Samsara BioCapital LLC is a principal investment firm established in 2016 and located in Palo Alto, California. The company specializes in providing investment advisory services aimed at supporting biotechnology firms and entrepreneurs in transforming their ideas into successful ventures. It focuses on sectors such as healthcare, life sciences, oncology, and digital health, emphasizing innovation in the development of new therapies. Samsara BioCapital actively seeks to partner with ambitious and visionary companies, fostering collaboration to advance significant advancements in biotechnology.
Jade Biosciences is developing transformative therapies to redefine the standard of care for inflammation and immunology indications.
Normunity
Series B in 2025
Normunity is a biotechnology company focused on developing precision immuno-oncology medicines, specifically a new class known as immune normalizers. These medicines aim to target novel mechanisms that enhance the body’s natural immune response against cancer. In collaboration with the lab of Dr. Lieping Chen at Yale School of Medicine, Normunity is researching newly-discovered mechanisms of immune disruption in cancer, utilizing proprietary discovery platforms to explore the intricate interactions between cancer and the immune system. The company is advancing a pipeline of immune normalizers, which includes initial drug programs designed to address the exclusion of T-cells from immune-sensitive tumors and other factors that impede normal immune function in cancer. Normunity operates from locations in Boston, Massachusetts, and West Haven, Connecticut.
Palvella Therapeutics
Post in 2024
Palvella Therapeutics, based in Wayne, Pennsylvania, is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company established in 2015. It focuses on developing and commercializing targeted therapies for serious and rare genetic skin diseases, specifically genodermatoses. The company's lead product, QTORIN, is a specialized anhydrous gel designed to deliver active ingredients effectively into the skin, addressing the underlying causes of various dermatological conditions. Palvella's pipeline includes candidates aimed at treating microcystic lymphatic malformations and cutaneous venous malformations, utilizing its proprietary QTORIN platform to offer innovative solutions for underserved patient populations.
OnKure Therapeutics
Post in 2024
OnKure Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to developing innovative cancer therapies through the discovery of precision medicines that target biologically validated drivers of cancer. The company focuses on less toxic kinase inhibitor drugs, particularly selective inhibitors of histone deacetylases (HDACs). Its lead candidate, OKI-179, has demonstrated significant and safe tumor growth reduction in pre-clinical models for both hematological and solid tumors, either alone or in combination with other targeted therapies. Additionally, OnKure is advancing another candidate, OKI-422, into pre-clinical toxicology studies. The company's pipeline includes tumor-agnostic therapies that aim to enhance treatment efficacy and tolerability by directly targeting malignant cells and optimizing the tumor microenvironment for improved checkpoint inhibition.
Enara Bio
Series B in 2024
Enara Bio is a biotechnology company based in Oxford, United Kingdom, focused on developing vaccines and immunotherapies for cancer treatment and prevention. Founded in 2016, the company specializes in identifying and utilizing novel antigens derived from endogenous retroviral DNA sequences to create therapeutic cancer vaccines. Enara Bio's technology platform enables the exploration of dark antigens, assessing their tumor specificity and immunogenic potential, which is crucial for effective cancer therapies. The company's innovative approach targets the interaction between T-cells and cancer cells, aiming to create targeted immunotherapies that can benefit a broad patient population.
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. Since its incorporation in 2017, Autobahn has aimed to address significant unmet needs in neuropsychiatry and neuroimmunology through its innovative brain-targeting chemistry platform. The company's leading candidate, ABX-002, is a thyroid hormone receptor beta agonist being investigated as a potential treatment for multiple sclerosis and adrenomyeloneuropathy, as well as an adjunctive therapy for major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder depression. Autobahn Therapeutics emphasizes precision tuning of CNS exposure, targeting validated clinical and biological markers to enhance therapeutic opportunities and patient outcomes.
Cargo Therapeutics
Post in 2024
Cargo Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing next-generation CAR T-cell therapies aimed at overcoming cancer treatment resistance and improving patient access to potentially curative options. The company aims to enhance treatment outcomes by addressing the limitations of existing therapies, which currently provide curative benefits to less than half of cancer patients. Its lead program, CRG-022, is a novel CAR T-cell product candidate that targets CD22, a tumor antigen prevalent in many B-cell malignancies. By tackling issues such as limited durability, safety concerns, and supply chain obstacles, Cargo Therapeutics is committed to advancing innovative solutions that make effective cancer treatments more accessible to patients.
Enlaza Therapeutics
Series A in 2024
Enlaza Therapeutics is a biotechnology research company founded in 2020 and based in La Jolla, California. The company focuses on developing novel protein therapeutics aimed at providing more effective and safer treatment options for patients. Utilizing advanced synthetic biology technology, Enlaza's platform enables site-specific covalent coupling driven by drug binding. This innovative approach allows for the creation of first-in-class covalent biologics, which are designed to offer enhanced efficacy and improved safety profiles compared to existing treatments.
Leap Therapeutics
Post in 2024
Leap Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, dedicated to developing targeted and immuno-oncology therapies for cancer treatment. Founded in 2011, the company primarily focuses on acquiring and advancing therapies that inhibit tumor-promoting pathways and activate the immune system against cancer cells. Its lead program, DKN-01, is a monoclonal antibody targeting Dickkopf-related protein 1 (DKK1), currently undergoing clinical trials for various cancers, including esophagogastric, gynecologic, and colorectal cancers. Additionally, Leap Therapeutics is developing FL-301, which targets Claudin18.2-expressing cells, along with two preclinical antibody programs, FL-302 and FL-501, aimed at creating transformative cancer treatments.
Obsidian Therapeutics
Series C in 2024
Obsidian Therapeutics is a developer of a next-generation cell and gene therapies created to extend adoptive immunotherapy to every patient with cancer.The company's next-generation cell and gene therapies with pharmacologic operating systems provide exquisite control of protein activity in cells and create adoptive cell therapies with new functions that are under control of the treating physician using simple, safe, orally-active, marketed drugs, enabling patients to improve on the current generation of cell therapies.
Nkarta Therapeutics
Post in 2024
Nkarta Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing engineered natural killer (NK) cells for the treatment of cancer and autoimmune diseases. The company aims to enhance the efficacy of cell therapy by leveraging the inherent ability of NK cells to identify and eliminate abnormal cells without the need for genetic alteration. This approach allows for a broader application across various hematologic and solid tumor malignancies while potentially minimizing side effects associated with traditional T-cell therapies. Nkarta combines its NK expansion platform technology with proprietary cell engineering methods to produce a substantial supply of NK cells, enhancing their ability to recognize therapeutic targets and improving their persistence in the body for sustained activity. Through this innovative strategy, Nkarta seeks to provide more potent, well-tolerated, and rapidly available therapies for patients facing diverse cancer types.
