Sofinnova Partners is a venture capital firm founded in 1972 and headquartered in Paris, France. The firm specializes in investing in the life sciences sector, focusing on biopharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical devices, and industrial biotechnology. With over €2 billion in assets dedicated to life science investments, Sofinnova Partners partners with entrepreneurs at various stages, from seed to later-stage companies, including start-ups and corporate spin-offs. The firm actively seeks to take a lead role in financing, often becoming the first institutional investor in Series A rounds. It maintains an engaged presence in its portfolio companies by sitting on their boards and supporting them through to exit, thereby fostering transformative innovations that have the potential to make a significant positive impact on society.
Forth Therapeutics is a pioneering precision therapeutics that target the underlying mechanisms driving fibrosis.
Genespire
Series B in 2024
Genespire is a biotechnology company dedicated to advancing gene therapies for individuals suffering from genetic disorders, with a specific emphasis on primary immunodeficiencies and inherited metabolic diseases. The company specializes in developing innovative therapies that utilize integration-defective lentiviral vectors combined with gene editing techniques. This approach allows for the precise and effective insertion of therapeutic genes into blood cells, providing patients with a range of tailored treatment options suitable for their unique conditions. Genespire's mission is to transform the lives of patients affected by severe genetic diseases through cutting-edge therapeutic solutions.
Asceneuron
Series C in 2024
Asceneuron develops effective therapeutics for orphan tauopathies and Alzheimer’s disease. By focusing on areas of high unmet medical need, Asceneuron aspires to become a leading biotech company specialized in small molecule drug discovery for neurodegenerative diseases. Tauopathies are currently untreatable neurodegenerative diseases that rapidly progress towards debilitating conditions. The appearance of deposits of the microtubule-associated tau protein as e.g. neurofibrillary tangles in neurons of the brain is a common feature of tauopathies that is shared with Alzheimer’s disease. Neuronal tau deposits are known to be a major contributor to neurodegeneration and mutations in the tau gene are causative of the tauopathy fronto-temporal dementia and parkinsonism linked to chromosome 17 (FTDP-17). Due to increasing life expectancy, Alzheimer’s disease is viewed as one of the largest healthcare problems of this century, imposing a major economic burden on societies in the Western and developing world. Current treatment options provide limited benefits supporting the urgent need for more efficacious and better tolerated medicines that address symptomatic relief as well as disease progression.
MISSION Therapeutics
Venture Round in 2024
MISSION Therapeutics is a biotechnology company specializing in developing drugs that target the cellular process of deubiquitylation for the treatment of cancer and other diseases. Their focus is on developing small molecule drugs that selectively inhibit specific deubiquitylating enzymes (DUBs), which play crucial roles in regulating protein degradation and cellular processes. These drugs aim to intervene in disease mechanisms where DUB dysregulation is implicated, offering potential therapeutic benefits.
Mainstay Medical
Private Equity Round in 2024
Mainstay Medical is a global medical device company based in Dublin, Ireland, with operations in the United States and Australia. The company focuses on developing innovative therapies for individuals suffering from chronic low back pain, a condition that affects a significant portion of the population. Mainstay Medical has created a FDA-approved restorative treatment aimed at addressing mechanical chronic low back pain. This treatment is designed to help restore muscle control and enhance functionality in the lumbar spine, ultimately improving the quality of life for patients. By collaborating with scientists and clinical experts, Mainstay Medical strives to provide effective solutions for those in need of relief from debilitating pain.
Sensorion
Post in 2024
Sensorion is a biopharmaceutical company based in Montpellier, France, focused on developing innovative therapies for inner ear disorders, particularly hearing loss and vestibular deficits. The company's lead product, SENS-401, is currently in phase II clinical trials aimed at treating sudden sensorineural hearing loss. Additionally, Sensorion is advancing SENS-111, which is in phase II trials for acute unilateral vestibulopathy, and SENS-300, which is in the pre-clinical stage for addressing inner ear toxicity. The company also collaborates with Cochlear Limited to explore combination therapies for patients with cochlear implants. Founded in 2009, Sensorion is dedicated to conducting research and development to discover drugs that can restore and treat hearing loss, positioning itself as a key player in the field of otology.
GenSight Biologics
Post in 2024
GenSight Biologics S.A. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Paris, France, focused on developing gene therapy treatments for retinal degenerative diseases and neurodegenerative conditions affecting the central nervous system. Utilizing its core technology platforms—Mitochondrial Targeting Sequence and Optogenetics—the company aims to preserve and restore vision in patients with severe retinal disorders. Its lead product candidates include GS010, an AAV2-based gene therapy currently in Phase III trials for treating Leber hereditary optic neuropathy caused by mutations in the ND4 gene, and GS030, which is undergoing Phase I/II trials for retinitis pigmentosa and geographic atrophy in dry age-related macular degeneration. In addition to these, GenSight is advancing several products in preclinical stages targeting various ophthalmic and neurodegenerative diseases. Founded in 2012, the company is dedicated to innovative approaches that aim to prevent vision loss and improve the quality of life for affected patients.
DISCO Pharmaceuticals
Seed Round in 2024
DISCO Pharmaceuticals is a company focused on advancing cancer treatment through its innovative surfaceome mapping platform. This technology enables the identification of proteins and protein communities on the cancer cell surface at a large scale, providing detailed insights that traditional proteomics and genomic methods cannot offer. By unlocking the surfaceome of cancer cells, DISCO Pharmaceuticals aims to facilitate the development of cancer-selective therapies that enhance treatment efficacy while minimizing side effects for patients. The company's approach holds promise for improving patient care by enabling more targeted and effective therapeutic options in oncology.
GlycoEra
Series A in 2024
GlycoEra is a biotechnology research company focused on developing innovative therapeutics to address significant unmet medical needs in areas such as inflammatory diseases, autoimmune disorders, and immune-oncology. The company utilizes a proprietary platform to create first-in-class biologics that feature customized and highly homogeneous human glycans assembled onto glycoproteins in a site-specific manner. This approach enables healthcare companies to gain insights into the role of glycans in human health and disease, ultimately advancing the development of novel treatments.
Freya Biosciences
Series A in 2023
Freya Biosciences is a clinical-stage company focused on women's health, with operations in Copenhagen and Boston. It specializes in developing microbial immunotherapies aimed at addressing significant unmet medical needs across various conditions. The company utilizes a proprietary platform to engineer and manufacture live microbes, ensuring their safety and efficacy for human use. Through this innovative approach, Freya Biosciences seeks to create new treatment options for a range of diseases, striving to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare sector.
GenSight Biologics
Post in 2023
GenSight Biologics S.A. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Paris, France, focused on developing gene therapy treatments for retinal degenerative diseases and neurodegenerative conditions affecting the central nervous system. Utilizing its core technology platforms—Mitochondrial Targeting Sequence and Optogenetics—the company aims to preserve and restore vision in patients with severe retinal disorders. Its lead product candidates include GS010, an AAV2-based gene therapy currently in Phase III trials for treating Leber hereditary optic neuropathy caused by mutations in the ND4 gene, and GS030, which is undergoing Phase I/II trials for retinitis pigmentosa and geographic atrophy in dry age-related macular degeneration. In addition to these, GenSight is advancing several products in preclinical stages targeting various ophthalmic and neurodegenerative diseases. Founded in 2012, the company is dedicated to innovative approaches that aim to prevent vision loss and improve the quality of life for affected patients.
