses significant medicinal chemistry challenges associated with prodrug development in this class of compounds. Arixa aims to provide effective treatment options for patients suffering from bacterial infections, while also securing broad patent protection for its proprietary formulations.
Palleon Pharmaceuticals
Series B in 2020
Palleon Pharmaceuticals Inc. is a biotechnology company dedicated to developing innovative therapeutics that target glycan-mediated immune regulation for the treatment of cancer and inflammatory diseases. Founded in 2015 and based in Waltham, Massachusetts, the company specializes in glycoimmune checkpoint inhibitors, leveraging advanced insights from glycoscience and human immunology. Palleon's biotechnology platform aims to provide a novel approach to cancer treatment by targeting various immune cell types, thus offering physicians an expanded array of combination therapies to enhance treatment efficacy and address resistance to existing immuno-oncology agents. In addition to cancer, the company also focuses on therapeutics for inflammatory diseases, including autoimmunity and fibrosis.
Trillium Therapeutics
Post in 2020
Trillium Therapeutics Inc. is a clinical-stage immuno-oncology company based in Mississauga, Canada, that specializes in developing therapies for cancer treatment. The company focuses on harnessing the immune system to combat malignancies through innovative protein therapeutics. Its lead program, TTI-621, is a SIRPaFc fusion protein currently undergoing Phase I clinical trials for advanced relapsed or refractory hematologic malignancies, solid tumors, and mycosis fungoides. Additionally, Trillium is advancing TTI-622, another SIRPaFc protein in Phase I trials, while also exploring TTI-10001, a small molecule stimulator of interferon genes agonist in the discovery phase. Originally founded in 2004, the company has undergone several name changes, reflecting its evolving focus within the biopharmaceutical sector.
ESSA Pharma
Post in 2020
ESSA Pharma Inc. is a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company based in Vancouver, Canada, established in 2009. The company is dedicated to developing innovative therapies for prostate cancer, particularly advanced stages of the disease. Its lead product candidate, EPI-7386, is an oral medication currently undergoing a Phase I clinical study aimed at treating patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. ESSA's research focuses on small molecule drugs that selectively inhibit the N-terminal domain of the androgen receptor, a critical component for the growth and survival of prostate cancer cells. This strategic targeting represents a promising avenue for next-generation hormone therapy in the treatment of prostate cancer.
Cerevel Therapeutics
Post in 2020
Cerevel Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative therapies for neuroscience diseases. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company is advancing a diverse pipeline that includes five clinical-stage investigational therapies and several preclinical compounds targeting conditions such as schizophrenia, epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, and substance use disorder. Key products under development include CVL-231, a positive allosteric modulator for schizophrenia; CVL-865, which is being tested for drug-resistant focal onset epilepsy and acute anxiety; and Tavapadon, a selective dopamine D1/D5 partial agonist for Parkinson's disease. Cerevel Therapeutics employs a unique approach that leverages expertise in neurocircuitry and receptor selectivity to address unmet medical needs in the field of neuroscience.
BioAtla
Series D in 2020
BioAtla, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Diego, California, focused on developing innovative antibody-based therapeutics for cancer treatment. The company utilizes its proprietary platforms, Conditionally Active Biologics (CAB) and Comprehensive Integrated Antibody Optimization (CIAO!), to create highly selective and effective drugs. Its lead product candidate, BA3011, is a conditionally active biologic antibody-drug conjugate targeting soft tissue and bone sarcomas, non-small cell lung cancer, and other tumor types. Additionally, BioAtla is developing BA3021, aimed at non-small cell lung cancer and melanoma, as well as BA3071, which targets multiple cancers, including renal cell carcinoma and hepatocellular carcinoma. The company holds over 150 issued patents and applications, emphasizing its commitment to improving drug selectivity and safety while expanding the range of treatable cancers.
4D Molecular Therapeutics
Series C in 2020
4D Molecular Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage gene therapy company based in Emeryville, California, focused on developing innovative gene therapies for unmet medical needs. The company utilizes targeted and evolved adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors to create its product candidates, which are concentrated in the therapeutic areas of ophthalmology, cardiology, and pulmonology. Key candidates in its portfolio include 4D-125, currently in a Phase I/II trial for X-linked retinitis pigmentosa, and 4D-110, undergoing Phase I trials for choroideremia. Additionally, 4D-310 is in Phase I/II trials for Fabry disease, while investigational drugs 4D-150 and 4D-710 are being developed for wet age-related macular degeneration and cystic fibrosis lung disease, respectively. Founded in 2013, 4D Molecular Therapeutics aims to advance its gene therapies to address significant health challenges.