LENZ Therapeutics
Post in 2024
LENZ Therapeutics is a late-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the development and commercialization of innovative ophthalmic therapies aimed at improving vision. The company's primary focus is on addressing presbyopia, a common condition that leads to the gradual loss of near vision, affecting nearly all individuals over the age of 45. LENZ Therapeutics is currently advancing an aceclidine-based eye drop specifically designed to restore near vision, addressing a significant unmet need in the market. Through its efforts, the company aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals experiencing vision changes related to aging.
Alumis
Series C in 2024
Alumis is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing precision medicines for autoimmune disorders. By leveraging a proprietary data analytics platform and biological insights, Alumis aims to transform the treatment landscape for patients suffering from these conditions. The company focuses on identifying and advancing therapeutics based on genetically validated targets, which enables the creation of targeted therapies that significantly improve patient outcomes. With a team of experts experienced in drug discovery and immunology, Alumis seeks to replace broad immunosuppression with more effective, targeted treatment options, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for individuals affected by autoimmune diseases.
FogPharma
Series E in 2024
FogPharma is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative cancer therapies through its unique cell-penetrating mini proteins (CPMPs). Founded by Greg Verdine, the company aims to address cancer-causing proteins that are typically inaccessible to traditional treatments. By collaborating with leading experts in cancer biology and therapy, FogPharma is creating a new class of medicines designed to neutralize these challenging targets. The company is supported by a diverse group of private and institutional investors, which enables it to pursue its mission of delivering transformative cancer treatments. FogPharma is dedicated to improving the lives of patients and their families, striving to extend both life expectancy and quality of life.
vTv Therapeutics
Post in 2024
vTv Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in High Point, North Carolina, dedicated to the discovery and development of orally administered small molecule therapeutics aimed at addressing unmet medical needs. The company has a diverse pipeline that includes drug candidates for various conditions, particularly focusing on central nervous system disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, and metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes. Key products under development include Azeliragon, which is in Phase II clinical trials for mild Alzheimer's disease, and TTP399, a liver-selective glucokinase activator that has shown promising results in treating type 2 diabetes. Other candidates such as TTP273, HPP737, HPP971, and HPP3033 are also being explored for chronic diseases. vTv Therapeutics emphasizes innovative technology and strategic collaborations to advance its research and development efforts, aiming to translate protein modulation into effective treatments. The company operates as a subsidiary of MacAndrews & Forbes Incorporated and was previously known as TransTech Pharma before rebranding in 2015.
Mineralys Therapeutics
Post in 2024
Mineralys Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company that provides hypertension treatment. They also bring a targeted approach to the management of hypertension.
Jasper Therapeutics
Post in 2024
Jasper Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Menlo Park, California, focused on developing therapeutic agents for hematopoietic stem cell transplants and gene therapies. The company aims to create safer conditioning agents that enable broader use of curative therapies, particularly through its novel engineered hematopoietic stem cells platform. Its lead compound, JSP191, is a humanized monoclonal antibody currently in clinical development. This agent functions as a conditioning treatment by targeting and clearing hematopoietic stem cells from bone marrow, facilitating successful stem cell transplants. By addressing the limitations of transplant grafts, Jasper Therapeutics seeks to increase the number of patients who can benefit from both allogeneic and autologous gene-edited hematopoietic stem cell therapies.
Adverum Biotechnologies
Post in 2024
Adverum Biotechnologies is a clinical-stage gene therapy company focused on developing innovative treatments for ocular and rare diseases. The company's pipeline includes several product candidates, notably ADVM-022, which targets wet age-related macular degeneration through a single intravitreal injection designed to deliver long-lasting therapeutic effects. Other candidates include ADVM-043 for alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency and ADVM-053 for hereditary angioedema. Adverum collaborates with Editas Medicine to utilize its proprietary AAV vectors for gene editing in inherited retinal diseases, and with Regeneron Pharmaceuticals for developing various ocular therapies. Founded in 2006 and headquartered in Redwood City, California, Adverum aims to establish gene therapy as a new standard of care, aspiring to restore vision and prevent blindness in affected patients.
Syros Pharmaceuticals
Post in 2023
Syros Pharmaceuticals is a life sciences company that is focused on treating disease by mapping gene regulatory circuits and modulating the factors that regulate gene expression. Syros has pioneered world-leading gene control research and drug discovery capabilities with a proven ability to integrate disease biology and genomic data--a proficiency that is not well represented in pharmaceutical R&D. Central to the Syros approach is a proprietary platform of carefully integrated assay technologies, bioinformatics, and biologic insights developed by members of Syros' senior leadership. While this scientific approach has applications in many therapeutic areas, Syros has demonstrated success initially in oncology, where it may help address numerous unmet medical needs.
Seismic Therapeutic
Series B in 2023
Seismic Therapeutic is a biotechnology company focused on accelerating immunology drug development through the integration of machine learning in the biologics discovery process. Its IMPACT™ platform addresses key challenges in biologics discovery by combining structural biology, protein engineering, and translational immunology. This innovative approach aims to create optimized therapies more efficiently, ultimately benefiting patients with autoimmune diseases and disorders linked to adaptive immune system dysregulation. With a robust pipeline of biologics, Seismic Therapeutic is committed to enhancing the speed and efficacy of drug development in the field of immunology.
OrsoBio
Series A in 2023
OrsoBio is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing therapies for severe metabolic disorders, including obesity and related conditions such as type 2 diabetes and severe dyslipidemia. The company aims to restore energy homeostasis in patients by targeting pathways that maintain energy balance, thereby addressing the underlying causes of these disorders. OrsoBio's commitment to innovation seeks to revolutionize treatment options for individuals suffering from metabolic dysfunctions, including lipodystrophies and other obesity-associated complications. Through its research and development efforts, OrsoBio strives to enhance patients' energy metabolism and improve their overall health outcomes.
Omniox
Series A in 2023
Omniox is a biopharmaceutical company developing new medicines for hypoxic diseases. Hypoxia, defined as insufficient levels of oxygen in tissues, is known to trigger or impact a range of serious illnesses and conditions including many cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and trauma. At the center of Omniox’ work is a protein-based platform technology (H-NOX), that is engineered to reverse hypoxic disease states by delivering oxygen or nitric oxide preferentially to hypoxic tissues.
Tentarix Biotherapeutics
Series B in 2023
Tentarix creates innovative protein therapeutics with uniquely combined bioactivities that leverage synthetic biology. The company develops a protein engineering platform designed for multispecific therapies.
Abcuro
Series B in 2023
Abcuro, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing immunotherapies for the treatment of autoimmunity and cancer. Based in Newton, Massachusetts, Abcuro creates therapeutic antibodies targeting novel mechanisms related to these diseases. The company utilizes advanced bioinformatics to analyze transcription data from human diseases, which aids in the identification of new therapeutic targets. Through ex-vivo validation in diseased tissues, Abcuro seeks to uncover innovative methods to modulate key components of the immune system. Established in 2015, Abcuro aims to enhance treatment strategies in the healthcare industry by offering effective solutions for complex immunological conditions.
