Takeda

Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited is a global biopharmaceutical leader that focuses on researching, developing, manufacturing, and marketing innovative medicines. The company specializes in a range of therapeutic areas, including oncology, gastroenterology, neuroscience, and rare diseases. With its commitment to improving patient outcomes, Takeda is dedicated to delivering advanced pharmaceuticals and therapeutics, as well as vaccines. Founded in 1781 and headquartered in Japan, Takeda operates worldwide, with significant research and development facilities in locations such as Cambridge, Massachusetts, and San Diego, California. The company also engages in strategic investments through its venture capital arm, which supports early-stage companies and technologies that align with its therapeutic focus, fostering collaborations that leverage its extensive R&D capabilities. Takeda's mission is to enhance the quality of life for patients globally through continuous innovation and excellence in healthcare.

Andrew Plump

President, Research and Development

Robbie Woodman

Senior Partner

Suzie Yoon

Investment Principal

Past deals in Life Science

Harness Therapeutics

Venture Round in 2025
Harness Therapeutics is a biotechnology company dedicated to developing a novel class of therapeutic RNAs known as SINEUPs®, which allow for precise upregulation of protein expression. This innovative technology provides a unique mechanism of action aimed at addressing challenging diseases, significantly broadening the druggable proteome. Harness Therapeutics focuses on central nervous system and ophthalmologic disorders but also sees potential applications across various therapeutic areas. By enhancing translation, their platform meets unmet medical needs and enables the creation of differentiated products that cannot be achieved with existing technologies.

Ascentage Pharma

Post in 2024
Ascentage Pharma Group International is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing novel small-molecule therapies for cancer, hepatitis B virus (HBV), and age-related diseases. Founded in 2009 and headquartered in Suzhou, China, the company has established a diverse pipeline of drug candidates, including HQP1351, a BCR-ABL/KIT inhibitor targeting resistant mutations, and APG-2575, an orally administered Bcl-2 selective inhibitor for hematologic malignancies. Additional candidates include APG-1252, aimed at restoring apoptosis in various solid tumors, and APG-115, which targets the MDM2-p53 interaction in solid tumors and lymphoma. Ascentage Pharma also develops APG-1387 for advanced solid tumors and chronic HBV infection, alongside other therapies for non-small-cell lung carcinoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia. The company has entered into clinical collaborations to explore innovative treatment combinations, furthering its commitment to addressing challenging diseases in the oncology landscape.

Nabla Bio

Series A in 2024
Nabla Bio operates an autoreverse platform that facilitates the rapid discovery of novel protein variants with unique properties. By leveraging insights gained from billions of natural proteins, the company engineers these enhanced proteins for both medical and industrial applications. Through extensive experimentation, Nabla Bio develops new medicines and improves nutritional products, allowing clients to conduct complex measurements of protein function and implement innovative solutions in various fields.

Maia Oncology

Seed Round in 2023
Maia Oncology is a virtual onco-primary care clinic that focuses on providing comprehensive care for cancer patients and survivors. The clinic operates a platform designed to coordinate cancer care, tracking important patient outcomes such as hospitalizations, emergency room visits, and the emergence of new comorbidities. This approach helps patients manage the complexities and long-term effects associated with cancer treatment. By offering a supportive environment, Maia Oncology aims to enhance the navigation of treatment-related challenges and improve overall patient well-being.

EvolveImmune Therapeutics

Venture Round in 2023
EvolveImmune Therapeutics specializes in developing innovative immunotherapies aimed at addressing significant unmet medical needs in oncology and autoimmune diseases. The company has created a unique immunobiological platform that enables sustained immune activation and precise targeting of tumor cells through engineered biologics. These first-in-category therapeutics focus on maximizing the therapeutic benefit while minimizing toxicity, setting them apart from conventional CD3 bispecific and other immune therapies. By leveraging a proprietary in vivo target discovery platform, EvolveImmune is building a pipeline of novel therapeutic candidates that target various immune cell types, thereby enhancing treatment options for patients suffering from a range of conditions, particularly cancer and autoimmune disorders.

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.