Autobahn Therapeutics
Series B in 2020
Autobahn Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in San Diego, California, focused on developing small molecule therapies for central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Founded in 2017 and originally named Llama Therapeutics, the company aims to address significant unmet medical needs in neuropsychiatry, neurodegeneration, and neuroinflammation. Autobahn's lead candidate, ABX-002, is a thyroid hormone receptor beta agonist being investigated as a potential adjunctive treatment for multiple sclerosis, adrenomyeloneuropathy, major depressive disorder, and bipolar disorder depression. The company employs a brain-targeting chemistry platform that allows for precise tuning of CNS exposure while pursuing validated clinical and biological targets, guided by biomarkers, to unlock new therapeutic opportunities.
Amplyx Pharmaceuticals
Series C in 2020
Amplyx Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a small molecule drug development company focused on creating innovative therapies for debilitating and life-threatening diseases, particularly those affecting individuals with compromised immune systems. Founded in 2006 and based in San Diego, California, the company specializes in the development of oral and injectable anti-infective drugs, including antifungal agents designed to treat invasive fungal infections caused by pathogens such as Candida and Aspergillus. Amplyx employs a unique platform approach that enhances the efficacy and reduces the toxicity of existing drugs by incorporating a second small molecule. This strategy aims to provide effective treatment options for patients undergoing chemotherapy and other immunosuppressive therapies, ensuring they receive appropriate care both during hospitalization and after discharge.
Kymera Therapeutics
Series C in 2020
Kymera Therapeutics, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Watertown, Massachusetts, specializing in targeted protein degradation. Founded in 2015, the company employs a proprietary platform that utilizes the body's natural protein degradation system to selectively degrade disease-causing proteins. Kymera is advancing several therapeutic programs, including its IRAK4 program aimed at treating immunology-inflammation diseases such as hidradenitis suppurativa, atopic dermatitis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, it is developing the IRAKIMiD program for MYD88-mutated diffuse large B cell lymphoma and the STAT3 program targeting hematologic malignancies, solid tumors, and autoimmune diseases. By focusing on previously untreatable conditions and using innovative small molecule modalities, Kymera Therapeutics aims to revolutionize drug discovery and create effective treatments for challenging diseases.
EvolveImmune Therapeutics
Venture Round in 2020
EvolveImmune Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative immunotherapies aimed at addressing unmet needs in oncology and autoimmune diseases. The company has created an advanced immunobiological platform that combines sustained immune activation with targeted tumor cell therapy in a single agent. Through its unique approach, EvolveImmune's biotherapeutics utilize engineered extracellular vesicles to directly target tumor cells and enhance cytokine secretion at the tumor site, thereby improving tumor destruction while minimizing toxicity. The company is actively building a pipeline of novel therapeutic candidates that leverage its proprietary in vivo target discovery platform, enabling more effective treatment options for patients suffering from various diseases.
Metabomed
Series B in 2019
Metabomed is a drug discovery company focused on developing treatments for cancer by targeting the unique metabolic pathways of cancer cells. Its proprietary platform leverages computational biology, genomics, and metabolomics to identify specific metabolic alterations that support cancer growth. By creating small molecules that specifically target these reprogrammed metabolic processes, Metabomed aims to halt tumor progression while minimizing harm to surrounding healthy tissues. This innovative approach allows for quicker initiation of treatment and increases the likelihood of successful patient outcomes.
ImmunOs Therapeutics
Series A in 2019
ImmunOs Therapeutics AG is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Schlieren, Switzerland, founded in 2014. The company specializes in the discovery and development of innovative immunotherapies aimed at enhancing cancer treatment and addressing autoimmune diseases. ImmunOs focuses on creating novel human immunomodulatory proteins that play a role in both innate and adaptive immunity. Their therapeutics are designed to exert direct anti-tumor effects by remodeling the tumor microenvironment, while also developing antibodies that inhibit the activation of specific HLA molecules linked to autoimmune conditions. Through its research and development efforts, ImmunOs aims to improve the lives of patients facing serious diseases.
ImCheck Therapeutics
Series B in 2019
ImCheck Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company based in Marseille, France, that specializes in developing immunotherapeutics aimed at addressing severe unmet medical needs, particularly in the field of immuno-oncology. Founded in 2015, the company focuses on designing and developing immuno-modulatory antibodies that target members of the butyrophilin super-family of checkpoint molecules. These innovative therapies engage γ9δ2 T cells, a specific type of immune cell, to effectively treat various cancers, including breast, gastric, and ovarian cancers, as well as other solid tumors. Through its advanced research and development efforts, ImCheck Therapeutics seeks to provide next-generation immunotherapeutics for patients suffering from immune-related diseases.