Gossamer Bio
Post in 2023
Gossamer Bio is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Diego that focuses on the discovery and development of innovative therapeutic products for unmet medical needs. Founded by former executives from Receptos, the company aims to leverage a strong in-licensing strategy and a team with extensive experience in immunology, inflammation, fibrosis, and oncology. Gossamer Bio's pipeline includes several promising candidates: Seralutinib, which targets pulmonary arterial hypertension; GB004, aimed at treating inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease; GB1275, designed for various oncology indications; and GB001, intended for moderate-to-severe eosinophilic asthma. Through these efforts, Gossamer Bio seeks to improve patient outcomes in critical therapeutic areas.
Septerna
Series B in 2023
Septerna is a biotechnology company focused on discovering and advancing novel small-molecule medicines that target G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). The company aims to improve patient outcomes by integrating innovative drug discovery technologies with GPCR drug targets. Utilizing its Native Complex platform, Septerna facilitates industrial-scale drug discovery through advanced screening technologies and structure-based drug design. This approach enables medical researchers to efficiently identify treatments for a variety of diseases.
Upstream Bio
Series B in 2023
Upstream Bio is a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to developing antibody therapies for inflammatory diseases, particularly severe asthma and other respiratory disorders. The company's lead candidate, verekitug, is a monoclonal antibody that acts as an antagonist to the Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin (TSLP) receptor. TSLP is a key cytokine that drives inflammatory responses and is strategically positioned upstream of various signaling pathways influencing immune cells. Upstream Bio aims to address unmet medical needs in the treatment of severe respiratory conditions by leveraging this validated target to create effective therapies.
Lyra Therapeutics
Post in 2023
Lyra Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage therapeutics company focused on the development and commercialization of novel integrated drug and delivery solutions for the localized treatment of patients with ear, nose and throat diseases. The company’s proprietary technology platform, XTreo, is designed to precisely and consistently deliver medicines directly to the affected tissue for sustained periods with a single administration. The company’s initial product candidates, LYR-210 and LYR-220, are bioresorbable polymeric matrices designed to be administered in a brief, non-invasive, in-office procedure and intended to deliver up to six months of continuous drug therapy to the sinonasal passages for the treatment of CRS. The therapeutic embedded within LYR-210 and LYR-220 is mometasone furoate, which is the active ingredient in various FDA-approved drugs and has a well-established efficacy and safety profile.
ElevateBio
Series D in 2023
ElevateBio, LLC is a holding company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on the development of cell and gene-based therapies for treating cancer and viral infections. Founded in 2017 by Vikas Sinha, Mitchell Finer, and David Hallal, ElevateBio operates a portfolio of companies dedicated to creating life-changing medicines. The company collaborates with leading scientists and innovators to build this portfolio and has established a centralized facility that streamlines the transition from research and development to the commercialization of these therapies. This integrated approach enhances efficiency and accelerates the availability of medical products aimed at addressing severe diseases.
OnKure Therapeutics
Series C in 2023
OnKure Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to developing innovative cancer therapies through the discovery of precision medicines that target biologically validated drivers of cancer. The company focuses on less toxic kinase inhibitor drugs, particularly selective inhibitors of histone deacetylases (HDACs). Its lead candidate, OKI-179, has demonstrated significant and safe tumor growth reduction in pre-clinical models for both hematological and solid tumors, either alone or in combination with other targeted therapies. Additionally, OnKure is advancing another candidate, OKI-422, into pre-clinical toxicology studies. The company's pipeline includes tumor-agnostic therapies that aim to enhance treatment efficacy and tolerability by directly targeting malignant cells and optimizing the tumor microenvironment for improved checkpoint inhibition.
Cargo Therapeutics
Series A in 2023
Cargo Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing next-generation CAR T-cell therapies aimed at overcoming cancer treatment resistance and improving patient access to potentially curative options. The company aims to enhance treatment outcomes by addressing the limitations of existing therapies, which currently provide curative benefits to less than half of cancer patients. Its lead program, CRG-022, is a novel CAR T-cell product candidate that targets CD22, a tumor antigen prevalent in many B-cell malignancies. By tackling issues such as limited durability, safety concerns, and supply chain obstacles, Cargo Therapeutics is committed to advancing innovative solutions that make effective cancer treatments more accessible to patients.
Abivax
Post in 2023
Abivax is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in France that develops therapeutics aimed at harnessing the body's natural immune response to treat autoimmune diseases, viral infections, and cancer. The company is currently evaluating its drug candidate, obefazimod, in Phase 3 clinical trials for the treatment of adults with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis. Abivax focuses on addressing significant unmet medical needs in chronic inflammatory diseases, particularly inflammatory bowel diseases, which include ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Through its innovative drug development platforms, Abivax aims to provide novel and effective treatment options for patients suffering from these conditions.
Palvella Therapeutics
Series D in 2023
Palvella Therapeutics, based in Wayne, Pennsylvania, is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company established in 2015. It focuses on developing and commercializing targeted therapies for serious and rare genetic skin diseases, specifically genodermatoses. The company's lead product, QTORIN, is a specialized anhydrous gel designed to deliver active ingredients effectively into the skin, addressing the underlying causes of various dermatological conditions. Palvella's pipeline includes candidates aimed at treating microcystic lymphatic malformations and cutaneous venous malformations, utilizing its proprietary QTORIN platform to offer innovative solutions for underserved patient populations.
Enlaza Therapeutics
Venture Round in 2022
Enlaza Therapeutics is a biotechnology research company founded in 2020 and based in La Jolla, California. The company focuses on developing novel protein therapeutics aimed at providing more effective and safer treatment options for patients. Utilizing advanced synthetic biology technology, Enlaza's platform enables site-specific covalent coupling driven by drug binding. This innovative approach allows for the creation of first-in-class covalent biologics, which are designed to offer enhanced efficacy and improved safety profiles compared to existing treatments.
immatics biotechnologies
Post in 2022
immatics is a biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery of true targets for cancer immunotherapies with the development of the right T cell receptors. The company's customized Adoptive Cell Therapies (ACTengine) and antibody-like TCR Bispecifics are the two main product classes in the pipeline (TCER). With a focus on particularly difficult-to-treat solid malignancies, each therapy modality has unique characteristics to create the desired therapeutic impact for patients at various disease stages and with various types of tumors. immatics biotechnologies was established in 2000 by Hans Rammensee, Harpreet Singh, and Steffen Walter in Tübingen, Baden-Wurttemberg.