T-Therapeutics
Series A in 2023
T-Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company specializing in the development of engineered soluble biologics for oncological and immunological conditions. The company utilizes a proprietary T cell receptor (TCR) discovery platform, which is based on a highly humanized mouse model. This innovative approach allows T-Therapeutics to identify TCRs that target human antigens not obtainable from human samples. The TCRs bind specific pMHC targets on target cells, facilitating the recruitment of T cells to either attack cancer cells or modulate immune responses. By leveraging advanced techniques in mouse genome engineering, single cell genomics, machine learning, and structural biology, T-Therapeutics aims to enhance treatment options for patients suffering from chronic and infectious diseases while fostering a culture of creativity and collaboration within its operations.
Sitryx Therapeutics
Series A in 2023
Sitryx Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company founded in 2018 and headquartered in Oxford, United Kingdom. The company focuses on developing innovative disease-modifying therapeutics in the fields of immuno-oncology and immuno-inflammation by regulating cell metabolism. Sitryx aims to enhance immune cell functions to inhibit tumor growth and improve immune responses. Co-founded by leading scientists from the United States and Europe, the company has attracted significant investment, including $30 million in Series A funding from a consortium of specialist investors. Sitryx has established a diverse pipeline of projects at various stages of drug discovery, positioning itself at the forefront of immunometabolism research.
Sensorion
Post in 2023
Sensorion is a biopharmaceutical company based in Montpellier, France, focused on developing innovative therapies for inner ear disorders, particularly hearing loss and vestibular deficits. The company's lead product, SENS-401, is currently in phase II clinical trials aimed at treating sudden sensorineural hearing loss. Additionally, Sensorion is advancing SENS-111, which is in phase II trials for acute unilateral vestibulopathy, and SENS-300, which is in the pre-clinical stage for addressing inner ear toxicity. The company also collaborates with Cochlear Limited to explore combination therapies for patients with cochlear implants. Founded in 2009, Sensorion is dedicated to conducting research and development to discover drugs that can restore and treat hearing loss, positioning itself as a key player in the field of otology.
GenSight Biologics
Post in 2023
GenSight Biologics S.A. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Paris, France, focused on developing gene therapy treatments for retinal degenerative diseases and neurodegenerative conditions affecting the central nervous system. Utilizing its core technology platforms—Mitochondrial Targeting Sequence and Optogenetics—the company aims to preserve and restore vision in patients with severe retinal disorders. Its lead product candidates include GS010, an AAV2-based gene therapy currently in Phase III trials for treating Leber hereditary optic neuropathy caused by mutations in the ND4 gene, and GS030, which is undergoing Phase I/II trials for retinitis pigmentosa and geographic atrophy in dry age-related macular degeneration. In addition to these, GenSight is advancing several products in preclinical stages targeting various ophthalmic and neurodegenerative diseases. Founded in 2012, the company is dedicated to innovative approaches that aim to prevent vision loss and improve the quality of life for affected patients.
Crescendo Biologics
Venture Round in 2023
Crescendo Biologics is a new Cambridge-based company whose vision is to deliver next-generation antibody therapeutics based on novel class-leading platforms. The focus of the company is on developing platforms that will address key issues in generating high-affinity, soluble, human VH antibody fragments. These are the smallest fragments that retain antibody binding, and have many desirable properties as potential therapeutics. Crescendo will then utilise these platforms for product development of in-house targets or in partnership with other companies.
Tenpoint Therapeutics
Series A in 2023
Tenpoint Therapeutics is a biotechnology company dedicated to developing engineered cell-based therapies aimed at restoring vision for individuals with degenerative ocular diseases. The company's innovative platform focuses on creating treatments that can be delivered directly to the eye, eliminating the need for systemic administration. This targeted approach enhances the potential for effective intervention, allowing healthcare providers to significantly improve the quality of life for patients suffering from various eye conditions. Through its commitment to advancing vision-restoring technologies, Tenpoint Therapeutics is positioned to make a meaningful impact in the field of ocular health.
Alia Therapeutics
Seed Round in 2023
Alia Therapeutics focuses on developing advanced gene-editing medicines aimed at curing rare genetic diseases. The company employs innovative CRISPR-based genome editing tools to target and correct inborn genetic errors directly within patients' cells. By utilizing these unique therapeutic approaches, Alia Therapeutics seeks to address genetic disorders at their source, providing healthcare professionals with the means to modify genomes effectively. Additionally, the company emphasizes safe and efficient delivery mechanisms to ensure the targeted treatment of affected cells.
Mediar Therapeutics
Series A in 2023
Mediar Therapeutics is a pre-clinical stage biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on developing antibody-based therapeutics for the treatment of fibrosis. Founded in 2019, the company aims to provide innovative solutions by targeting key fibrotic mediator proteins that contribute to the development of fibrosis in chronically damaged organs. Through its research and development efforts, Mediar seeks to enable medical practitioners to halt and potentially reverse critical fibrosis and related conditions, addressing a significant unmet need in the field of fibrotic diseases.
Nuage Therapeutics
Seed Round in 2023
Nuage Therapeutics is a pharmaceutical company which utilizes chemical biology and biomolecular condensation to develop selective drugs that target proteins with disordered regions for challenging indications to improve patient’s life. The focus of the medication is to enhance selective inhibitors of intrinsically disordered proteins involved in challenging indications in order to meet unmet medical needs.
Noema Pharma
Series B in 2023
Noema Pharma AG is a biotechnology company based in Basel, Switzerland, founded in 2019. The company focuses on developing therapeutic products and therapies for orphan neurological disorders characterized by imbalanced neuronal networks. Its research and development efforts aim to address disabling symptoms in conditions affecting the nervous system, including Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, Trigeminal Neuralgia, and Tourette syndrome. By creating novel therapies, Noema Pharma seeks to improve the quality of life and patient outcomes for individuals suffering from these rare conditions.
Chroma Medicine
Series B in 2023
Chroma Medicine is a genomic medicine company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, founded in 2021. The company focuses on epigenetic editing, aiming to revolutionize the treatment of genetically driven diseases. By utilizing epigenetics, which is nature's inherent mechanism for regulating genes, Chroma Medicine develops programmable epigenetic editors that target specific genes and control chromatin conformation. This innovative approach combines a DNA binding domain with epigenetic effector domains, providing medical practitioners with a new class of therapeutics that offers enhanced control over gene expression.
Amolyt Pharma
Series C in 2023
Amolyt Pharma is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing peptide-based therapies for rare endocrine and metabolic disorders. The company's key programs include AZP-3601, a parathyroid hormone analog aimed at treating hypoparathyroidism by maintaining sustained calcium levels in the blood, and AZP-3404, a novel peptide designed to improve fat and glucose metabolism. By addressing severe insulin resistance and other critical metabolic conditions, Amolyt Pharma aims to provide effective treatment options for patients facing these rare disorders.
Mablink Bioscience
Series A in 2022
Mablink Bioscience is a biotechnology company specialized in the development of a new class of cancer drugs, called Antibody Drug Conjugate (ADC).
F2G
Private Equity Round in 2022
F2G Ltd is a biotechnology company based in Manchester, United Kingdom, that specializes in developing innovative therapies for serious fungal diseases. Established in 1998, F2G focuses on its F3 series of antifungal compounds, particularly targeting challenging fungi such as Aspergillus and other filamentous molds that pose significant health risks. The company leverages its proprietary genomics technology, MycoBank, to identify critical gene targets in fungi, facilitating the creation of effective antifungal agents. Since its initial funding in 2002, F2G has expanded its research and development capabilities, enabling it to advance its patented compounds and contribute to addressing life-threatening fungal infections that affect individuals with compromised immune systems.
Inspirna
Series D in 2022
Inspirna is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative drug candidates that target essential drivers of cancer. The company utilizes a microRNA-based target discovery platform to identify novel RNA dysregulated cancer drivers, which can be addressed by small molecules and biologics. Inspirna's clinical programs include first-in-class oral small molecules aimed at treating patients with RAS mutant colorectal cancer (RGX-202) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) (RGX-104), both currently in Phase 1b/2 trials. Through its research, Inspirna aims to provide effective treatment options that specifically target cancer metabolism and progression, offering potential advancements in cancer care.