Array BioPharma
Acquisition in 2019
Array BioPharma is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the discovery, development, and commercialization of targeted small molecule drugs for the treatment of cancer and other significant diseases. Founded in 1998 and headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, the company focuses on clinical-stage drugs, including binimetinib, encorafenib, selumetinib, tucatinib, and several others. Array BioPharma has established partnerships with major pharmaceutical companies, such as AstraZeneca and Roche, to enhance its drug development and commercial capabilities. The company operates across North America, Europe, and the Asia Pacific, underscoring its commitment to providing innovative therapies for patients in need.
STORM Therapeutics
Series A in 2019
Storm Therapeutics Limited is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, United Kingdom, focused on discovering and developing small molecule drugs that target RNA-modifying enzymes for cancer treatment and other immune diseases. Incorporated in 2015 and previously known as Iceni Therapeutics Limited, the company utilizes its drug discovery and RNA analytics platform to modulate RNA modifying enzymes, identifying novel targets and first-in-class drug candidates. Storm Therapeutics aims to provide innovative therapies against RNA epigenetic targets, addressing various conditions including oncology, inflammation, viral infections, and central nervous system diseases.
Arrakis Therapeutics
Series B in 2019
Arrakis Therapeutics, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Waltham, Massachusetts, that specializes in drug discovery focused on ribonucleic acid (RNA) targets. Established in 2015, the company utilizes a proprietary platform that combines advanced RNA bioinformatics, structural tools, and chemical libraries to identify new RNA targets and develop RNA-targeted small molecules (rSMs). This innovative approach aims to address various diseases, including cancer, neurological disorders, and rare genetic conditions. Arrakis also offers SHAPEware, a software tool designed to analyze and predict RNA secondary structures and potential ligand-binding sites, further enhancing its drug development capabilities. Through its comprehensive pipeline, Arrakis Therapeutics seeks to improve treatment options and outcomes for patients across multiple therapeutic areas.
SpringWorks Therapeutics
Series B in 2019
SpringWorks Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing and commercializing innovative therapies for patients with rare diseases and cancer. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut, the company employs a precision medicine approach to create targeted oncology solutions. Its lead product candidate, nirogacestat, is an oral small molecule gamma secretase inhibitor currently in Phase III clinical trials for desmoid tumors. Additionally, SpringWorks is advancing mirdametinib, an oral small molecule MEK inhibitor, which is undergoing Phase IIb trials for neurofibromatosis type 1-associated plexiform neurofibromas. The company is also exploring various combination therapies involving nirogacestat and mirdametinib for multiple myeloma and solid tumors. SpringWorks has established collaborations with notable organizations to enhance its research and development efforts, aiming to unlock new treatment options for underserved patient populations.
Vivet Therapeutics
Corporate Round in 2019
Vivet Therapeutics SAS is a biotechnology company based in Paris, France, focused on the research, development, and commercialization of gene therapy treatments for inherited liver disorders and orphan diseases. Founded in 2016, the company utilizes a liver-tropic adeno-associated virus (AAV) to deliver therapeutic genes directly to hepatocytes, aiming to correct genetic disorders at the source. Vivet is particularly engaged in developing innovative solutions for conditions such as Wilson disease, Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis (PFIC), and Citrullinemia Type I (CTLN1). To enhance its gene therapy approaches, Vivet collaborates with the Fundación para la Investigación Médica Aplicada at the Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, focusing on optimizing AAV vectors for targeted liver delivery and ensuring long-term expression of therapeutic genes.
Imara
Series B in 2019
Imara, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Boston, Massachusetts, that specializes in developing and commercializing therapeutics for patients with rare genetic disorders of hemoglobin. Founded in 2016, the company is advancing IMR-687, an oral, once-daily therapeutic designed to treat sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia. IMR-687 is a highly selective small molecule inhibitor of PDE9, engineered to have a multimodal mechanism of action that impacts various cell types, including red blood cells and white blood cells, as well as adhesion mediators. Through its innovative approach, Imara aims to provide disease-modifying treatments for individuals affected by hemoglobinopathies.
Gliknik
Corporate Round in 2019
Gliknik Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing therapies for patients with cancer and immune disorders. Founded in 2007 and based in Baltimore, Maryland, Gliknik's product portfolio includes GL-0817, aimed at preventing the recurrence of squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity, and GL-2045, which targets various autoimmune diseases such as immune thrombocytopenic purpura, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, and Myasthenia gravis. Additionally, the company develops GB-4542, an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody therapy. Gliknik employs several innovative platforms, including an Immunomodulator Platform that utilizes off-the-shelf peptide drugs to enhance immune responses against cancer, the Stradomer Platform that creates drugs mimicking the efficacy of human intravenous immunoglobulin, and the Stradobody Platform, which produces compounds akin to monoclonal antibodies for tumor cell targeting. Through these initiatives, Gliknik aims to provide meaningful therapies that alleviate suffering for patients facing these challenging health conditions.