Project Scientist

Grant in 2023
The only focused effort of its kind, Project Scientist was developed to offer girls the essential support unique to each stage of a future scientists' life serving girls/women ages 4 to PhD age. Through extensive research on current trends and practices has built a robust & focused, three-phase, program pipeline to serve as a national model for advancing girls and women, of all ages, in their STEM interests and passions.

Zelluna Immunotherapy

Venture Round in 2022
Zelluna Immunotherapy AS, founded in 2016 and based in Oslo, Norway, is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing T-cell receptor (TCR) therapies for cancer treatment. The company aims to transform cancer therapy by creating TCR-based immunotherapies that can address various cancer types and patient needs. Zelluna's primary asset comprises a diverse portfolio of TCRs derived from patients who demonstrated long-term survival in peptide-based cancer vaccine trials conducted by Professor Gustav Gaudernack at the Norwegian Radium Hospital/Oslo University Hospital. Currently, several TCRs are in various stages of development. Zelluna is a member of the Oslo Cancer Cluster, an organization that fosters collaboration among stakeholders in cancer research and development, and is situated within the Oslo Cancer Cluster Innovation Park, adjacent to leading cancer treatment and research facilities.

Be Biopharma

Series B in 2022
Be Biopharma, Inc. is focused on developing innovative therapeutics derived from engineered B-cells to address various diseases, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases. Founded in 2020 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company aims to overcome significant challenges associated with traditional cell and gene therapies, such as the limitations of dosing, unpredictable reactions in patients, and the necessity of pre-treatment chemotherapy. By leveraging precision genome editing, Be Biopharma creates durable and effective cell therapies that can be administered without toxic conditioning, thereby improving treatment options for conditions like Hemophilia B and enhancing overall patient outcomes.

Adaptate Biotherapeutics

Acquisition in 2022
Adaptate Biotherapeutics is a biotherapeutics company based in London, founded in 2019 by Adrian Hayday. The company specializes in developing antibody-based therapies aimed at modulating gamma delta T cells in situ. By leveraging innovative technology, Adaptate focuses on creating immunotherapies that target cancer and autoimmune diseases. The company's work holds the promise of significantly enhancing treatment options for patients, providing effective medical solutions for various immune-related conditions.

Harness Therapeutics

Seed Round in 2021
Harness Therapeutics is a biotechnology company dedicated to developing a novel class of therapeutic RNAs known as SINEUPs®, which allow for precise upregulation of protein expression. This innovative technology provides a unique mechanism of action aimed at addressing challenging diseases, significantly broadening the druggable proteome. Harness Therapeutics focuses on central nervous system and ophthalmologic disorders but also sees potential applications across various therapeutic areas. By enhancing translation, their platform meets unmet medical needs and enables the creation of differentiated products that cannot be achieved with existing technologies.

BridGene Biosciences

Series A in 2021
BridGene Biosciences is a biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing small molecules aimed at traditionally untreatable targets. The company employs advanced chemoproteomic technology, integrating covalent chemistry, chemical proteomics, and quantitative mass spectrometry to create highly selective small-molecule inhibitors. This innovative approach allows for proteome-wide screening in live cells, facilitating the identification of drug targets that have historically been considered undruggable. By leveraging these techniques, BridGene seeks to advance therapeutic development in the healthcare sector, ultimately contributing to the discovery of new drugs and improving treatment options.

Code Biotherapeutics

Seed Round in 2021
Code Biotherapeutics is a next-generation gene therapy company pioneering the development of targeted non-viral gene therapies to treat serious and life-threatening genetic diseases. Code Bio leverages its novel multivalent synthetic DNA delivery platform, 3DNA, which has been engineered to overcome many of the challenges inherent with viral-based gene therapies such as immunogenicity, size and delivery limitations, re-dosability, and manufacturing complexity. The company is advancing an internal pipeline focused on select rare disease programs as well as establishing partnerships to take forward programs in both rare and prevalent diseases.

Adaptate Biotherapeutics

Series A in 2021
Adaptate Biotherapeutics is a biotherapeutics company based in London, founded in 2019 by Adrian Hayday. The company specializes in developing antibody-based therapies aimed at modulating gamma delta T cells in situ. By leveraging innovative technology, Adaptate focuses on creating immunotherapies that target cancer and autoimmune diseases. The company's work holds the promise of significantly enhancing treatment options for patients, providing effective medical solutions for various immune-related 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.