HotSpot Therapeutics
Series C in 2021
HotSpot Therapeutics is a biotech startup established in 2017 and based in Boston, Massachusetts. The company specializes in developing allosteric therapies that target regulatory sites on proteins. Its innovative therapeutic platform is designed to identify hotspots and locate pathway treatments for a range of conditions, including cancer, metabolic disorders, and rare diseases. By leveraging a comprehensive database of hotspot structures and employing data science, HotSpot Therapeutics aims to enhance drug discovery and provide effective treatment options for patients with various health issues.
Home Biosciences
Seed Round in 2021
Home Biosciences is a European venture builder dedicated to biotech.
GlycoEra
Series A in 2021
GlycoEra is a biotechnology research company focused on developing innovative therapeutics to address significant unmet medical needs in areas such as inflammatory diseases, autoimmune disorders, and immune-oncology. The company utilizes a proprietary platform to create first-in-class biologics that feature customized and highly homogeneous human glycans assembled onto glycoproteins in a site-specific manner. This approach enables healthcare companies to gain insights into the role of glycans in human health and disease, ultimately advancing the development of novel treatments.
Nitrase Therapeutics
Series A in 2021
Nitrase Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical platform company focused on developing therapies targeting a newly identified class of enzymes known as Nitrases. Initially concentrating on Parkinson’s disease, the company aims to create drugs that may slow or halt the progression of this and other related neurodegenerative conditions. By leveraging its expertise in nitration, Nitrase Therapeutics seeks to explore the therapeutic potential of biochemical modifications of proteins, particularly through the identification of nitro-substrates and their involvement in various diseases. This approach positions the company to potentially expand its platform to address a broader range of medical conditions in the future.
Mozart Therapeutics
Series A in 2021
Mozart Therapeutics is a biotechnology startup dedicated to developing disease-modifying therapies for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. The company focuses on a novel regulatory CD8 T cell network to create innovative CD8 Treg modulators aimed at treating a range of autoimmune conditions. By targeting a specific subset of T-lymphocytes, Mozart aims to restore long-term immune balance and prevent the progression of damage caused by autoreactive immune responses. Its pipeline includes first-in-class CD8 Treg modulators designed to delay the onset of autoimmune diseases and improve patient outcomes through advanced treatment options.
Leucid Bio
Series A in 2021
Leucid Bio is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative cell therapies for patients with refractory cancers, particularly solid tumors. Founded to leverage two decades of research from King's College London in the CAR-T field, Leucid Bio is guided by a seasoned management team possessing both scientific and commercial expertise. The company has a strong partnership with King's College, granting it exclusive access to a wealth of scientific, clinical, and manufacturing resources, particularly from Dr. Maher and his team of immuno-oncology specialists. By specializing in advanced CAR T-cell therapies, Leucid Bio aims to enhance treatment outcomes and provide durable responses for patients who have limited or no treatment options available.
CinCor Pharma
Series B in 2021
CinCor Pharma, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Cincinnati, Ohio, established in 2018. The company is dedicated to developing clinical candidates targeting cardiovascular, metabolic, and kidney diseases. Its primary focus is on CIN-107, an aldosterone synthase inhibitor aimed at treating resistant hypertension and primary aldosteronism. CinCor Pharma's mission is to advance its promising clinical candidates toward marketing approval, emphasizing the development of innovative therapies for patients suffering from cardio-renal conditions.
iOmx Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
iOmx Therapeutics AG is a Munich-based company specializing in immuno-oncology target discovery and drug development. The firm focuses on creating innovative cancer therapeutics that target novel immune checkpoint modulators present on tumor cells. By employing a systematic screening approach of human tumor cells, iOmx Therapeutics has identified several new targets and examined their mechanisms of action. The company's foundation is built upon the principles of cancer immune-checkpoint therapy, which aims to overcome the resistance mechanisms that tumors utilize to evade immune attacks. These resistance mechanisms often involve specific cell surface molecules that activate immune-inhibitory receptors on T cells. By neutralizing these negative interactions, iOmx Therapeutics seeks to reactivate the host immune response, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness of cancer treatments.
Artios Pharma
Series C in 2021
Artios Pharma Limited is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, United Kingdom, that specializes in developing innovative cancer treatments targeting DNA damage response (DDR) pathways. Founded in 2015, the company is dedicated to creating first-in-class therapies aimed at selectively killing cancer cells. Artios's product pipeline features several promising programs, including a focus on DNA polymerase theta (Polθ), which plays a crucial role in DNA repair processes. Additionally, the company is advancing an in-licensed program that targets a newly identified protein linked to DDR and is developing a novel treatment aimed at DNA nucleases involved in these pathways. Artios collaborates with Cancer Research Technology and prominent DNA repair researchers globally to enhance its research and development efforts.
Muna Therapeutics
Series A in 2021
Muna Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing therapies aimed at slowing or halting the progression of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, Frontotemporal Dementia, and Multiple Sclerosis. The company is dedicated to identifying new medicines that preserve cognitive function and enhance resilience against these debilitating conditions, thereby providing individuals affected by neurodegenerative diseases with access to effective treatment options. Through its innovative approach, Muna Therapeutics strives to improve the quality of life for those suffering from these challenging disorders.
Alia Therapeutics
Seed Round in 2021
Alia Therapeutics focuses on developing advanced gene-editing medicines aimed at curing rare genetic diseases. The company employs innovative CRISPR-based genome editing tools to target and correct inborn genetic errors directly within patients' cells. By utilizing these unique therapeutic approaches, Alia Therapeutics seeks to address genetic disorders at their source, providing healthcare professionals with the means to modify genomes effectively. Additionally, the company emphasizes safe and efficient delivery mechanisms to ensure the targeted treatment of affected cells.
Mnemo Therapeutics
Series A in 2021
Mnemo Therapeutics is a biotechnology firm focused on developing immune-based therapies, particularly cell therapies, aimed at treating solid tumors and blood cancers. The company utilizes its EnfiniT platform, a drug discovery engine that harnesses a unique class of antigens and various technologies to target tumorous epitopes prevalent in multiple cancer types. By leveraging epigenetic variation and CAR-T precision genetic engineering, Mnemo Therapeutics strives to create accessible allogeneic treatments that offer effective solutions for patients facing these challenging diseases.
Mainstay Medical
Private Equity Round in 2021
Mainstay Medical is a global medical device company based in Dublin, Ireland, with operations in the United States and Australia. The company focuses on developing innovative therapies for individuals suffering from chronic low back pain, a condition that affects a significant portion of the population. Mainstay Medical has created a FDA-approved restorative treatment aimed at addressing mechanical chronic low back pain. This treatment is designed to help restore muscle control and enhance functionality in the lumbar spine, ultimately improving the quality of life for patients. By collaborating with scientists and clinical experts, Mainstay Medical strives to provide effective solutions for those in need of relief from debilitating pain.
Noema Pharma
Series A in 2020
Noema Pharma AG is a biotechnology company based in Basel, Switzerland, founded in 2019. The company focuses on developing therapeutic products and therapies for orphan neurological disorders characterized by imbalanced neuronal networks. Its research and development efforts aim to address disabling symptoms in conditions affecting the nervous system, including Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, Trigeminal Neuralgia, and Tourette syndrome. By creating novel therapies, Noema Pharma seeks to improve the quality of life and patient outcomes for individuals suffering from these rare conditions.