Acelyrin
Series C in 2022
ACELYRIN is a biopharma company focused on providing patients life-changing new treatment options by identifying, acquiring, and accelerating the development and commercialization of promising drug candidates and by leveraging its expertise to rapidly advance these medicines to patients.
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. Since its incorporation in 2017, Autobahn has aimed to address significant unmet needs in neuropsychiatry and neuroimmunology through its innovative brain-targeting chemistry platform. The company's leading candidate, ABX-002, is a thyroid hormone receptor beta agonist being investigated as a potential treatment for multiple sclerosis and adrenomyeloneuropathy, as well as an adjunctive therapy for major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder depression. Autobahn Therapeutics emphasizes precision tuning of CNS exposure, targeting validated clinical and biological markers to enhance therapeutic opportunities and patient outcomes.
Delfi Diagnostics
Series B in 2022
Delfi Diagnostics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Baltimore, Maryland, focused on the early detection of cancer through innovative blood tests. Founded in 2019, the company utilizes artificial intelligence and genome sequencing to identify unique patterns of DNA fragmentation in patients' blood. By employing machine learning techniques, Delfi Diagnostics develops high-precision, non-invasive tests that aim to detect cancer at a stage when it is most treatable. Their technology enables healthcare professionals to recognize previously unrecognized cancer-associated cell-free DNA fragments, facilitating timely and effective treatment options for patients.
MiroBio
Series B in 2022
MiroBio's platform is based on ground-breaking research by their scientific founders at the University of Oxford delineating how immune cells communicate and how they are activated. These insights have enabled MiroBio to create antibodies that can leverage natural signalling mechanisms to restore immune system balance and control.
Scholar Rock
Post in 2022
Scholar Rock is a biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing innovative therapies that target dysregulated growth factors within disease microenvironments. Founded in 2012 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company employs a proprietary platform to create monoclonal antibodies that selectively modulate the activation of these signaling proteins. This approach aims to avoid traditional challenges associated with growth factor inhibition while facilitating efficient drug development. Scholar Rock's lead product, SRK-015, is designed as a first-in-class inhibitor of myostatin activation, targeting conditions such as spinal muscular atrophy. The company's pipeline includes additional candidates, such as SRK-181, which inhibits latent transforming growth factor beta-1 for cancer treatment. Scholar Rock's research focuses on serious diseases, including neuromuscular disorders, cancer, fibrosis, and autoimmune diseases, reflecting its commitment to transforming patient outcomes through targeted therapies.
Mineralys Therapeutics
Series B in 2022
Mineralys Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company that provides hypertension treatment. They also bring a targeted approach to the management of hypertension.
ImmunOs Therapeutics
Series B in 2022
ImmunOs Therapeutics AG is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing next generation and novel human immunomodulatory proteins with a role in both innate and adaptive immunity.Their mission is to develop the next generation of novel therapeutics that will improve the lives of patients with serious disease.
Upstream Bio
Series A in 2022
Upstream Bio is a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to developing antibody therapies for inflammatory diseases, particularly severe asthma and other respiratory disorders. The company's lead candidate, verekitug, is a monoclonal antibody that acts as an antagonist to the Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin (TSLP) receptor. TSLP is a key cytokine that drives inflammatory responses and is strategically positioned upstream of various signaling pathways influencing immune cells. Upstream Bio aims to address unmet medical needs in the treatment of severe respiratory conditions by leveraging this validated target to create effective therapies.
Lyra Therapeutics
Post in 2022
Lyra Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage therapeutics company focused on the development and commercialization of novel integrated drug and delivery solutions for the localized treatment of patients with ear, nose and throat diseases. The company’s proprietary technology platform, XTreo, is designed to precisely and consistently deliver medicines directly to the affected tissue for sustained periods with a single administration. The company’s initial product candidates, LYR-210 and LYR-220, are bioresorbable polymeric matrices designed to be administered in a brief, non-invasive, in-office procedure and intended to deliver up to six months of continuous drug therapy to the sinonasal passages for the treatment of CRS. The therapeutic embedded within LYR-210 and LYR-220 is mometasone furoate, which is the active ingredient in various FDA-approved drugs and has a well-established efficacy and safety profile.
Dewpoint Therapeutics
Series C in 2022
Dewpoint Therapeutics is a Boston-based biotech company focused on the research and development of treatments targeting biomolecular condensates to address various diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and immunological conditions. Founded in 2018, the company employs an innovative drug platform that utilizes machine-learning-based image analysis for visualizing condensates. This technology supports an engine of engineered cell lines designed to track and mitigate harmful protein sequestration. By leveraging its proprietary platform, Dewpoint seeks to facilitate drug discovery across a wide range of medical indications and collaborates with leading academic and pharmaceutical partners to enhance the accessibility of new therapies for unmet healthcare needs.
Septerna
Series A in 2022
Septerna is a biotechnology company focused on discovering and advancing novel small-molecule medicines that target G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). The company aims to improve patient outcomes by integrating innovative drug discovery technologies with GPCR drug targets. Utilizing its Native Complex platform, Septerna facilitates industrial-scale drug discovery through advanced screening technologies and structure-based drug design. This approach enables medical researchers to efficiently identify treatments for a variety of diseases.
Simcha Therapeutics
Series B in 2022
Simcha Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company developing engineered cytokine immunotherapy for cancer. The company uses directed evolution to engineer novel cytokines designed to unlock the precision and power of the immune system. Simcha’s lead program, ST-067, is a designer IL-18 cytokine that has shown potent antitumor effects in animal models, both as a monotherapy and when combined with anti-PD-1 checkpoint inhibitors, as described in Nature in June 2020. It was founded in 2018 and is headquartered in New Haven, Connecticut, USA.
SanReno Therapeutics
Funding Round in 2021
SanReno Therapeutics specializes in the development, manufacturing, and commercialization of therapies for kidney diseases in several regions including the People's Republic of China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and Singapore. Established through a joint venture involving Chinook Therapeutics, Frazier Healthcare Partners, and Pivotal bioVenture Partners China, the company is dedicated to researching and producing innovative biotech solutions aimed at improving the quality of life for patients suffering from kidney-related conditions.
Ablaze Pharmaceuticals
Series A in 2021
Ablaze Pharmaceuticals is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing targeted radiotherapy (TRT) treatments for cancer patients. The company aims to introduce innovative TRT products to the Chinese market, leveraging the founders' extensive experience and networks in cross-border product development and deal-making. By focusing on advanced therapeutic solutions, Ablaze Pharmaceuticals seeks to improve the outcomes and quality of life for cancer patients in China.
Acelyrin
Series B in 2021
ACELYRIN is a biopharma company focused on providing patients life-changing new treatment options by identifying, acquiring, and accelerating the development and commercialization of promising drug candidates and by leveraging its expertise to rapidly advance these medicines to patients.