Bridge Medicines

Funding Round in 2020
Bridge Medicines LLC is a biotechnology company based in New York, established in 2016. It specializes in drug discovery and the development of innovative therapeutics for various human diseases, particularly in oncology and rare diseases. The company collaborates with prominent institutions such as Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, The Rockefeller University, and Weill Cornell Medicine, as well as industry partners like Takeda Pharmaceutical Company. Bridge Medicines focuses on advancing technologies from academic research through to clinical development, with a notable emphasis on developing inhibitors for acute leukemias and small molecule inhibitors for hereditary angioedema and inflammatory disorders. The initiative aims to provide comprehensive support throughout the drug development process, from validating preclinical studies to advancing candidates into human clinical trials.

Be Biopharma

Series A in 2020
Be Biopharma, Inc. is focused on developing innovative therapeutics derived from engineered B-cells to address various diseases, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases. Founded in 2020 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company aims to overcome significant challenges associated with traditional cell and gene therapies, such as the limitations of dosing, unpredictable reactions in patients, and the necessity of pre-treatment chemotherapy. By leveraging precision genome editing, Be Biopharma creates durable and effective cell therapies that can be administered without toxic conditioning, thereby improving treatment options for conditions like Hemophilia B and enhancing overall patient outcomes.

ImmPACT Bio

Series A in 2020
ImmPACT Bio USA Inc. is a cell therapy company focused on developing engineered T-cells specifically designed to target and treat solid tumors. By utilizing advanced technology, the company aims to create chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies that exhibit tumor specificity, allowing them to induce cytotoxicity only when interacting with tumor cells while sparing healthy tissues. This selective targeting mitigates the safety risks commonly associated with existing CAR-T therapies, providing a promising approach to cancer treatment that enhances efficacy and reduces potential harm to noncancerous cells.

Cerevance

Series B in 2020
Cerevance LLC is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative therapeutics for neurological and psychiatric disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and other chronic neurodegenerative conditions. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, with an additional office in Cambridge, United Kingdom, the company utilizes its NETSseq platform to profile specific brain cell types, including neurons and glial cells, using a repository of over 15,000 human brain tissue samples. This platform provides detailed expression and epigenetic data, allowing Cerevance to identify promising therapeutic targets for central nervous system diseases. Through its research, the company aims to advance new medicines that can potentially address the underlying mechanisms of these debilitating conditions.

Emendo Biotherapeutics

Series B in 2020
EmendoBio, Inc. is focused on advancing the field of genome editing by developing innovative gene editing tools aimed at overcoming challenges in gene therapy. The company leverages expertise in protein engineering and DNA repair, combining insights from top academic institutions to create genetic medicines that address currently untreatable disorders and diseases. By transforming existing methodologies and employing creative approaches, EmendoBio seeks to resolve significant bottlenecks in gene therapy, enabling healthcare professionals to provide effective treatments where none previously existed. Through a commitment to pushing scientific boundaries, EmendoBio strives to deliver on the potential of gene editing for transformative medical solutions.

EvolveImmune Therapeutics

Venture Round in 2020
EvolveImmune Therapeutics specializes in developing innovative immunotherapies aimed at addressing significant unmet medical needs in oncology and autoimmune diseases. The company has created a unique immunobiological platform that enables sustained immune activation and precise targeting of tumor cells through engineered biologics. These first-in-category therapeutics focus on maximizing the therapeutic benefit while minimizing toxicity, setting them apart from conventional CD3 bispecific and other immune therapies. By leveraging a proprietary in vivo target discovery platform, EvolveImmune is building a pipeline of novel therapeutic candidates that target various immune cell types, thereby enhancing treatment options for patients suffering from a range of conditions, particularly cancer and autoimmune disorders.