Catamaran Bio
Series A in 2020
Catamaran Bio is a biotechnology company focused on developing allogeneic immune cell therapies, specifically CAR-NK cell therapies, aimed at treating solid tumors and other cancers. The company utilizes its Tailwind platform to engineer, expand, and process natural killer (NK) cells into off-the-shelf therapeutic products that can address significant unmet medical needs. Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Catamaran Bio is committed to providing transformative treatments through genetic engineering of NK cells, enabling easier access for medical practitioners and patients in need of effective cancer therapies.
POLYNEURON
Series A in 2020
Polyneuron Pharmaceuticals AG is a biotechnology company based in Basel, Switzerland, founded in 2014. The company focuses on developing innovative therapeutics for antibody-mediated autoimmune disorders, particularly those affecting the peripheral nervous system. Its lead candidates include PN-1007 for anti-MAG neuropathy, PN-1018 for multifocal motor neuropathy, and PN-032 and PN-056 for ABO-incompatible transplantation. Polyneuron employs a unique platform technology called Antibody-Catch, which utilizes biodegradable glycopolymers to selectively target and eliminate pathogenic autoantibodies while preserving the overall integrity of the immune system. This approach aims to provide safe and effective treatment options for patients suffering from these complex immune disorders.
Enthera
Series A in 2020
Enthera is an Italian biotech start-up focused on developing innovative therapeutic solutions for diabetes, gastrointestinal complications, and other intestinal disorders linked by shared biological pathways. Established in October 2016 through a partnership between BiovelocITA and scientists Prof. Paolo Fiorina and Dr. Francesca D’Addio, Enthera aims to address auto-immune disorders by targeting pathways involved in cell apoptosis across the gut, pancreas, and other organs. This approach seeks to enhance treatment options for challenging conditions such as type 1 diabetes and inflammatory bowel disease, thereby contributing to advancements in the management of intractable autoimmune diseases.
MISSION Therapeutics
Venture Round in 2020
MISSION Therapeutics is a biotechnology company specializing in developing drugs that target the cellular process of deubiquitylation for the treatment of cancer and other diseases. Their focus is on developing small molecule drugs that selectively inhibit specific deubiquitylating enzymes (DUBs), which play crucial roles in regulating protein degradation and cellular processes. These drugs aim to intervene in disease mechanisms where DUB dysregulation is implicated, offering potential therapeutic benefits.
HotSpot Therapeutics
Series B in 2020
HotSpot Therapeutics is a biotech startup established in 2017 and based in Boston, Massachusetts. The company specializes in developing allosteric therapies that target regulatory sites on proteins. Its innovative therapeutic platform is designed to identify hotspots and locate pathway treatments for a range of conditions, including cancer, metabolic disorders, and rare diseases. By leveraging a comprehensive database of hotspot structures and employing data science, HotSpot Therapeutics aims to enhance drug discovery and provide effective treatment options for patients with various health issues.
PinCell
Seed Round in 2020
PinCell is a biotechnology company dedicated to the research and development of innovative treatments for dermatological diseases, particularly those that are rare or orphan conditions. The firm's focus lies in identifying and targeting novel pathways associated with the underlying mechanisms of inflammatory and neoplastic skin disorders. By concentrating on these new therapeutic targets, PinCell aims to create effective therapies that address unmet medical needs within the field of dermatology. Through its research efforts, the company seeks to enable the discovery of new therapeutic molecules that can improve patient outcomes in skin disease management.
Genespire
Series A in 2020
Genespire is a biotechnology company dedicated to advancing gene therapies for individuals suffering from genetic disorders, with a specific emphasis on primary immunodeficiencies and inherited metabolic diseases. The company specializes in developing innovative therapies that utilize integration-defective lentiviral vectors combined with gene editing techniques. This approach allows for the precise and effective insertion of therapeutic genes into blood cells, providing patients with a range of tailored treatment options suitable for their unique conditions. Genespire's mission is to transform the lives of patients affected by severe genetic diseases through cutting-edge therapeutic solutions.
Epsilen Bio
Seed Round in 2020
Epsilen Bio is developing a transformative therapy known as Epigenetic Silencing to treat human diseases. Epsilen Bio's mission is to develop therapies for patients affected by underserved medical conditions, through stable genomic epigenetic silencing of genes involved in pathological processes. The company was founded in December 2019 and based in Milan, Italy.
Nitrase Therapeutics
Series A in 2020
Nitrase Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical platform company focused on developing therapies targeting a newly identified class of enzymes known as Nitrases. Initially concentrating on Parkinson’s disease, the company aims to create drugs that may slow or halt the progression of this and other related neurodegenerative conditions. By leveraging its expertise in nitration, Nitrase Therapeutics seeks to explore the therapeutic potential of biochemical modifications of proteins, particularly through the identification of nitro-substrates and their involvement in various diseases. This approach positions the company to potentially expand its platform to address a broader range of medical conditions in the future.
RefleXion Medical
Series D in 2020
RefleXion Medical Inc. is a medical equipment company specializing in the development of biologically-guided radiotherapy systems for cancer treatment. Its flagship innovation, the RefleXion X1 machine, is designed to deliver advanced radiation therapies such as stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). The company's biologically-guided radiotherapy (BgRT) technology utilizes positron-emission tomography (PET) imaging data to allow tumors to continuously signal their location during treatment, enabling the possibility of treating multiple tumors in a single session, especially in cases of metastasized cancers. This real-time adaptation to the biological characteristics of tumors represents a significant advancement in radiation oncology. RefleXion Medical, incorporated in 2009 and based in Hayward, California, has established strategic partnerships with Telix Pharmaceuticals Limited and HealthMyne Inc. to further its mission in cancer treatment innovation.
Redx Pharma
Post in 2020
Redx Pharma is a UK-based biotechnology company founded in 2010, specializing in drug discovery and development for oncology and fibrotic diseases. The company focuses on creating novel small molecule drugs aimed at addressing significant unmet medical needs. Its product pipeline includes several promising candidates such as RXC004, a porcupine inhibitor in Phase I clinical development for various cancers; ROCK2, targeting diabetic nephropathy and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis; and RXC005, a reversible inhibitor of Bruton’s tyrosine kinase. Additionally, Redx Pharma collaborates with global pharmaceutical companies, including a research partnership with Jazz Pharmaceuticals to explore drug candidates targeting the Ras/Raf/MAP kinase pathway. The company operates through subsidiaries dedicated to oncology, anti-infectives, and immunology, generating revenue from scientific programs and research collaborations.
Inventiva Pharma
Post in 2020
Inventiva Pharma is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in France, dedicated to developing oral small molecule therapies for patients with significant unmet medical needs, particularly in fibrosis, lysosomal storage disorders, and oncology. The company specializes in drugs that target nuclear receptors, transcription factors, and epigenetic modulation. Its primary product candidate, lanifibranor, is being developed for the treatment of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a condition currently lacking approved therapies. Inventiva has established a robust pipeline supported by a proprietary discovery engine, a dedicated research and development facility, and a skilled team with extensive experience in drug development. In addition to advancing lanifibranor, the company is also working on several earlier-stage programs aimed at addressing various medical conditions. All operations are conducted in France.
GenSight Biologics
Post in 2019
GenSight Biologics S.A. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Paris, France, focused on developing gene therapy treatments for retinal degenerative diseases and neurodegenerative conditions affecting the central nervous system. Utilizing its core technology platforms—Mitochondrial Targeting Sequence and Optogenetics—the company aims to preserve and restore vision in patients with severe retinal disorders. Its lead product candidates include GS010, an AAV2-based gene therapy currently in Phase III trials for treating Leber hereditary optic neuropathy caused by mutations in the ND4 gene, and GS030, which is undergoing Phase I/II trials for retinitis pigmentosa and geographic atrophy in dry age-related macular degeneration. In addition to these, GenSight is advancing several products in preclinical stages targeting various ophthalmic and neurodegenerative diseases. Founded in 2012, the company is dedicated to innovative approaches that aim to prevent vision loss and improve the quality of life for affected patients.