Kymera Therapeutics
Series B in 2018
Kymera Therapeutics, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Watertown, Massachusetts, specializing in targeted protein degradation. Founded in 2015, the company employs a proprietary platform that utilizes the body's natural protein degradation system to selectively degrade disease-causing proteins. Kymera is advancing several therapeutic programs, including its IRAK4 program aimed at treating immunology-inflammation diseases such as hidradenitis suppurativa, atopic dermatitis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, it is developing the IRAKIMiD program for MYD88-mutated diffuse large B cell lymphoma and the STAT3 program targeting hematologic malignancies, solid tumors, and autoimmune diseases. By focusing on previously untreatable conditions and using innovative small molecule modalities, Kymera Therapeutics aims to revolutionize drug discovery and create effective treatments for challenging diseases.
NextCure
Series B in 2018
NextCure, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Beltsville, Maryland, that focuses on discovering and developing novel immunomedicines aimed at treating cancer and other immune-related diseases by restoring normal immune function. Its lead product candidate, NC318, is currently undergoing Phase 2 clinical trials for advanced or metastatic solid tumors. Additionally, NextCure is developing NC410, designed to inhibit immune suppression through the modulation of a specific immune receptor. The company is also advancing other product candidates, including LNCB74, an antibody-drug conjugate targeting B7-H4, and is exploring additional immunomodulatory molecules in preclinical stages. NextCure has established collaborations with Yale University for licensing and with Eli Lilly and Company for research and development. Founded in 2015, the company leverages proprietary platforms to identify biologically relevant targets in its pursuit of first-in-class immunotherapy solutions.
Morphic Therapeutic
Series B in 2018
Morphic Therapeutic is a biotechnology company focused on developing oral integrin therapies to address serious chronic diseases such as autoimmune disorders, cardiovascular issues, metabolic diseases, fibrosis, and cancer. The company leverages its expertise in integrins to create a pipeline of small-molecule inhibitors targeting various integrin pathways. This innovative approach aims to provide effective treatments for patients suffering from immunological, fibrotic, neoplastic, and vascular conditions, contributing to advancements in biopharmaceuticals.
System1 Biosciences
Series A in 2018
System1 Biosciences, Inc. is a San Francisco-based neurotherapeutics company established in 2017, specializing in drug discovery for complex neurological and psychiatric disorders, including epilepsy, autism, and schizophrenia. The company employs phenotypic screening, integrating cerebral organoid science, systems neuroscience, robotic automation, and advanced data analytics to uncover novel characterizations of diseases. This innovative approach allows System1 to identify "deep phenotypes," which are utilized to discover new therapeutic targets and drug treatments, addressing gaps in traditional discovery techniques that have struggled with these challenging conditions.
4D Molecular Therapeutics
Series B in 2018
4D Molecular Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage gene therapy company based in Emeryville, California, focused on developing innovative gene therapies for unmet medical needs. The company utilizes targeted and evolved adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors to create its product candidates, which are concentrated in the therapeutic areas of ophthalmology, cardiology, and pulmonology. Key candidates in its portfolio include 4D-125, currently in a Phase I/II trial for X-linked retinitis pigmentosa, and 4D-110, undergoing Phase I trials for choroideremia. Additionally, 4D-310 is in Phase I/II trials for Fabry disease, while investigational drugs 4D-150 and 4D-710 are being developed for wet age-related macular degeneration and cystic fibrosis lung disease, respectively. Founded in 2013, 4D Molecular Therapeutics aims to advance its gene therapies to address significant health challenges.
Magnolia NeuroSciences
Series A in 2018
Magnolia Neurosciences Corporation is a New York-based company focused on drug discovery and development, specifically targeting neuroprotective therapies for central nervous system diseases and neurodegeneration. Established in 2018, the company aims to create proprietary small molecule therapeutics that prevent neuronal cell death, offering new treatment options for patients with neurodegenerative disorders and related conditions. Magnolia Neurosciences was founded to advance technologies developed at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center’s Therapeutics Discovery Division and the Neurodegeneration Consortium. Through its innovative approach, the company seeks to address significant medical needs in the field of neurology.
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 2016, the company is dedicated to creating first-in-class therapies that selectively kill cancer cells by exploiting their reliance on DDR mechanisms. Artios’ product pipeline includes a range of promising candidates, such as a therapy that targets DNA polymerase theta, a protein involved in DNA repair processes, and another program focusing on a novel DDR target. The company collaborates with prominent research organizations, including Cancer Research Technology, to enhance its development efforts and leverage expertise in DNA repair. Artios is led by a skilled team with extensive experience in drug discovery, positioning it to advance its next-generation DDR programs and contribute significantly to the field of cancer treatment.