Tentarix Biotherapeutics
Series A in 2021
Tentarix creates innovative protein therapeutics with uniquely combined bioactivities that leverage synthetic biology. The company develops a protein engineering platform designed for multispecific therapies.
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.
Obsidian Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Obsidian Therapeutics is a developer of a next-generation cell and gene therapies created to extend adoptive immunotherapy to every patient with cancer.The company's next-generation cell and gene therapies with pharmacologic operating systems provide exquisite control of protein activity in cells and create adoptive cell therapies with new functions that are under control of the treating physician using simple, safe, orally-active, marketed drugs, enabling patients to improve on the current generation of cell therapies.
HilleVax
Venture Round in 2021
HilleVax is a biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the development and commercialization of novel vaccines. HilleVax was founded in 2021 and was headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts.
Alamar Biosciences
Series B in 2021
Alamar Biosciences, founded in 2018 and based in Fremont, California, specializes in developing advanced technologies for the early detection and treatment of cancer and other diseases. The company focuses on a precision proteomics platform that enhances protein analysis and the diagnosis of various diseases through innovative antibody technologies. By facilitating the discovery of new biomarkers, Alamar aims to empower healthcare providers to identify diseases at an early stage, thereby improving potential treatment outcomes and patient care.
Neurogastrx
Series B in 2021
Neurogastrx, Inc. is a venture-stage biopharmaceutical company developing products for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders.
Tango Therapeutics
Post in 2021
Tango Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on developing innovative cancer therapies through the principle of synthetic lethality. Established in 2014, the company aims to discover and target specific driver genes involved in cancer progression. Its research concentrates on three main areas: counteracting the loss of tumor suppressor genes, reversing cancer cells' ability to evade the immune system, and identifying effective drug combinations that outperform single-agent therapies. Tango's pipeline includes TNG908, a selective inhibitor of PRMT5 designed for cancer cells with an MTAP deletion, alongside other discovery programs like TNG462, TNG348, and TNG260, which target various cancer types with limited treatment options.
Pepgen
Venture Round in 2021
PepGen is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Oxford, United Kingdom, focused on advancing nucleic acid therapeutics, particularly antisense oligonucleotides. Founded in 2018, the company aims to enhance the delivery and efficacy of these therapies through its proprietary Enhanced Delivery Oligonucleotide (EDO) platform. This innovative platform utilizes engineered peptides designed to improve tissue penetration, cellular uptake, and nuclear delivery of oligonucleotides. PepGen's technology has shown promise in preclinical studies, demonstrating the ability to transport therapeutics effectively into various target tissues, including smooth, skeletal, and cardiac muscle, as well as the central nervous system. The company's mission is to unlock the full potential of nucleic acid therapeutics to transform the treatment landscape for severe neuromuscular and neurological diseases.
Prime Medicine
Series B in 2021
Prime Medicine is a biotechnology company focused on developing genetic therapies using its proprietary Prime Editing technology. This next-generation gene editing method allows for precise "search and replace" modifications in the genome, aiming to restore normal genetic function and address the underlying causes of various diseases. By targeting a broad spectrum of conditions with significant unmet medical needs, Prime Medicine seeks to revolutionize the field of genetic medicine through effective and efficient therapeutic solutions.
RayzeBio
Series C in 2021
RayzeBio, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in San Diego, California, founded in 2020. It specializes in developing tumor-targeted small molecule medicines that utilize the therapeutic potential of radioisotopes, particularly Actinium-225, an alpha-emitting radioisotope aimed at treating solid tumors. RayzeBio is focused on enhancing cancer treatment outcomes by creating a robust pipeline of radiopharmaceutical candidates targeting validated oncology drug targets. The company's portfolio includes a range of drug candidates at various stages of development, from discovery to late-stage clinical programs, addressing significant market opportunities in the field of cancer therapeutics.
NiKang Therapeutics
Series C in 2021
NiKang Therapeutics is an early-stage biotech company focused on discovering and developing innovative small molecule oncology medicines to help patients with unmet medical needs. Its discovery approach is informed by target structure biology and capitalizes on structure-based drug design enabling a rapid and efficient discovery and development of proprietary drug candidates with the most desirable pharmacological features into clinical studies.
Janux Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Janux Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative immunotherapies aimed at generating immune responses to combat tumors while preserving healthy tissue. Utilizing its proprietary tumor-activated T Cell Engager platform technology, Janux targets all three stages of the anti-tumor immune response. The company's approach is designed to enhance the efficacy of cancer treatments by specifically engaging the immune system to identify and eliminate cancer cells.
Arcellx
Series C in 2021
Arcellx is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative cell therapies for patients with cancer and other incurable diseases. The company aims to enhance the safety, effectiveness, and accessibility of these therapies. Its lead product candidate, CART-ddBCMA, targets relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma and is currently undergoing a Phase 1 clinical study. This therapy has received multiple designations from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, including Fast Track and Orphan Drug status. Additionally, Arcellx is advancing its controllable CAR-T therapy, ARC-SparX, through two clinical programs aimed at treating relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma and acute myeloid leukemia.
Mineralys Therapeutics
Series A in 2021
Mineralys Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company that provides hypertension treatment. They also bring a targeted approach to the management of hypertension.
Graphite Bio
Series B in 2021
Graphite Bio, Inc. is a clinical-stage gene editing company based in South San Francisco, California, that specializes in targeted DNA integration to develop innovative therapies for severe diseases. The company utilizes a precision gene editing approach to precisely correct genetic mutations, replace malfunctioning genes, and insert therapeutic genetic sequences at specific locations within the genome. Its technology aims to transform treatment paradigms by enabling the targeted integration of genetic payloads, which could potentially cure a range of serious and life-threatening conditions. Graphite Bio was formerly known as Integral Medicines, Inc. before rebranding in August 2020, and it was incorporated in 2019.
ElevateBio
Series C in 2021
ElevateBio, LLC is a holding company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on the development of cell and gene-based therapies for treating cancer and viral infections. Founded in 2017 by Vikas Sinha, Mitchell Finer, and David Hallal, ElevateBio operates a portfolio of companies dedicated to creating life-changing medicines. The company collaborates with leading scientists and innovators to build this portfolio and has established a centralized facility that streamlines the transition from research and development to the commercialization of these therapies. This integrated approach enhances efficiency and accelerates the availability of medical products aimed at addressing severe diseases.
OnKure Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
OnKure Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to developing innovative cancer therapies through the discovery of precision medicines that target biologically validated drivers of cancer. The company focuses on less toxic kinase inhibitor drugs, particularly selective inhibitors of histone deacetylases (HDACs). Its lead candidate, OKI-179, has demonstrated significant and safe tumor growth reduction in pre-clinical models for both hematological and solid tumors, either alone or in combination with other targeted therapies. Additionally, OnKure is advancing another candidate, OKI-422, into pre-clinical toxicology studies. The company's pipeline includes tumor-agnostic therapies that aim to enhance treatment efficacy and tolerability by directly targeting malignant cells and optimizing the tumor microenvironment for improved checkpoint inhibition.