Harness Therapeutics

Seed Round in 2020
Harness Therapeutics is a biotechnology company dedicated to developing a novel class of therapeutic RNAs known as SINEUPs®, which allow for precise upregulation of protein expression. This innovative technology provides a unique mechanism of action aimed at addressing challenging diseases, significantly broadening the druggable proteome. Harness Therapeutics focuses on central nervous system and ophthalmologic disorders but also sees potential applications across various therapeutic areas. By enhancing translation, their platform meets unmet medical needs and enables the creation of differentiated products that cannot be achieved with existing technologies.

Avidity Biosciences

Series C in 2019
Avidity Biosciences, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing oligonucleotide-based therapies known as antibody oligonucleotide conjugates (AOCs). These innovative therapies aim to address the limitations of traditional oligonucleotide treatments by combining the tissue selectivity of monoclonal antibodies with the precision of oligonucleotide therapies. This approach allows Avidity to target previously undruggable tissue and cell types, thereby addressing the underlying genetic drivers of various diseases. The company's lead product candidate, AOC 1001, is designed to treat myotonic dystrophy type 1, a rare muscle disease. Additionally, Avidity is advancing multiple programs aimed at treating muscle-related conditions such as muscle atrophy, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy, and Pompe disease. Founded in 2012 and based in La Jolla, California, Avidity is also exploring therapeutic applications in immune and other cell types.

Hookipa Pharma

Series D in 2019
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.

BiomX

Series B in 2019
BiomX discovers and develops innovative microbiome therapeutics. The Company's mission is to develop novel therapeutics for preventing and treating diseases in which microbiome imbalances have been implicated. BiomX's microbiome modulation technologies are based on the cutting-edge innovative research of its scientific collaborators: Professor Rotem Sorek, PhD and Dr. Eran Elinav, MD, PhD both of the Weizmann Institute of Science and Professor Timothy K. Lu, MD, PhD of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Axcelead

Seed Round in 2018
Axcelead Drug Discovery Partners specializes in drug discovery services that connect foundational scientific research to clinical development. The company offers a comprehensive range of services that span from exploratory research to the optimization of candidate compounds. With a focus on scientific excellence and strong intellectual property protection, Axcelead operates state-of-the-art facilities accredited for good laboratory practices (GLP). This integrated approach allows clients to leverage Axcelead's expertise and technologies in early drug discovery, facilitating a smoother transition from basic research to clinical applications.

Avidity Biosciences

Series B in 2018
Avidity Biosciences, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing oligonucleotide-based therapies known as antibody oligonucleotide conjugates (AOCs). These innovative therapies aim to address the limitations of traditional oligonucleotide treatments by combining the tissue selectivity of monoclonal antibodies with the precision of oligonucleotide therapies. This approach allows Avidity to target previously undruggable tissue and cell types, thereby addressing the underlying genetic drivers of various diseases. The company's lead product candidate, AOC 1001, is designed to treat myotonic dystrophy type 1, a rare muscle disease. Additionally, Avidity is advancing multiple programs aimed at treating muscle-related conditions such as muscle atrophy, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy, and Pompe disease. Founded in 2012 and based in La Jolla, California, Avidity is also exploring therapeutic applications in immune and other cell types.

Bsense Bio Therapeutics

Seed Round in 2018
Bsense Bio Therapeutics develops small molecules for the treatment of sensory hyperexcitability related disorders. Bsense pioneers a novel approach targeting multiple hyperexcitability-related mechanisms using a single compound, to achieve greater efficacy and safety.

Reborna Biosciences

Seed Round in 2018
Reborna Biosciences Inc focuses on research and development in the field of genetic diseases, specifically targeting unmet medical needs associated with rare genetic disorders. Based in Fujisawa, Japan, the company develops therapeutic options that utilize a unique technology enabling low-molecular compounds to effectively target ribonucleic acid (RNA). This innovative approach facilitates the creation of disease-modifying drugs aimed at treating conditions such as spinal muscular atrophy and other rare genetic diseases. By leveraging the natural three-dimensional structure of RNA, Reborna Biosciences aims to normalize RNA function and improve treatment outcomes for patients suffering from these challenging conditions.

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.