Nimbus Therapeutics
Series C in 2018
Nimbus Therapeutics, LLC is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on discovering and developing innovative medicines for serious diseases, including metabolic disorders, cancer, and immune-inflammatory conditions. Founded in 2009, the company utilizes a computational technology-driven approach to advance a pipeline of novel small-molecule therapeutics. Nimbus Therapeutics specializes in designing allosteric inhibitors, notably targeting Acetyl-CoA Carboxylase for conditions such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The company has established strategic partnerships with organizations like Charles River Laboratories and Celgene Corporation to enhance its drug development efforts. In March 2015, Nimbus Discovery rebranded itself as Nimbus Therapeutics to better reflect its transition into a clinical-stage enterprise.
Strata Oncology
Series B in 2018
Strata Oncology, Inc. is a precision oncology company focused on enhancing cancer care by facilitating access to precision medicine clinical trials and expediting drug approval processes. Based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the company develops a comprehensive precision oncology platform that supports routine testing and efficient use of molecular data. Strata's offerings include The Strata Trial, a genomic testing program for systematic precision oncology implementation, and StrataNGS, a targeted assay for sequencing DNA and RNA from biopsies. Additionally, StrataPOINT integrates electronic medical record histories with molecular profiling to ensure eligible patients are tested and considered for trial enrollment. The company features a portfolio of pharma-sponsored therapeutic protocols, known as Strata Partnered Trials, aligned to specific biomarkers. Strata also operates The Strata Lab, a cancer sequencing facility, and maintains the Strata Precision Oncology Network, a collaborative entity aimed at promoting precision medicine initiatives. Formerly known as Strata Oncology Research, Inc., the company rebranded in 2016 and has been incorporated since 2015.
Allogene Therapeutics
Series A in 2018
Allogene Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing off-the-shelf, genetically engineered allogeneic T cell therapies for cancer treatment. The company's pipeline includes UCART19, in development for relapsed/refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia, and several preclinical allogeneic CAR T therapies targeting various cancers. Allogene's approach uses gene editing and advanced manufacturing technologies to create a scalable, broader patient eligibility option compared to autologous therapies. Revenue is primarily generated through collaborations and licensing agreements.
BioGraph 55
Venture Round in 2018
BioGraph 55 is an immuno-oncology target discovery and drug development company focused on addressing significant unmet clinical needs in oncology and autoimmunity. The company specializes in discovering and developing bispecific antibodies for these areas using a reverse translational approach. This involves identifying potential cellular targets within diseased tissues and validating mechanisms to capture clinically relevant content from the tumor microenvironment, thereby advancing novel B-cell therapies.
Palleon Pharmaceuticals
Series A in 2017
Palleon Pharmaceuticals Inc. is a biotechnology company dedicated to developing innovative therapeutics that target glycan-mediated immune regulation for the treatment of cancer and inflammatory diseases. Founded in 2015 and based in Waltham, Massachusetts, the company specializes in glycoimmune checkpoint inhibitors, leveraging advanced insights from glycoscience and human immunology. Palleon's biotechnology platform aims to provide a novel approach to cancer treatment by targeting various immune cell types, thus offering physicians an expanded array of combination therapies to enhance treatment efficacy and address resistance to existing immuno-oncology agents. In addition to cancer, the company also focuses on therapeutics for inflammatory diseases, including autoimmunity and fibrosis.
SpringWorks Therapeutics
Series A in 2017
SpringWorks Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing and commercializing innovative therapies for patients with rare diseases and cancer. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut, the company employs a precision medicine approach to create targeted oncology solutions. Its lead product candidate, nirogacestat, is an oral small molecule gamma secretase inhibitor currently in Phase III clinical trials for desmoid tumors. Additionally, SpringWorks is advancing mirdametinib, an oral small molecule MEK inhibitor, which is undergoing Phase IIb trials for neurofibromatosis type 1-associated plexiform neurofibromas. The company is also exploring various combination therapies involving nirogacestat and mirdametinib for multiple myeloma and solid tumors. SpringWorks has established collaborations with notable organizations to enhance its research and development efforts, aiming to unlock new treatment options for underserved patient populations.
Complexa
Series C in 2017
Complexa, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative medicines for severe and life-threatening conditions related to fibrosis and inflammation. Founded in 2008 and based in Berwyn, Pennsylvania, the company specializes in researching endogenous human cell signaling technologies to address a range of inflammatory, fibrotic, and central nervous system diseases. Its proprietary technology centers on the synthesis and therapeutic use of endogenous nitro-fatty acids, which serve as cell-signaling agents that modulate key inflammatory pathways. Notable among its developments is CXA-10, an oral nitrated fatty acid compound aimed at treating conditions such as focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and pulmonary arterial hypertension. Through its research efforts, Complexa aims to enhance existing anti-inflammatory and metabolic signaling mechanisms to support the resolution and repair of both acute and chronic tissue injuries.