Egenesis
Series C in 2021
Egenesis Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on gene editing and genome engineering to create human transplantable organs, tissues, and cells. Established in 2015 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with an additional office in New York City, Egenesis aims to address the global organ shortage by developing solid organs and therapeutic cell transplantation solutions for various diseases. The company utilizes a gene editing platform that incorporates techniques such as single-cell cloning and somatic cell nuclear transfer, which are essential for creating human-compatible organ tissues and cells. Egenesis is particularly engaged in advancing programs related to kidney and islet cell transplantation, striving to provide alternative treatment options for patients with life-threatening conditions.
Viracta Therapeutics
Post in 2021
Viracta Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage drug development company based in Cardiff, California, focused on precision oncology for virus-associated malignancies. The company specializes in a viral activation therapy platform aimed at treating cancers linked to the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) and other virus-associated diseases. Its lead investigational drug, nanatinostat, is being evaluated in combination with the antiviral valganciclovir in Phase 2 clinical trials for EBV-positive lymphoma, including conditions such as post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder and plasmablastic lymphoma. Viracta is also exploring the application of this therapeutic approach in treating other EBV-related malignancies, such as nasopharyngeal carcinoma and gastric carcinoma. Founded in 2007 and previously known as HemaQuest Pharmaceuticals, Viracta Therapeutics continues to advance its mission to develop innovative treatments for serious viral-associated cancers.
Centessa Pharmaceuticals
Series A in 2021
Centessa Pharmaceuticals is a next-generation biopharmaceutical company that aims to reshape the traditional drug development process. The company applies an asset-centric R&D model at scale to advance a portfolio of highly validated programs led by industry-leading teams. Each program is developed by a Centessa Subsidiary and supported by a centralized infrastructure and the Centessa management team.
Pipeline Therapeutics
Series C in 2021
Pipeline Therapeutics is a developer of regenerative therapies designed to promote functional recovery of neurological diseases. The company's therapies leverage the natural repair process in several different nervous system cell types to target diseases such as multiple sclerosis, providing patients with a treatment to repair damage to the nervous system.
Notch Therapeutics
Series A in 2021
Notch Therapeutics Inc. is an immune cell therapy company focused on developing gene-edited allogenic T cell therapies for cancer treatment. Based in Toronto, Canada, the company utilizes a proprietary platform for induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology that allows for precision control of Notch signaling, which is essential for T cell development. This innovative approach addresses critical limitations in cell therapy development, enabling the design and manufacture of a consistent and limitless supply of therapeutic T cells. Notch Therapeutics aims to provide targeted treatments for conditions such as non-Hodgkin lymphoma, leukemia, and multiple myeloma, facilitating advancements in the treatment of complex disease systems. Established in 2018, the company is positioned at the forefront of next-generation cancer therapies.
IO Biotech
Series B in 2021
IO Biotech is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative immune therapies for cancer treatment. Utilizing its proprietary T-win technology platform, the company creates immune-modulating cancer vaccines that activate T cells specifically targeting immune-suppressive molecules. This approach aims to induce the immune system to disrupt multiple pathways responsible for tumor-induced immunosuppression. IO Biotech has a solid track record in advancing both preclinical and clinical compounds, with its two lead candidates targeting IDO and PD-L1 currently in clinical development, while several additional therapies remain in the preclinical stage.
Delfi Diagnostics
Series A in 2021
Delfi Diagnostics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Baltimore, Maryland, focused on the early detection of cancer through innovative blood tests. Founded in 2019, the company utilizes artificial intelligence and genome sequencing to identify unique patterns of DNA fragmentation in patients' blood. By employing machine learning techniques, Delfi Diagnostics develops high-precision, non-invasive tests that aim to detect cancer at a stage when it is most treatable. Their technology enables healthcare professionals to recognize previously unrecognized cancer-associated cell-free DNA fragments, facilitating timely and effective treatment options for patients.
Abcuro
Series A in 2021
Abcuro, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing immunotherapies for the treatment of autoimmunity and cancer. Based in Newton, Massachusetts, Abcuro creates therapeutic antibodies targeting novel mechanisms related to these diseases. The company utilizes advanced bioinformatics to analyze transcription data from human diseases, which aids in the identification of new therapeutic targets. Through ex-vivo validation in diseased tissues, Abcuro seeks to uncover innovative methods to modulate key components of the immune system. Established in 2015, Abcuro aims to enhance treatment strategies in the healthcare industry by offering effective solutions for complex immunological conditions.
RayzeBio
Series B in 2020
RayzeBio, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in San Diego, California, founded in 2020. It specializes in developing tumor-targeted small molecule medicines that utilize the therapeutic potential of radioisotopes, particularly Actinium-225, an alpha-emitting radioisotope aimed at treating solid tumors. RayzeBio is focused on enhancing cancer treatment outcomes by creating a robust pipeline of radiopharmaceutical candidates targeting validated oncology drug targets. The company's portfolio includes a range of drug candidates at various stages of development, from discovery to late-stage clinical programs, addressing significant market opportunities in the field of cancer therapeutics.
Syros Pharmaceuticals
Post in 2020
Syros Pharmaceuticals is a life sciences company that is focused on treating disease by mapping gene regulatory circuits and modulating the factors that regulate gene expression. Syros has pioneered world-leading gene control research and drug discovery capabilities with a proven ability to integrate disease biology and genomic data--a proficiency that is not well represented in pharmaceutical R&D. Central to the Syros approach is a proprietary platform of carefully integrated assay technologies, bioinformatics, and biologic insights developed by members of Syros' senior leadership. While this scientific approach has applications in many therapeutic areas, Syros has demonstrated success initially in oncology, where it may help address numerous unmet medical needs.
Elevation Oncology
Series B in 2020
Elevation Oncology, Inc. is a biotechnology company dedicated to developing precision medicines for patients with genomically defined cancers. The company focuses on creating targeted therapeutics that inhibit specific genetic alterations known to drive cancer progression. Its lead drug candidate, seribantumab, targets neuregulin-1 (NRG1) fusions, which are rare genomic alterations that can be treated through targeted HER3 inhibition. Currently, seribantumab is undergoing clinical testing in the Phase 2 CRESTONE study, which evaluates its efficacy in patients with solid tumors of any origin that harbor NRG1 fusions. Founded in 2019 and based in New York, Elevation Oncology aims to make genomic tests actionable by selectively developing drugs that address these specific alterations in cancer patients.