Shire

Acquisition in 2018
Shire is a prominent biotechnology company headquartered in Ireland, dedicated to addressing the needs of individuals with rare diseases. With a strong global presence, it operates in key markets including the United States, Canada, the UK, and several major European countries. Shire's product portfolio is diverse, encompassing therapies for genetic diseases, neuroscience, internal medicine, hematology, immunology, and oncology. The company has expanded significantly through strategic mergers and acquisitions, such as the purchase of Transkaryotic Therapies, ViroPharma, NPS Pharma, Baxalta, and Dyax, which have bolstered its capabilities in various therapeutic areas. Shire emphasizes a patient-centered culture that fosters innovation, accountability, and ethical practices, aiming to enhance the quality of life for patients with life-altering conditions. The organization prioritizes employee development within a collaborative environment, enabling quick decision-making and adaptability in its operations.

Cerevance

Venture Round in 2018
Cerevance LLC is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative therapeutics for neurological and psychiatric disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and other chronic neurodegenerative conditions. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, with an additional office in Cambridge, United Kingdom, the company utilizes its NETSseq platform to profile specific brain cell types, including neurons and glial cells, using a repository of over 15,000 human brain tissue samples. This platform provides detailed expression and epigenetic data, allowing Cerevance to identify promising therapeutic targets for central nervous system diseases. Through its research, the company aims to advance new medicines that can potentially address the underlying mechanisms of these debilitating conditions.

SEEDSUPPLY

Seed Round in 2018
SEEDSUPPLY is a research and development company based in Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan, specializing in medical and agricultural chemical products. Established in May 2017 as a spin-off from Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, SEEDSUPPLY operates a drug discovery platform that focuses on the creation of small molecule drugs. Utilizing binder selection technology, the company addresses drug targets that are typically difficult to analyze with conventional high-throughput screening methods. This approach enables medical professionals to explore new avenues for discovering candidate compounds, thereby contributing to advancements in drug development.

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.

BiomX

Series A in 2017
BiomX discovers and develops innovative microbiome therapeutics. The Company's mission is to develop novel therapeutics for preventing and treating diseases in which microbiome imbalances have been implicated. BiomX's microbiome modulation technologies are based on the cutting-edge innovative research of its scientific collaborators: Professor Rotem Sorek, PhD and Dr. Eran Elinav, MD, PhD both of the Weizmann Institute of Science and Professor Timothy K. Lu, MD, PhD of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Cerevance

Series A in 2017
Cerevance LLC is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative therapeutics for neurological and psychiatric disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and other chronic neurodegenerative conditions. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, with an additional office in Cambridge, United Kingdom, the company utilizes its NETSseq platform to profile specific brain cell types, including neurons and glial cells, using a repository of over 15,000 human brain tissue samples. This platform provides detailed expression and epigenetic data, allowing Cerevance to identify promising therapeutic targets for central nervous system diseases. Through its research, the company aims to advance new medicines that can potentially address the underlying mechanisms of these debilitating conditions.

Scohia Pharma

Venture Round in 2017
Scohia Pharma, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Fujisawa, Japan, that specializes in researching, designing, and developing therapeutic drugs for metabolic, cardiovascular, and renal diseases. Established in 2017, the company focuses on addressing conditions such as obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and hypertension through its innovative pipeline of drug development programs. Scohia Pharma aims to enhance patient quality of life by providing new treatment options for patients and healthcare professionals, leveraging its substantial research and development capabilities while maintaining the agility to make swift decisions in the evolving pharmaceutical landscape.

Ariad Pharmaceuticals

Acquisition in 2017
Ariad Pharmaceuticals, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is an oncology-focused biotechnology company dedicated to the discovery, development, and commercialization of innovative cancer treatments. The company is known for its drug Iclusig (ponatinib), a tyrosine kinase inhibitor approved for adult patients with chronic myeloid leukemia and Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Additionally, Ariad is developing Brigatinib, aimed at treating non-small cell lung cancer, and AP32788, which targets non-small cell lung cancer and other solid tumors. Iclusig is marketed through specialty pharmacies in the United States. Ariad also has licensing agreements with Medinol Ltd. to develop medical devices related to its drug ridaforolimus. Founded in 1991, Ariad Pharmaceuticals operates as a subsidiary of Takeda Pharmaceuticals U.S.A., Inc. as of February 2017.