Effector Therapeutics
Series C in 2017
eFFECTOR Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in San Diego, California, that specializes in the development of selective translation regulators for the treatment of cancer and other serious diseases. Founded in 2012, the company is pioneering a new class of oncology drugs known as selective translation regulator inhibitors (STRIs). These drug candidates specifically target the eIF4F complex and its associated kinase, MNK 1/2, which play critical roles in protein synthesis and are linked to prominent cancer signaling pathways such as PI3K-AKT and RAS-MEK. eFFECTOR's products aim to inhibit pathways that drive tumor growth, survival, and immune evasion by regulating the expression of oncoproteins and immunosuppressive proteins. The lead candidate, tomivosertib, is currently being evaluated in a Phase 2b trial for non-small cell lung cancer in combination with pembrolizumab. Additionally, zotatifin, an inhibitor of eIF4A, is undergoing dose-escalation in a Phase 1/2 trial, with further expansion cohorts anticipated. The company also collaborates with Pfizer to advance inhibitors targeting eIF4E.
Aquinnah Pharmaceuticals
Venture Round in 2017
Aquinnah Pharmaceuticals, Inc., founded in 2014 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a pharmaceutical company dedicated to developing therapies for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other neurodegenerative diseases. The company focuses on innovative research aimed at modulating neurodegenerative stress granules, which are thought to play a significant role in the pathology of ALS. Through its specialized approach, Aquinnah Pharmaceuticals aims to address critical unmet medical needs in the field of neurodegeneration.
Arrakis Therapeutics
Series A in 2017
Arrakis Therapeutics, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Waltham, Massachusetts, that specializes in drug discovery focused on ribonucleic acid (RNA) targets. Established in 2015, the company utilizes a proprietary platform that combines advanced RNA bioinformatics, structural tools, and chemical libraries to identify new RNA targets and develop RNA-targeted small molecules (rSMs). This innovative approach aims to address various diseases, including cancer, neurological disorders, and rare genetic conditions. Arrakis also offers SHAPEware, a software tool designed to analyze and predict RNA secondary structures and potential ligand-binding sites, further enhancing its drug development capabilities. Through its comprehensive pipeline, Arrakis Therapeutics seeks to improve treatment options and outcomes for patients across multiple therapeutic areas.
Rhythm Pharmaceuticals
Venture Round in 2017
Rhythm Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the development and commercialization of therapeutics for rare genetic disorders, particularly those that lead to life-threatening metabolic conditions. The company’s primary product candidate, setmelanotide, is a first-in-class melanocortin-4 receptor agonist currently undergoing Phase III clinical trials for the treatment of obesity related to pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) and leptin receptor deficiencies, as well as Bardet-Biedl and Alström syndromes. Additionally, it is in Phase II trials for various other genetic obesity disorders. Rhythm Pharmaceuticals is also advancing RM-853, an orally available ghrelin o-acyltransferase inhibitor in preclinical development aimed at addressing Prader-Willi syndrome. Founded in 2008 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, the company previously operated under the name Rhythm Metabolic, Inc. and rebranded in October 2015.
Superfluid DX
Seed Round in 2017
Superfluid DX is a company focused on developing advanced molecular diagnostics technology aimed at early disease detection and monitoring. By leveraging innovative research in transcriptomics, Superfluid DX analyzes tissue-specific cell-free circulating RNA found in blood samples. This non-invasive approach enables the identification of genetic information linked to neurodegenerative diseases and other conditions, providing healthcare professionals with critical insights into a patient's health status. The company's platform is designed to facilitate early diagnosis and ongoing monitoring of organ damage, ultimately improving patient outcomes by enabling timely interventions.
IGNITE Immunotherapy
Acquisition in 2016
IGNITE Immunotherapy is focused on advancing cancer treatment through innovative immunotherapy solutions. The company specializes in the development of optimized intravenous oncolytic virus vaccines, which are designed to enhance the effectiveness of existing immune checkpoint inhibitors. By igniting a targeted immune response against cancer, IGNITE aims to improve patient outcomes and ultimately cure cancer through combination immunotherapy. Their expertise encompasses oncolytic virus design, gene therapy vector discovery, and the development of experimental cancer therapeutics, positioning them at the forefront of biotechnological advancements in the fight against cancer.