Inventiva Pharma
Post in 2019
Inventiva Pharma is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in France, dedicated to developing oral small molecule therapies for patients with significant unmet medical needs, particularly in fibrosis, lysosomal storage disorders, and oncology. The company specializes in drugs that target nuclear receptors, transcription factors, and epigenetic modulation. Its primary product candidate, lanifibranor, is being developed for the treatment of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a condition currently lacking approved therapies. Inventiva has established a robust pipeline supported by a proprietary discovery engine, a dedicated research and development facility, and a skilled team with extensive experience in drug development. In addition to advancing lanifibranor, the company is also working on several earlier-stage programs aimed at addressing various medical conditions. All operations are conducted in France.
Inotrem
Series B in 2019
Inotrem S.A. is a biotechnology company that specializes in immunotherapy aimed at managing acute and chronic inflammatory syndromes. The company focuses on the TREM-1 pathway to regulate excessive inflammatory responses, utilizing its proprietary technology platform. Inotrem has developed a first-in-class TREM-1 inhibitor known as nangibotide (LR12), which shows promise in treating conditions such as septic shock and myocardial infarction. In addition to its acute inflammatory initiatives, Inotrem is also advancing a program targeting chronic inflammatory diseases, thereby expanding its therapeutic scope. Through its innovative approach, Inotrem aims to enhance treatment options for critical care patients facing a variety of inflammatory challenges.
AFYX Therapeutics
Debt Financing in 2019
AFYX Therapeutics is changing the way mucosal diseases are treated. They are a topical drug delivery company developing a pipeline of targeted treatments for conditions that currently lack approved therapy options. Their proprietary Rivelin® patch is flexible, biodegradable, and adhesive to mucosal surfaces. Designed with electrospinning technology, it delivers a therapeutic directly to the site in need, without interfering with patients’ daily activities.
Comet Therapeutics
Series A in 2019
CoEnzyme is a developer of therapies designed to treat orphan neurological disorders. The company develops a treatment to restore dysregulated CoEnzyme A metabolism through its CoEnzyme metabolism platform, enabling physicians to address the profound unmet medical needs.
DNA Script
Series B in 2019
DNA Script is a pioneering company in the field of DNA synthesis, focused on enhancing life science and human health through innovative technology. The company has developed a unique enzymatic process that allows for the production of synthetic DNA using natural enzymes. This technology underpins their benchtop DNA printer, SYNTAX, which enables laboratories to synthesize their own oligonucleotides. By doing so, DNA Script provides researchers with greater control over their workflows, facilitating faster access to essential genomic materials for various applications in molecular biology and genomics. This capability accelerates experimentation and supports the development of new therapeutics, positioning DNA Script as a key player in the biotechnology sector.
CinCor Pharma
Series A in 2019
CinCor Pharma, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Cincinnati, Ohio, established in 2018. The company is dedicated to developing clinical candidates targeting cardiovascular, metabolic, and kidney diseases. Its primary focus is on CIN-107, an aldosterone synthase inhibitor aimed at treating resistant hypertension and primary aldosteronism. CinCor Pharma's mission is to advance its promising clinical candidates toward marketing approval, emphasizing the development of innovative therapies for patients suffering from cardio-renal conditions.
Twentyeight-Seven Therapeutics
Series A in 2019
Twentyeight-Seven Therapeutics is a developer of microRNAs designed to target regulatory proteins.The company's modulating RNA which are short non-coding RNAs that inhibit target gene expression by suppressing mRNA translation and promoting mRNA decay and develop small molecules that can modulate levels of miRNAs by targeting proteins that interact with these miRNAs, enabling users to target miRNAs are directly involved in cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis.
GenSight Biologics
Post in 2019
GenSight Biologics S.A. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Paris, France, focused on developing gene therapy treatments for retinal degenerative diseases and neurodegenerative conditions affecting the central nervous system. Utilizing its core technology platforms—Mitochondrial Targeting Sequence and Optogenetics—the company aims to preserve and restore vision in patients with severe retinal disorders. Its lead product candidates include GS010, an AAV2-based gene therapy currently in Phase III trials for treating Leber hereditary optic neuropathy caused by mutations in the ND4 gene, and GS030, which is undergoing Phase I/II trials for retinitis pigmentosa and geographic atrophy in dry age-related macular degeneration. In addition to these, GenSight is advancing several products in preclinical stages targeting various ophthalmic and neurodegenerative diseases. Founded in 2012, the company is dedicated to innovative approaches that aim to prevent vision loss and improve the quality of life for affected patients.
Checkmate Pharmaceuticals
Series C in 2018
Checkmate Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on developing novel immunotherapies for cancer treatment. The company specializes in CpG oligonucleotides, which are designed to stimulate an anti-tumor T-cell response while counteracting the mechanisms that tumors use to evade the immune response. Checkmate aims to enhance the effectiveness of existing immunotherapies and provide new treatment options for patients through its innovative approaches. Since its incorporation in 2015, Checkmate has established strategic partnerships with major pharmaceutical companies, including Merck KGaA and Pfizer, to advance its clinical programs and broaden the impact of its research in the field of cancer immunotherapy.
Inspirna
Series C in 2018
Inspirna is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative drug candidates that target essential drivers of cancer. The company utilizes a microRNA-based target discovery platform to identify novel RNA dysregulated cancer drivers, which can be addressed by small molecules and biologics. Inspirna's clinical programs include first-in-class oral small molecules aimed at treating patients with RAS mutant colorectal cancer (RGX-202) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) (RGX-104), both currently in Phase 1b/2 trials. Through its research, Inspirna aims to provide effective treatment options that specifically target cancer metabolism and progression, offering potential advancements in cancer care.
Sitryx Therapeutics
Series A in 2018
Sitryx Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company founded in 2018 and headquartered in Oxford, United Kingdom. The company focuses on developing innovative disease-modifying therapeutics in the fields of immuno-oncology and immuno-inflammation by regulating cell metabolism. Sitryx aims to enhance immune cell functions to inhibit tumor growth and improve immune responses. Co-founded by leading scientists from the United States and Europe, the company has attracted significant investment, including $30 million in Series A funding from a consortium of specialist investors. Sitryx has established a diverse pipeline of projects at various stages of drug discovery, positioning itself at the forefront of immunometabolism research.
HotSpot Therapeutics
Series A in 2018
HotSpot Therapeutics is a biotech startup established in 2017 and based in Boston, Massachusetts. The company specializes in developing allosteric therapies that target regulatory sites on proteins. Its innovative therapeutic platform is designed to identify hotspots and locate pathway treatments for a range of conditions, including cancer, metabolic disorders, and rare diseases. By leveraging a comprehensive database of hotspot structures and employing data science, HotSpot Therapeutics aims to enhance drug discovery and provide effective treatment options for patients with various health issues.
Castle Biosciences
Venture Round in 2018
Castle Biosciences, Inc. is a commercial-stage biotechnology company focused on developing and commercializing diagnostic and prognostic tests for dermatological cancers. The company's lead product, DecisionDx-Melanoma, is a multi-gene expression profile test designed to identify stage I and II melanoma patients at high risk of metastasis by analyzing biological information from 31 genes in tumor tissue. In addition, Castle Biosciences offers the DecisionDx-UM test, which predicts metastasis risk in uveal melanoma patients, and is developing two late-stage products targeting cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma and suspicious pigmented lesions. The company's tests provide personalized, clinically actionable genomic information to assist physicians and patients in making informed treatment decisions. Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Friendswood, Texas, Castle Biosciences aims to significantly impact cancer diagnosis and management through its innovative diagnostic solutions.