Cerevance

Series A in 2016
Cerevance LLC is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative therapeutics for neurological and psychiatric disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and other chronic neurodegenerative conditions. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, with an additional office in Cambridge, United Kingdom, the company utilizes its NETSseq platform to profile specific brain cell types, including neurons and glial cells, using a repository of over 15,000 human brain tissue samples. This platform provides detailed expression and epigenetic data, allowing Cerevance to identify promising therapeutic targets for central nervous system diseases. Through its research, the company aims to advance new medicines that can potentially address the underlying mechanisms of these debilitating conditions.

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.

Bridge Medicines

Venture Round in 2016
Bridge Medicines LLC is a biotechnology company based in New York, established in 2016. It specializes in drug discovery and the development of innovative therapeutics for various human diseases, particularly in oncology and rare diseases. The company collaborates with prominent institutions such as Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, The Rockefeller University, and Weill Cornell Medicine, as well as industry partners like Takeda Pharmaceutical Company. Bridge Medicines focuses on advancing technologies from academic research through to clinical development, with a notable emphasis on developing inhibitors for acute leukemias and small molecule inhibitors for hereditary angioedema and inflammatory disorders. The initiative aims to provide comprehensive support throughout the drug development process, from validating preclinical studies to advancing candidates into human clinical trials.

Emendo Biotherapeutics

Series A in 2016
EmendoBio, Inc. is focused on advancing the field of genome editing by developing innovative gene editing tools aimed at overcoming challenges in gene therapy. The company leverages expertise in protein engineering and DNA repair, combining insights from top academic institutions to create genetic medicines that address currently untreatable disorders and diseases. By transforming existing methodologies and employing creative approaches, EmendoBio seeks to resolve significant bottlenecks in gene therapy, enabling healthcare professionals to provide effective treatments where none previously existed. Through a commitment to pushing scientific boundaries, EmendoBio strives to deliver on the potential of gene editing for transformative medical solutions.

Bioniz Therapeutics

Series A in 2016
Bioniz Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to discovering and developing innovative peptide therapeutics aimed at treating immune diseases and cancer. Founded in 2009 and based in Irvine, California, Bioniz has a pipeline that includes BNZ-1, a selective inhibitor of interleukin cytokines IL-2, IL-9, and IL-15, which are significant contributors to conditions such as HTLV-1 Associated Myelopathy and T-cell leukemias. The company is also developing IL-15 and IL-21 inhibitors, along with BNZ-3, an early-stage asset targeting IL-4, IL-9, and IL-21 cytokines. Bioniz Therapeutics aims to complete proof of concept and preclinical studies for its lead technologies while seeking partnerships for clinical trials and commercialization, reflecting its commitment to enhancing global public health through novel therapeutic solutions.

Mersana Therapeutics

Series C in 2016
Mersana Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, specializing in the development of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) for cancer treatment. The company utilizes its proprietary biodegradable polymer platform, Dolaflexin, to create a pipeline of ADC product candidates aimed at addressing oncology indications with significant unmet needs. Its lead candidate, XMT-1536, is currently in Phase I clinical trials targeting NaPi2b for the treatment of ovarian cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, and other rare conditions. Mersana is also advancing additional candidates, including XMT-1660, targeting B7-H4, and XMT-2056, a STING agonist ADC, both designed to improve tolerability and therapeutic outcomes. The company has established strategic partnerships with Merck KGaA and Asana BioSciences to further develop its ADC candidates. Founded in 2005, Mersana Therapeutics aims to deliver innovative treatments to patients through its advanced research and development efforts.

Prosetta Biosciences

Series D in 2015
Prosetta Biosciences, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2002. It specializes in developing novel small-molecule antiviral therapeutics using an innovative drug discovery platform that employs cell-free protein synthesizing systems. This approach allows for the identification of active compounds that may be overlooked by traditional pharmaceutical screening methods. Prosetta's research addresses a broad range of human diseases, including oncology, neurodegenerative disorders, and infectious diseases, and the company collaborates with both commercial partners and non-profit organizations to advance its compounds. Through its efforts, Prosetta Biosciences aims to enable healthcare professionals to discover and utilize small molecules that effectively modulate the assembly of multi-protein complexes within cells.