Ixchelsis
Venture Round in 2016
Ixchelsis Ltd is a clinical-stage biotechnology company headquartered in Sandwich, United Kingdom, founded in 2011. The firm is focused on the development of IX-01, an oxytocin receptor antagonist aimed at treating premature ejaculation (PE). This innovative therapeutic approach represents a promising advancement in male sexual health. IX-01 has successfully completed a Phase 1 single ascending dose study in healthy male volunteers and is currently advancing toward clinical proof of concept. The company is supported by funding from prominent investors and is led by a skilled management team with significant experience in pharmaceutical research and development, particularly in the field of male reproductive health.
Medivation
Acquisition in 2016
Medivation, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the development and commercialization of innovative therapies aimed at treating serious diseases with limited treatment options. The company specializes in small molecule drugs and is notably collaborating with Astellas Pharma to develop MDV3100 for various stages of advanced prostate cancer, having completed a Phase III trial for the drug. Medivation operates three subsidiaries: Medivation Prostate Therapeutics, which focuses on the MDV300 series technology for advanced prostate cancer; Medivation Neurology, which was engaged in developing dimebon for Alzheimer’s disease and Huntington's disease; and Medivation Technologies, which oversees earlier-stage technologies. Through its efforts, Medivation strives to provide effective treatment alternatives for critically ill patients and their families.
Bamboo Therapeutics
Acquisition in 2016
Bamboo Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on advancing gene therapies for the treatment of monogenic disorders, particularly those affecting the central nervous system and neuromuscular conditions. Founded to translate the pioneering work of Dr. Richard Jude Samulski, a leading figure in gene therapy, the company aims to move innovative treatments from the laboratory into human clinical trials, ultimately seeking drug approval. Dr. Samulski, recognized for his groundbreaking use of adeno-associated virus (AAV) as a vehicle for gene replacement, has significantly contributed to the field through the development of over twenty patents related to AAV therapeutic applications. Bamboo Therapeutics leverages his expertise in vector optimization and AAV re-engineering to enhance the safety and efficacy of its gene therapies.
BIND Therapeutics
Acquisition in 2016
BIND Therapeutics is a clinical-stage nanomedicine platform company focused on developing innovative targeted and programmable therapeutics known as Accurins. These specialized drug delivery systems are engineered with distinct physical and chemical properties to effectively target specific cells or tissues, concentrating therapeutic agents at the disease site to improve treatment efficacy while reducing adverse effects on healthy tissues. BIND's primary focus is on oncology, with its lead drug candidate, BIND-014, currently undergoing Phase 2 clinical trials for non-small cell lung cancer and metastatic castrate-resistant prostate cancer. The company also collaborates with leading biopharmaceutical firms, such as Amgen, Pfizer, and AstraZeneca, to create Accurins utilizing their therapeutic payloads. Through its medicinal nanoengineering platform, BIND Therapeutics aims to advance its own pipeline and forge strategic partnerships in the field of cancer treatment.
Vtesse
Series A in 2016
Vtesse, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Gaithersburg, Maryland, focused on developing treatments for patients with rare diseases. The company is primarily engaged in the clinical study of VTS-270 for the treatment of Niemann-Pick Disease Type C (NPC) and is also involved in the pre-clinical discovery and development of additional novel drugs for NPC and other lysosomal storage diseases. Vtesse operates as a subsidiary of Sucampo Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and is recognized as the first spin-out from Cydan Development, Inc., an orphan-drug accelerator. The company collaborates with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to advance its clinical programs and is supported by a seasoned management team with extensive experience in drug development. Vtesse's initiatives aim not only to provide innovative therapies but also to offer resources and support for patients and families affected by NPC and related conditions.
Morphic Therapeutic
Series A in 2016
Morphic Therapeutic is a biotechnology company focused on developing oral integrin therapies to address serious chronic diseases such as autoimmune disorders, cardiovascular issues, metabolic diseases, fibrosis, and cancer. The company leverages its expertise in integrins to create a pipeline of small-molecule inhibitors targeting various integrin pathways. This innovative approach aims to provide effective treatments for patients suffering from immunological, fibrotic, neoplastic, and vascular conditions, contributing to advancements in biopharmaceuticals.
STORM Therapeutics
Series A in 2016
Storm Therapeutics Limited is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, United Kingdom, focused on discovering and developing small molecule drugs that target RNA-modifying enzymes for cancer treatment and other immune diseases. Incorporated in 2015 and previously known as Iceni Therapeutics Limited, the company utilizes its drug discovery and RNA analytics platform to modulate RNA modifying enzymes, identifying novel targets and first-in-class drug candidates. Storm Therapeutics aims to provide innovative therapies against RNA epigenetic targets, addressing various conditions including oncology, inflammation, viral infections, and central nervous system diseases.