Crescendo Biologics
Series B in 2018
Crescendo Biologics is a new Cambridge-based company whose vision is to deliver next-generation antibody therapeutics based on novel class-leading platforms. The focus of the company is on developing platforms that will address key issues in generating high-affinity, soluble, human VH antibody fragments. These are the smallest fragments that retain antibody binding, and have many desirable properties as potential therapeutics. Crescendo will then utilise these platforms for product development of in-house targets or in partnership with other companies.
EryDel
Series B in 2018
EryDel, based in Urbino, has developed a patented technology for drug delivery using red blood cells (erythrocytes). This innovative approach allows for the efficient loading of various therapeutic agents, including drugs and proteins, into red blood cells, enabling their gradual release within the patient's body. This method enhances treatment efficacy while minimizing side effects, particularly beneficial for chronic conditions that typically require daily medication. EryDel's solution has been tested in patients with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. The company offers comprehensive support for the drug delivery process, including a specialized device called the "Red Cell Loader" and disposable kits. Additionally, EryDel is focused on automating blood processing at the point of care, leveraging the unique properties of erythrocytes to facilitate the treatment of various rare diseases.
Inventiva Pharma
Post in 2018
Inventiva Pharma is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in France, dedicated to developing oral small molecule therapies for patients with significant unmet medical needs, particularly in fibrosis, lysosomal storage disorders, and oncology. The company specializes in drugs that target nuclear receptors, transcription factors, and epigenetic modulation. Its primary product candidate, lanifibranor, is being developed for the treatment of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a condition currently lacking approved therapies. Inventiva has established a robust pipeline supported by a proprietary discovery engine, a dedicated research and development facility, and a skilled team with extensive experience in drug development. In addition to advancing lanifibranor, the company is also working on several earlier-stage programs aimed at addressing various medical conditions. All operations are conducted in France.
RefleXion Medical
Series C in 2018
RefleXion Medical Inc. is a medical equipment company specializing in the development of biologically-guided radiotherapy systems for cancer treatment. Its flagship innovation, the RefleXion X1 machine, is designed to deliver advanced radiation therapies such as stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). The company's biologically-guided radiotherapy (BgRT) technology utilizes positron-emission tomography (PET) imaging data to allow tumors to continuously signal their location during treatment, enabling the possibility of treating multiple tumors in a single session, especially in cases of metastasized cancers. This real-time adaptation to the biological characteristics of tumors represents a significant advancement in radiation oncology. RefleXion Medical, incorporated in 2009 and based in Hayward, California, has established strategic partnerships with Telix Pharmaceuticals Limited and HealthMyne Inc. to further its mission in cancer treatment innovation.
Mainstay Medical
Post in 2018
Mainstay Medical is a global medical device company based in Dublin, Ireland, with operations in the United States and Australia. The company focuses on developing innovative therapies for individuals suffering from chronic low back pain, a condition that affects a significant portion of the population. Mainstay Medical has created a FDA-approved restorative treatment aimed at addressing mechanical chronic low back pain. This treatment is designed to help restore muscle control and enhance functionality in the lumbar spine, ultimately improving the quality of life for patients. By collaborating with scientists and clinical experts, Mainstay Medical strives to provide effective solutions for those in need of relief from debilitating pain.
Mironid
Venture Round in 2018
Mironid Limited is a drug discovery company based in Newhouse, United Kingdom, focused on developing targeted therapies for degenerative kidney diseases, chronic inflammatory diseases, and cancer. Established in 2014, Mironid specializes in creating novel drug candidate molecules by modulating the activity of key cell signaling proteins. Its drug discovery pipeline includes innovative compounds aimed at treating chronic inflammatory diseases and degenerative kidney diseases. The company employs a unique Physiology Mirroring Approach, designing assays that replicate the conformation and environment of drug targets as found in living cells. By focusing on unmet medical needs, Mironid aims to advance its drug development programs, particularly those targeting cAMP-degrading phosphodiesterase enzymes, ultimately striving to deliver effective and differentiated therapies to market.
Hookipa Pharma
Series C in 2017
Hookipa Pharma Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing immunotherapeutics for infectious diseases and cancers using its proprietary arenavirus platform. The company’s lead product candidate for infectious diseases, HB-101, is currently undergoing a randomized double-blinded Phase II clinical trial for patients awaiting kidney transplants from cytomegalovirus-positive donors. In oncology, Hookipa is advancing its candidates HB-201 and HB-202, which target human papillomavirus-positive cancers and are in preclinical studies. The company employs its innovative VaxWave and TheraT platforms to stimulate robust immune responses, generating high levels of antigen-specific killer T cells and antibodies, which are essential for effective treatment. Additionally, Hookipa has partnered with Gilead Sciences to develop therapies aimed at achieving functional cures for chronic hepatitis B and HIV infections. Founded in 2011 and based in New York, Hookipa Pharma is dedicated to transforming the landscape of immune therapies.
DNA Script
Series A in 2017
DNA Script is a pioneering company in the field of DNA synthesis, focused on enhancing life science and human health through innovative technology. The company has developed a unique enzymatic process that allows for the production of synthetic DNA using natural enzymes. This technology underpins their benchtop DNA printer, SYNTAX, which enables laboratories to synthesize their own oligonucleotides. By doing so, DNA Script provides researchers with greater control over their workflows, facilitating faster access to essential genomic materials for various applications in molecular biology and genomics. This capability accelerates experimentation and supports the development of new therapeutics, positioning DNA Script as a key player in the biotechnology sector.
Breath Therapeutics
Series A in 2017
Breath Therapeutics GmbH, based in Munich, Germany, with an additional office in Menlo Park, California, specializes in the development of drug-aerosol therapeutics aimed at treating bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome and other severe respiratory diseases. Founded in 2016, the company operates as a subsidiary of Zambon S.p.A. Breath Therapeutics focuses on innovative inhalation therapies that combine novel formulations of existing drugs with advanced inhalation technology, specifically targeting rare respiratory conditions with significant unmet medical needs. Their product offerings include a liposomal formulation of cyclosporine A for inhalation, delivered via a high-performance nebulizer that enhances drug concentration in the lungs while reducing systemic exposure. This approach aims to improve treatment efficacy and safety for patients suffering from life-threatening pulmonary diseases.
HotSpot Therapeutics
Seed Round in 2017
HotSpot Therapeutics is a biotech startup established in 2017 and based in Boston, Massachusetts. The company specializes in developing allosteric therapies that target regulatory sites on proteins. Its innovative therapeutic platform is designed to identify hotspots and locate pathway treatments for a range of conditions, including cancer, metabolic disorders, and rare diseases. By leveraging a comprehensive database of hotspot structures and employing data science, HotSpot Therapeutics aims to enhance drug discovery and provide effective treatment options for patients with various health issues.
Hookipa Pharma
Series B in 2016
Hookipa Pharma Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing immunotherapeutics for infectious diseases and cancers using its proprietary arenavirus platform. The company’s lead product candidate for infectious diseases, HB-101, is currently undergoing a randomized double-blinded Phase II clinical trial for patients awaiting kidney transplants from cytomegalovirus-positive donors. In oncology, Hookipa is advancing its candidates HB-201 and HB-202, which target human papillomavirus-positive cancers and are in preclinical studies. The company employs its innovative VaxWave and TheraT platforms to stimulate robust immune responses, generating high levels of antigen-specific killer T cells and antibodies, which are essential for effective treatment. Additionally, Hookipa has partnered with Gilead Sciences to develop therapies aimed at achieving functional cures for chronic hepatitis B and HIV infections. Founded in 2011 and based in New York, Hookipa Pharma is dedicated to transforming the landscape of immune therapies.
iOmx Therapeutics
Series A in 2016
iOmx Therapeutics AG is a Munich-based company specializing in immuno-oncology target discovery and drug development. The firm focuses on creating innovative cancer therapeutics that target novel immune checkpoint modulators present on tumor cells. By employing a systematic screening approach of human tumor cells, iOmx Therapeutics has identified several new targets and examined their mechanisms of action. The company's foundation is built upon the principles of cancer immune-checkpoint therapy, which aims to overcome the resistance mechanisms that tumors utilize to evade immune attacks. These resistance mechanisms often involve specific cell surface molecules that activate immune-inhibitory receptors on T cells. By neutralizing these negative interactions, iOmx Therapeutics seeks to reactivate the host immune response, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness of cancer treatments.