Decibel Therapeutics
Series D in 2020
Decibel Therapeutics is a developer of hearing disorder therapeutics intended to protect, repair and restore hearing. The company's therapeutics have provided insights into the link between hearing dysfunction and inner ear pathology and it has capabilities to encompass animal models, drug delivery to the inner ear, imaging, inner ear PK/PD modeling and measurement, bioinformatics, genetics and target identification, enabling patients to experience hearing loss therapies with different forms of hearing disorders for their recovery.
Primmune Therapeutics
Series A in 2020
Primmune Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in San Diego, California, focused on developing small molecule, orally administered toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) agonists for cancer immunotherapy. Founded in 2017, the company aims to stimulate innate immunity to enhance the effectiveness of adaptive cancer treatments, such as checkpoint inhibitors. Its TLR7 agonist is designed to activate the immune system by producing cytokines and chemokines that boost cellular responses and facilitate the activation of natural killer cells. This approach enables healthcare providers to target metastatic diseases more effectively and promotes B-cell proliferation and activation, ultimately improving overall response rates and treatment durability for patients.
RayzeBio
Series A in 2020
RayzeBio, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in San Diego, California, founded in 2020. It specializes in developing tumor-targeted small molecule medicines that utilize the therapeutic potential of radioisotopes, particularly Actinium-225, an alpha-emitting radioisotope aimed at treating solid tumors. RayzeBio is focused on enhancing cancer treatment outcomes by creating a robust pipeline of radiopharmaceutical candidates targeting validated oncology drug targets. The company's portfolio includes a range of drug candidates at various stages of development, from discovery to late-stage clinical programs, addressing significant market opportunities in the field of cancer therapeutics.
Flame Biosciences
Venture Round in 2020
Flame Biosciences, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in New York, dedicated to the research, development, and commercialization of innovative therapies targeting cancer and inflammatory diseases. The company is focused on creating transformative treatments, including FL-101, which addresses lung cancers associated with inflammation, and FL-201, aimed at reducing chronic inflammation in patients. Established in 2017, Flame Biosciences seeks to improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from debilitating and life-threatening conditions through its advanced therapeutic solutions.
Dewpoint Therapeutics
Series B in 2020
Dewpoint Therapeutics is a Boston-based biotech company focused on the research and development of treatments targeting biomolecular condensates to address various diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and immunological conditions. Founded in 2018, the company employs an innovative drug platform that utilizes machine-learning-based image analysis for visualizing condensates. This technology supports an engine of engineered cell lines designed to track and mitigate harmful protein sequestration. By leveraging its proprietary platform, Dewpoint seeks to facilitate drug discovery across a wide range of medical indications and collaborates with leading academic and pharmaceutical partners to enhance the accessibility of new therapies for unmet healthcare needs.
Palladio Biosciences
Series B in 2020
Palladio Bio is a clinical-stage company developing transformative medicines for orphan diseases of the kidney. The company specializes in the fields of biotechnology, pharmaceutical. and therapeutics. Its products are designed for renal disease, kidney disease, and polycystic kidney disease. The company was founded in 2015 and headquartered in Horsham, Pennsylvania.
Ionpath
Series B in 2020
IonPath, Inc., based in Menlo Park, California, specializes in multiplexed ion beam imaging services for pathology. Founded in 2014, the company has developed advanced ion beam imaging technology that allows for detailed analysis of tissue biopsies, including fresh, frozen, and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples. This technology goes beyond traditional light microscopy, providing a comprehensive understanding of the tissue microenvironment through highly multiplexed quantitative single-cell analysis. By enabling healthcare providers to obtain actionable insights, IonPath's services facilitate accurate cancer diagnoses and contribute to advancements in human health.
Graphite Bio
Series A in 2020
Graphite Bio, Inc. is a clinical-stage gene editing company based in South San Francisco, California, that specializes in targeted DNA integration to develop innovative therapies for severe diseases. The company utilizes a precision gene editing approach to precisely correct genetic mutations, replace malfunctioning genes, and insert therapeutic genetic sequences at specific locations within the genome. Its technology aims to transform treatment paradigms by enabling the targeted integration of genetic payloads, which could potentially cure a range of serious and life-threatening conditions. Graphite Bio was formerly known as Integral Medicines, Inc. before rebranding in August 2020, and it was incorporated in 2019.
Eledon Pharmaceuticals
Post in 2020
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.
Recursion Pharmaceuticals
Series D in 2020
Recursion Pharmaceuticals is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Salt Lake City, Utah, focused on transforming drug discovery through the integration of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, automation, and bioinformatics. Founded in 2013, the company utilizes a sophisticated drug discovery platform that includes various software solutions and robotic automation to enhance chemical compound selection, streamline experimental workflows, and evaluate drug efficacy. Key components of this platform involve tools for designing chemical compounds, planning complex experiments, and analyzing data to understand drug interactions and biological responses. By creating one of the largest proprietary biological and chemical datasets, Recursion aims to uncover new biological insights and expedite the development of innovative treatments, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Rain Oncology
Series B in 2020
Rain Oncology Inc. is a late-stage precision oncology company focused on developing therapies that target oncogenic drivers. The company employs a tumor-agnostic approach, selecting patients based on the underlying genetics of their tumors rather than their histological characteristics. Its leading product candidate, milademetan, is an oral small molecule inhibitor of MDM2, which plays a role in various cancers. In addition to milademetan, Rain Oncology is advancing a preclinical program aimed at inducing synthetic lethality in cancer cells through the inhibition of RAD52. This targeted strategy aims to improve treatment outcomes for patients who are genetically predisposed to benefit from these therapies.
Chinook Therapeutics
Post in 2020
Chinook Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Seattle, Washington, that specializes in developing precision medicines for kidney diseases. The company's lead program is atrasentan, an investigational endothelin receptor antagonist currently undergoing Phase III trials for IgA nephropathy and other glomerular diseases. Additionally, Chinook is evaluating BION-1301, an anti-APRIL monoclonal antibody, in a Phase Ib trial for IgA nephropathy. The company is also advancing CHK-336, a preclinical candidate targeting an undisclosed ultra-orphan kidney disease, along with research initiatives focused on other rare and severe chronic kidney conditions, including polycystic kidney disease. Chinook Therapeutics aims to address significant unmet medical needs in the field of nephrology through its innovative product pipeline.
Cogent Biosciences
Post in 2020
Cogent Biosciences is a biotechnology company focused on developing precision therapies for genetically defined diseases, utilizing proprietary T-cell engineering technology alongside tumor-targeting antibodies to harness the body’s immune system in the fight against cancer. The company designs targeted treatments aimed at addressing the underlying causes of diseases, thereby improving patient outcomes. One of its key programs, CGT9486, is a selective tyrosine kinase inhibitor that specifically targets the KIT D816V mutation and other mutations in KIT exon 17. This mutation is predominantly linked to Systemic Mastocytosis, a severe condition resulting from the uncontrolled growth of mast cells, and is also associated with advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumors. Cogent Biosciences is advancing its lead program, which is expected to enter Phase I clinical trials to evaluate safety and efficacy.