Anacor Pharmaceuticals
Acquisition in 2016
Anacor Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company specializing in the discovery, development, and commercialization of small-molecule therapeutics based on its unique boron chemistry platform. The company is known for its marketed product, KERYDIN, a topical solution for treating onychomycosis, a fungal infection of the toenails. Anacor's lead product candidate, crisaborole topical ointment, is an anti-inflammatory therapy currently undergoing Phase III clinical trials for mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. Additionally, the company is developing AN3365, an antibiotic aimed at treating infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria. Anacor has established collaboration agreements with various organizations to advance drug candidates targeting diseases such as African trypanosomiasis, tuberculosis, and other neglected tropical diseases. Founded in 2000 and headquartered in Palo Alto, California, Anacor Pharmaceuticals was previously known as AnaMax, Inc. and became a subsidiary of Pfizer Inc. in 2016.
Imara
Series A in 2016
Imara, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Boston, Massachusetts, that specializes in developing and commercializing therapeutics for patients with rare genetic disorders of hemoglobin. Founded in 2016, the company is advancing IMR-687, an oral, once-daily therapeutic designed to treat sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia. IMR-687 is a highly selective small molecule inhibitor of PDE9, engineered to have a multimodal mechanism of action that impacts various cell types, including red blood cells and white blood cells, as well as adhesion mediators. Through its innovative approach, Imara aims to provide disease-modifying treatments for individuals affected by hemoglobinopathies.
Metabomed
Series A in 2016
Metabomed is a drug discovery company focused on developing treatments for cancer by targeting the unique metabolic pathways of cancer cells. Its proprietary platform leverages computational biology, genomics, and metabolomics to identify specific metabolic alterations that support cancer growth. By creating small molecules that specifically target these reprogrammed metabolic processes, Metabomed aims to halt tumor progression while minimizing harm to surrounding healthy tissues. This innovative approach allows for quicker initiation of treatment and increases the likelihood of successful patient outcomes.
NextCure
Series A in 2016
NextCure, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Beltsville, Maryland, that focuses on discovering and developing novel immunomedicines aimed at treating cancer and other immune-related diseases by restoring normal immune function. Its lead product candidate, NC318, is currently undergoing Phase 2 clinical trials for advanced or metastatic solid tumors. Additionally, NextCure is developing NC410, designed to inhibit immune suppression through the modulation of a specific immune receptor. The company is also advancing other product candidates, including LNCB74, an antibody-drug conjugate targeting B7-H4, and is exploring additional immunomodulatory molecules in preclinical stages. NextCure has established collaborations with Yale University for licensing and with Eli Lilly and Company for research and development. Founded in 2015, the company leverages proprietary platforms to identify biologically relevant targets in its pursuit of first-in-class immunotherapy solutions.
Petra Pharma
Series A in 2016
Petra Pharma Corporation is a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company based in New York, focused on discovering and developing innovative therapies that modulate phosphoinositide (PI) signaling pathways for the treatment of cancer and metabolic diseases. Founded in 2015, the company targets novel enzyme pathways that play crucial roles in various cellular processes, such as cell division, growth, trafficking, and signaling. By developing small molecules aimed at these processes, Petra Pharma seeks to create impactful therapeutic options that enhance patient care and improve health outcomes.
Imara
Seed Round in 2016
Imara, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Boston, Massachusetts, that specializes in developing and commercializing therapeutics for patients with rare genetic disorders of hemoglobin. Founded in 2016, the company is advancing IMR-687, an oral, once-daily therapeutic designed to treat sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia. IMR-687 is a highly selective small molecule inhibitor of PDE9, engineered to have a multimodal mechanism of action that impacts various cell types, including red blood cells and white blood cells, as well as adhesion mediators. Through its innovative approach, Imara aims to provide disease-modifying treatments for individuals affected by hemoglobinopathies.
Protalix Biotherapeutics
Post in 2015
Protalix Biotherapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company based in Karmiel, Israel, specializing in the development and commercialization of recombinant therapeutic proteins using its proprietary ProCellEx plant cell-based protein expression system. The company is known for its product Elelyso, a plant-expressed recombinant glucocerebrosidase enzyme approved for treating Gaucher disease. Protalix is advancing a diverse pipeline that includes PRX-102, currently in phase III trials for Fabry disease, and OPRX-106, an orally delivered protein candidate for inflammatory bowel disease. Other products in development include PRX-110 for cystic fibrosis and PRX-115 for gout. Protalix has established partnerships with notable organizations, including Pfizer, which collaborates on the development and commercialization of Elelyso outside of Israel. Founded in 1993, Protalix is focused on addressing significant medical needs through its innovative biopharmaceutical solutions.
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