Univercells

Venture Round in 2015
Univercells is a provider of biomanufacturing solutions focused on making biologics, including vaccines and therapeutics, more accessible and affordable. The company offers innovative technologies designed to reduce manufacturing costs significantly, achieving up to 90% savings on the cost of goods and over 75% in capital investment. Their approach utilizes single-use technologies and integrates three manufacturing steps—cell culture under perfusion, clarification, and capture—into a simulated continuous mode. Univercells also provides a range of biomanufacturing services, including scale-X hydro, scale-X carbo, and NevoLine, along with integrated support such as equipment confirmation, facility design, and bioprocess excellence. This comprehensive offering aids cell and gene therapy manufacturers in scaling their operations from research and development to commercial production, ultimately addressing global health challenges.

Encycle Therapeutics

Venture Round in 2015
Encycle Therapeutics is a Toronto-based biotech company exploiting a unique platform technology that enables the rapid synthesis of drug-like macrocycles or membrane-permeable nacellins. Nacellins have enormous potential to target intracellular protein-protein interactions, which are largely intractable to small molecule and biologic modulation, and can represent cheaper, oral equivalents to existing biologics (e.g., monoclonal antibodies). Encycle has collaborated with several pharmaceutical companies to complete a screening library of nacellins, many of which are cell-permeable and possess other drug-like properties. The company is also pursuing independent development of nacellins against integrin alpha-4-beta-7 (IBD) and SMURF2 (fibrosis); its lead program seeks to develop orally bioavailable inhibitors of integrin alpha-4-beta-7, which are safer and less immunogenic than marketed and investigational biologics targeting the same protein.

Naurex

Series C in 2014
Naurex Inc. is a clinical-stage company based in Evanston, Illinois, focused on developing innovative therapies for depression and other central nervous system disorders. The firm is pioneering a new mechanism for modulating the N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor (NMDAR), which distinguishes its approach from existing treatments. Researchers at Naurex have developed a new class of drugs known as glycine-site functional partial agonists (GFPAs), designed to safely modulate the NMDAR. The company's drug development pipeline includes its first-generation molecule, GLYX-13, and a second-generation series, NRX-1050, along with additional compounds derived from its platform of novel NMDAR modulators. Naurex aims to address significant unmet needs in psychiatry and neurology through these advancements.

Naurex

Series C in 2014
Naurex Inc. is a clinical-stage company based in Evanston, Illinois, focused on developing innovative therapies for depression and other central nervous system disorders. The firm is pioneering a new mechanism for modulating the N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor (NMDAR), which distinguishes its approach from existing treatments. Researchers at Naurex have developed a new class of drugs known as glycine-site functional partial agonists (GFPAs), designed to safely modulate the NMDAR. The company's drug development pipeline includes its first-generation molecule, GLYX-13, and a second-generation series, NRX-1050, along with additional compounds derived from its platform of novel NMDAR modulators. Naurex aims to address significant unmet needs in psychiatry and neurology through these advancements.

Seagen

Post in 2014
Seagen is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Bothell, Washington, that specializes in developing and commercializing monoclonal antibody-based therapies for cancer and autoimmune diseases. Founded in 1997, the company focuses on creating innovative cancer therapies, particularly antibody-drug conjugates, to treat various malignancies, including Hodgkin lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, urothelial cancer, and breast cancer. Its lead product, SGN-35, is undergoing pivotal trials for relapsed or refractory Hodgkin lymphoma. In addition to SGN-35, Seagen is advancing several other product candidates through various stages of clinical trials, including SGN-40, SGN-33, SGN-70, and SGN-75. The company has established collaborations with several prominent pharmaceutical firms, enhancing its research capabilities and drug development efforts. Through its commitment to innovative cancer therapies, Seagen aims to improve treatment outcomes for patients with diverse types of cancer.