Bolt Biotherapeutics
Series C in 2020
Bolt Biotherapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative immunotherapy solutions for cancer treatment. The company employs its proprietary Boltbody platform, which features immune-stimulating antibody conjugates (ISAC) that link tumor-targeting antibodies with powerful immune stimulants. This approach aims to activate the immune system against tumors, effectively transforming cold tumors into immunologically active ones. Bolt Biotherapeutics is advancing several candidates in its pipeline, including BDC-1001, a monotherapy targeting HER2-expressing solid tumors, and BDC-3042, among others. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Redwood City, California, the company leverages its expertise in myeloid biology and cancer drug development to create targeted therapies that harness both innate and adaptive immune responses.
Autobahn Labs
Seed Round in 2020
Autobahn Labs is a biotechnology company based in Palo Alto, California, focused on accelerating the development of novel therapeutics. Founded in 2018, it operates as a collaboration between an investor syndicate led by Samsara BioCapital and Evotec. The company identifies promising early-stage academic research projects and leverages Evotec's expertise in drug discovery and development, combined with Samsara's investment approach, to enhance patient health. Autobahn Labs provides acceleration services that include a dedicated team with deep scientific and operational knowledge, industrialized drug discovery capabilities, and funding to help research institutions advance their projects to preclinical drug candidates. Through these efforts, Autobahn Labs aims to transform innovative science into effective therapies for patients.
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. Since its incorporation in 2017, Autobahn has aimed to address significant unmet needs in neuropsychiatry and neuroimmunology through its innovative brain-targeting chemistry platform. The company's leading candidate, ABX-002, is a thyroid hormone receptor beta agonist being investigated as a potential treatment for multiple sclerosis and adrenomyeloneuropathy, as well as an adjunctive therapy for major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder depression. Autobahn Therapeutics emphasizes precision tuning of CNS exposure, targeting validated clinical and biological markers to enhance therapeutic opportunities and patient outcomes.
Fulcrum Therapeutics
Post in 2020
Fulcrum Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on developing therapies for patients with rare genetic diseases. The company is dedicated to addressing unmet medical needs, particularly in the realm of genetically defined conditions. Its lead product candidate, losmapimod, is a small molecule currently undergoing Phase 2b clinical trials for the treatment of facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD), a progressive muscle-wasting disorder. Additionally, Fulcrum is developing FTX-6058, aimed at increasing fetal hemoglobin levels in patients with sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia. The company also engages in research to identify drug targets for various conditions, including Duchenne muscular dystrophy and neurological diseases. Fulcrum Therapeutics has established collaborations with Acceleron Pharma Inc. and MyoKardia, Inc. to explore new therapeutic avenues in pulmonary disease and genetic cardiomyopathies, respectively. Founded in 2015, Fulcrum aims to enhance the quality of life for patients suffering from these challenging disorders.
Mereo Biopharma
Post in 2020
Mereo is based in London and was founded in March 2015 to fund and develop novel, innovative specialist focused products from large pharmaceutical or biotechnology companies. Pharmaceutical companies face increasingly difficult choices in the allocation of internal resources to their drug development programs. With significant P&L constraints and rich pipelines it has become increasingly difficult for many companies to fully fund and advance development all of their drug candidates, especially beyond Phase 2. Mereo has been formed to take advantage of the global pharmaceutical industry's drive for creative ways to progress their clinical development pipelines. Mereo has acquired an initial mid-late stage portfolio of three exceptionally well characterised novel products for the treatment of diseases with considerable unmet medical need from Novartis Pharmaceuticals. Each of these programmes has a comprehensive dataset for both pre-clinical and proof-of-concept clinical studies. Additional product opportunities are under evaluation. Mereo's focus is the development of innovative medicines that have the potential to significantly transform the lives of patients suffering from rare and other specialised conditions around the world. To do this, the Company depends on the combination of its team's expertise in selecting and acquiring product opportunities, creating value in the development pipeline and structuring creative transactions. Mereo's internal expertise is complemented by a unique partnership with a leading global CRO, ICON. Mereo combines the operational discipline and efficiency of a small company with the financial resources to conduct comprehensive clinical studies. Mereo will rapidly progress each of the products through further value inflection points before partnering or divesting its products. The Company also has the option to directly commercialise products, for example in orphan disease indications.
Palvella Therapeutics
Series C in 2020
Palvella Therapeutics, based in Wayne, Pennsylvania, is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company established in 2015. It focuses on developing and commercializing targeted therapies for serious and rare genetic skin diseases, specifically genodermatoses. The company's lead product, QTORIN, is a specialized anhydrous gel designed to deliver active ingredients effectively into the skin, addressing the underlying causes of various dermatological conditions. Palvella's pipeline includes candidates aimed at treating microcystic lymphatic malformations and cutaneous venous malformations, utilizing its proprietary QTORIN platform to offer innovative solutions for underserved patient populations.
ElevateBio
Series B in 2020
ElevateBio, LLC is a holding company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on the development of cell and gene-based therapies for treating cancer and viral infections. Founded in 2017 by Vikas Sinha, Mitchell Finer, and David Hallal, ElevateBio operates a portfolio of companies dedicated to creating life-changing medicines. The company collaborates with leading scientists and innovators to build this portfolio and has established a centralized facility that streamlines the transition from research and development to the commercialization of these therapies. This integrated approach enhances efficiency and accelerates the availability of medical products aimed at addressing severe diseases.
Fluent BioSciences
Series A in 2020
Fluent BioSciences is a life science company focused on single-cell technology, specializing in molecular analysis of cells without the need for complex microfluidic instrumentation. Its proprietary platform, Pre-Templated Instant Partitions (PIPseqTM), facilitates the rapid self-assembly of individual cells or molecules into millions of uniform partitions, allowing for sensitive and unbiased preparation of proteins and nucleic acids for sequencing applications. This innovative technology enhances accessibility to single-cell, molecule, and protein analysis, thereby broadening market access for researchers in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and academic institutions.
Liquidia Technologies
Post in 2019
Liquidia Technologies is a clinical biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing and commercializing therapeutics that address unmet patient needs, primarily through its proprietary PRINT technology. This particle engineering platform allows for the precise production of uniform drug particles, enhancing the safety and efficacy of various treatments. The company is currently advancing two key product candidates: LIQ861, aimed at treating pulmonary arterial hypertension, and LIQ865, designed for managing local post-operative pain. In addition to its internal pipeline, Liquidia collaborates with leading pharmaceutical companies to leverage its PRINT technology across diverse therapeutic areas and drug types. One of its marketed products is YUTREPIA, an inhalation powder for treating pulmonary arterial hypertension.
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