Delinia
Series A in 2016
Delinia, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in San Francisco, California, focused on developing novel therapeutics for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Founded in 2014, the company’s lead program features a molecule that selectively potentiates and expands regulatory T cells (Tregs), which play a vital role in maintaining self-tolerance and immune system balance. With a team of scientific founders and experienced executives, Delinia aims to advance its therapeutics through clinical development, providing enhanced treatment options for patients suffering from autoimmune conditions. In 2017, Delinia became a subsidiary of Celgene Corporation, further strengthening its position in the biotechnology landscape.
DNA Script
Seed Round in 2016
DNA Script is a pioneering company in the field of DNA synthesis, focused on enhancing life science and human health through innovative technology. The company has developed a unique enzymatic process that allows for the production of synthetic DNA using natural enzymes. This technology underpins their benchtop DNA printer, SYNTAX, which enables laboratories to synthesize their own oligonucleotides. By doing so, DNA Script provides researchers with greater control over their workflows, facilitating faster access to essential genomic materials for various applications in molecular biology and genomics. This capability accelerates experimentation and supports the development of new therapeutics, positioning DNA Script as a key player in the biotechnology sector.
Inspirna
Series B in 2016
Inspirna is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative drug candidates that target essential drivers of cancer. The company utilizes a microRNA-based target discovery platform to identify novel RNA dysregulated cancer drivers, which can be addressed by small molecules and biologics. Inspirna's clinical programs include first-in-class oral small molecules aimed at treating patients with RAS mutant colorectal cancer (RGX-202) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) (RGX-104), both currently in Phase 1b/2 trials. Through its research, Inspirna aims to provide effective treatment options that specifically target cancer metabolism and progression, offering potential advancements in cancer care.
RefleXion Medical
Series B in 2016
RefleXion Medical Inc. is a medical equipment company specializing in the development of biologically-guided radiotherapy systems for cancer treatment. Its flagship innovation, the RefleXion X1 machine, is designed to deliver advanced radiation therapies such as stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). The company's biologically-guided radiotherapy (BgRT) technology utilizes positron-emission tomography (PET) imaging data to allow tumors to continuously signal their location during treatment, enabling the possibility of treating multiple tumors in a single session, especially in cases of metastasized cancers. This real-time adaptation to the biological characteristics of tumors represents a significant advancement in radiation oncology. RefleXion Medical, incorporated in 2009 and based in Hayward, California, has established strategic partnerships with Telix Pharmaceuticals Limited and HealthMyne Inc. to further its mission in cancer treatment innovation.
Corvidia
Series A in 2016
Corvidia Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Waltham, Massachusetts, specializing in the development of precision cardiovascular therapies. Founded in 2014, the company focuses on researching and commercializing innovative treatments for cardio-renal diseases. Corvidia is particularly engaged in developing therapies for chronic kidney disease associated with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, inflammation, and high triglyceride-induced acute pancreatitis. As of July 2020, Corvidia operates as a subsidiary of Novo Nordisk A/S, leveraging its expertise to advance its clinical-stage programs aimed at addressing specific biological pathways in patients with unique sensitivities.
ENYO Pharma
Series A in 2016
ENYO Pharma SA is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Lyon, France, that focuses on the discovery and development of innovative treatments for acute and chronic viral infections. Established in 2014 by a team of scientists from the Infectiology Research Center, the company utilizes a proprietary platform to identify intracellular therapeutic targets and develop small molecule therapeutics. ENYO Pharma's research primarily targets significant human infecting viruses, with current programs aimed at treating chronic hepatitis B and severe influenza. The company's pipeline includes a lead compound, EYP001, which modulates FXR to reduce the cccDNA reservoir and inhibit the expression of viral proteins, along with EYP002, which is in preclinical studies. With an emphasis on addressing unmet medical needs in infectious diseases and metabolic disorders, ENYO Pharma has established collaborations with prominent research institutions to enhance its drug development efforts.
ObsEva
Series B in 2015
ObsEva SA is a Swiss-based, speciality biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the development of innovative drugs for women's reproductive medicine. ObsEva's main focus is on therapies for preterm labor. ObsEva was founded in November 2012, by Ernest Loumaye MD, PhD and André Chollet PhD. Ernest Loumaye is a specialist in female reproductive medicine with 20 years of experience in the biopharmaceutical industry. Ernest Loumaye was previously Co-Founder and CEO of PregLem SA, a successful biopharmaceutical company which was acquired by Gedeon Richter in 2010. André Chollet is specialist in medicinal and pharmaceutical chemistry with more than 30 years of experience in diverse positions in the biopharmaceutical industry, including in Biogen, GSK and Merck Serono. André Chollet was responsible for the preterm labor program at Serono before the acquisition of the company by Merck KGaA.
Asceneuron
Series A in 2015
Asceneuron develops effective therapeutics for orphan tauopathies and Alzheimer’s disease. By focusing on areas of high unmet medical need, Asceneuron aspires to become a leading biotech company specialized in small molecule drug discovery for neurodegenerative diseases. Tauopathies are currently untreatable neurodegenerative diseases that rapidly progress towards debilitating conditions. The appearance of deposits of the microtubule-associated tau protein as e.g. neurofibrillary tangles in neurons of the brain is a common feature of tauopathies that is shared with Alzheimer’s disease. Neuronal tau deposits are known to be a major contributor to neurodegeneration and mutations in the tau gene are causative of the tauopathy fronto-temporal dementia and parkinsonism linked to chromosome 17 (FTDP-17). Due to increasing life expectancy, Alzheimer’s disease is viewed as one of the largest healthcare problems of this century, imposing a major economic burden on societies in the Western and developing world. Current treatment options provide limited benefits supporting the urgent need for more efficacious and better tolerated medicines that address symptomatic relief as well as disease progression.
Recor Medical
Series D in 2015
ReCor Medical has developed a unique therapeutic non-focused ultrasound system for performing renal denervation in patients with resistant hypertension. The PARADISE® technology (Percutaneous Renal Denervation System) includes a 6 French catheter with a cylindrical transducer that emits ultrasound energy circumferentially, allowing for a more efficient renal denervation procedure.
Crescendo Biologics
Series A in 2014
Crescendo Biologics is a new Cambridge-based company whose vision is to deliver next-generation antibody therapeutics based on novel class-leading platforms. The focus of the company is on developing platforms that will address key issues in generating high-affinity, soluble, human VH antibody fragments. These are the smallest fragments that retain antibody binding, and have many desirable properties as potential therapeutics. Crescendo will then utilise these platforms for product development of in-house targets or in partnership with other companies.
RefleXion Medical
Series A in 2014
RefleXion Medical Inc. is a medical equipment company specializing in the development of biologically-guided radiotherapy systems for cancer treatment. Its flagship innovation, the RefleXion X1 machine, is designed to deliver advanced radiation therapies such as stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). The company's biologically-guided radiotherapy (BgRT) technology utilizes positron-emission tomography (PET) imaging data to allow tumors to continuously signal their location during treatment, enabling the possibility of treating multiple tumors in a single session, especially in cases of metastasized cancers. This real-time adaptation to the biological characteristics of tumors represents a significant advancement in radiation oncology. RefleXion Medical, incorporated in 2009 and based in Hayward, California, has established strategic partnerships with Telix Pharmaceuticals Limited and HealthMyne Inc. to further its mission in cancer treatment innovation.
ProQR Therapeutics
Series A in 2014
ProQR Therapeutics N.V. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Leiden, the Netherlands, focused on the discovery and development of RNA-based therapeutics for genetic disorders. The company is advancing several product candidates, including sepofarsen, which is in phase II/III clinical trials for Leber's congenital amaurosis 10, and QR-421a, currently in phase 1/2 trials for Usher syndrome type 2 and non-syndromic retinitis pigmentosa. Additionally, QR-1123 is in phase 1/2 trials for autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa, while QR-504a has commenced its first clinical trial for Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy. ProQR has established collaborations with leading medical and research institutions, including General Hospital Corporation and Radboud University Medical Center. Founded in 2012, the company is dedicated to developing innovative treatments for patients with severe genetic rare diseases.
NuCana
Series B in 2014
NuCana is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to improving treatment outcomes for cancer patients through its proprietary ProTide technology. This innovative approach aims to transform commonly prescribed chemotherapy agents into safer and more effective medicines by overcoming key mechanisms of cancer resistance and enhancing the concentration of anti-cancer metabolites within tumor cells. The company is developing a portfolio of first-in-class and best-in-class pharmaceutical products, including NUC-3373, NUC-7738, and Acelarin, primarily focusing on oncology, while also maintaining the potential for broader clinical applications. With a management team experienced in the biopharmaceutical industry, NuCana is committed to addressing significant unmet medical needs in cancer treatment.
Inotrem
Series A in 2014
Inotrem S.A. is a biotechnology company that specializes in immunotherapy aimed at managing acute and chronic inflammatory syndromes. The company focuses on the TREM-1 pathway to regulate excessive inflammatory responses, utilizing its proprietary technology platform. Inotrem has developed a first-in-class TREM-1 inhibitor known as nangibotide (LR12), which shows promise in treating conditions such as septic shock and myocardial infarction. In addition to its acute inflammatory initiatives, Inotrem is also advancing a program targeting chronic inflammatory diseases, thereby expanding its therapeutic scope. Through its innovative approach, Inotrem aims to enhance treatment options for critical care patients facing a variety of inflammatory challenges.
Crescendo Biologics
Series A in 2013
Crescendo Biologics is a new Cambridge-based company whose vision is to deliver next-generation antibody therapeutics based on novel class-leading platforms. The focus of the company is on developing platforms that will address key issues in generating high-affinity, soluble, human VH antibody fragments. These are the smallest fragments that retain antibody binding, and have many desirable properties as potential therapeutics. Crescendo will then utilise these platforms for product development of in-house targets or in partnership with other companies.
MISSION Therapeutics
Series B in 2013
MISSION Therapeutics is a biotechnology company specializing in developing drugs that target the cellular process of deubiquitylation for the treatment of cancer and other diseases. Their focus is on developing small molecule drugs that selectively inhibit specific deubiquitylating enzymes (DUBs), which play crucial roles in regulating protein degradation and cellular processes. These drugs aim to intervene in disease mechanisms where DUB dysregulation is implicated, offering potential therapeutic benefits.
Hookipa Pharma
Series B in 2013
Hookipa Pharma Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing immunotherapeutics for infectious diseases and cancers using its proprietary arenavirus platform. The company’s lead product candidate for infectious diseases, HB-101, is currently undergoing a randomized double-blinded Phase II clinical trial for patients awaiting kidney transplants from cytomegalovirus-positive donors. In oncology, Hookipa is advancing its candidates HB-201 and HB-202, which target human papillomavirus-positive cancers and are in preclinical studies. The company employs its innovative VaxWave and TheraT platforms to stimulate robust immune responses, generating high levels of antigen-specific killer T cells and antibodies, which are essential for effective treatment. Additionally, Hookipa has partnered with Gilead Sciences to develop therapies aimed at achieving functional cures for chronic hepatitis B and HIV infections. Founded in 2011 and based in New York, Hookipa Pharma is dedicated to transforming the landscape of immune therapies.
Altamira Therapeutics
Series C in 2013
Altamira Therapeutics is focused on developing innovative pharmaceutical therapies aimed at addressing unmet medical needs, particularly in neurotologic disorders affecting the inner ear. The company is recognized as a pioneer in creating treatments for hearing protection, tinnitus relief, and balance restoration. Among its product offerings is Bentrio, a drug-free nasal spray designed to provide personal protection against airborne viruses and allergens. Additionally, Altamira utilizes its OligoPhore/SemaPhore platform, which enables the complexation of therapeutic RNAs with proprietary peptides to create nanoparticle formulations. This technology facilitates the systemic delivery of therapeutic RNA to tissues impacted by leaky vasculature, which is characteristic of solid tumors and certain inflammatory conditions.
ProQR Therapeutics
Seed Round in 2013
ProQR Therapeutics N.V. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Leiden, the Netherlands, focused on the discovery and development of RNA-based therapeutics for genetic disorders. The company is advancing several product candidates, including sepofarsen, which is in phase II/III clinical trials for Leber's congenital amaurosis 10, and QR-421a, currently in phase 1/2 trials for Usher syndrome type 2 and non-syndromic retinitis pigmentosa. Additionally, QR-1123 is in phase 1/2 trials for autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa, while QR-504a has commenced its first clinical trial for Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy. ProQR has established collaborations with leading medical and research institutions, including General Hospital Corporation and Radboud University Medical Center. Founded in 2012, the company is dedicated to developing innovative treatments for patients with severe genetic rare diseases.
Flexion Therapeutics
Series B in 2012
Flexion Therapeutics, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Burlington, Massachusetts, dedicated to the discovery, development, and commercialization of therapies for musculoskeletal conditions, particularly osteoarthritis. The company offers ZILRETTA, an intra-articular injection designed to manage knee pain associated with osteoarthritis in the United States. Additionally, Flexion is developing FX201, a gene therapy aimed at stimulating the production of an anti-inflammatory protein to provide pain relief, and FX301, a NaV1.7 inhibitor intended for post-operative pain management. Founded in 2007, Flexion Therapeutics collaborates with pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies to advance its drug candidates through clinical proof of concept and beyond, thereby enhancing their partners' portfolios while sharing expertise and risk.
NuCana
Series A in 2011
NuCana is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to improving treatment outcomes for cancer patients through its proprietary ProTide technology. This innovative approach aims to transform commonly prescribed chemotherapy agents into safer and more effective medicines by overcoming key mechanisms of cancer resistance and enhancing the concentration of anti-cancer metabolites within tumor cells. The company is developing a portfolio of first-in-class and best-in-class pharmaceutical products, including NUC-3373, NUC-7738, and Acelarin, primarily focusing on oncology, while also maintaining the potential for broader clinical applications. With a management team experienced in the biopharmaceutical industry, NuCana is committed to addressing significant unmet medical needs in cancer treatment.
NuCana
Series A in 2011
NuCana is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to improving treatment outcomes for cancer patients through its proprietary ProTide technology. This innovative approach aims to transform commonly prescribed chemotherapy agents into safer and more effective medicines by overcoming key mechanisms of cancer resistance and enhancing the concentration of anti-cancer metabolites within tumor cells. The company is developing a portfolio of first-in-class and best-in-class pharmaceutical products, including NUC-3373, NUC-7738, and Acelarin, primarily focusing on oncology, while also maintaining the potential for broader clinical applications. With a management team experienced in the biopharmaceutical industry, NuCana is committed to addressing significant unmet medical needs in cancer treatment.
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