VHSquared

Series A in 2013
VHsquared is dedicated to the development of novel antibody domains engineered to be stable in the GI tract. Their novel antibody platform will provide a portfolio of new and innovative functional food products to target gastrointestinal infectious and immune mediated diseases. There has been an explosion of interest in foods that have additional physiological benefits. VHsquared leverages the existing research and expertise at the Sanger Institute to facilitate the development of products that function at the GI mucosal interface harnessing recent technological developments, including analysis of the microbiota and advances in mucosal immunology. Conventional antibodies are degraded in the gut and therefore efficacy obtained from oral administration is limited. VHsquared uses domain antibodies that can be selected and engineered to resist degradation, are intrinsically very stable and are locally active in the gastrointestinal tract. Products will offer advantages in terms of specificity, safety, efficacy, convenience and cost.

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.

ArmaGen

Series A in 2012
ArmaGen, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in San Diego, California, focused on developing therapies for severe neurological diseases, particularly lysosomal storage disorders. The company's product pipeline includes AGT-182, aimed at treating Hunter syndrome, and AGT-181, designed for Hurler syndrome. ArmaGen's innovative therapies are engineered to penetrate the blood-brain barrier, addressing neurological complications associated with various conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Founded in 2001, ArmaGen aims to enhance treatment options for patients suffering from these challenging disorders.

Envoy Therapeutics

Acquisition in 2012
Envoy Therapeutics focuses on drug discovery with the aim of developing new medications that demonstrate improved efficacy and reduced side effects compared to existing treatments. Utilizing its innovative bacTRAP® technology, the company identifies proteins produced by specific cell types in vivo, eliminating the need for cell isolation. This capability is particularly significant in brain tissues, where numerous cell types are closely intermingled. By allowing for the targeted modulation of specific cell types based on their unique protein expression, Envoy Therapeutics enhances the possibilities for therapeutic interventions, marking a significant advancement in the field of drug discovery.

Redwood Bioscience

Venture Round in 2011
Redwood Bioscience is focused on advancing biotherapeutics through precision protein-chemical engineering. Founded in 2008 and based in Emeryville, California, the company specializes in site-specific modification technology, which addresses the challenges of conjugating biologics with synthetic molecules. This innovative approach enables the creation of optimized and novel hybrid biotherapeutics, including antibody-drug conjugates and other semi-synthetic products. By combining the binding specificity and extended half-life of biologic carriers with the potency of small molecules and synthetic peptides, Redwood Bioscience aims to enhance therapeutic efficacy.

Domainex

Venture Round in 2010
Domainex Ltd. is a biotechnology company based in Saffron Walden, United Kingdom, specializing in contract research and contract manufacturing services focused on drug discovery. Established in 2001, the company offers a comprehensive range of services including medicinal chemistry, computational chemistry, protein expression and purification, biochemical assay development, and DMPK analysis. Domainex also employs advanced technologies for hit identification and combinatorial domain hunting. The company is particularly noted for its work in developing innovative treatments for inflammatory diseases, such as DMXD-011, a small-molecule inhibitor targeting TBK1/IKKε/SIK2 for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Through its capabilities in biology and chemistry, Domainex aims to assist healthcare professionals in addressing complex drug discovery challenges, particularly in oncology and related fields.

Envoy Therapeutics

Series A in 2009
Envoy Therapeutics focuses on drug discovery with the aim of developing new medications that demonstrate improved efficacy and reduced side effects compared to existing treatments. Utilizing its innovative bacTRAP® technology, the company identifies proteins produced by specific cell types in vivo, eliminating the need for cell isolation. This capability is particularly significant in brain tissues, where numerous cell types are closely intermingled. By allowing for the targeted modulation of specific cell types based on their unique protein expression, Envoy Therapeutics enhances the possibilities for therapeutic interventions, marking a significant advancement in the field of drug discovery.

Takeda Bio Development Center

Acquisition in 2008
Takeda Bio Development Center Limited engages in the discovery, development, manufacture, and marketing of human therapeutics based on advances in cellular and molecular biology. Takeda Bio Development Center Ltd. was formerly known as Amgen Kabushiki Kaisha. As a result of the acquisition of Amgen Kabushiki Kaisha by Takeda Pharmaceutical Co., Amgen Kabushiki Kaisha's name was changed. As of April 1, 2008, Takeda Bio Development Center Ltd. operates as a subsidiary of Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd.

CellCentric

Venture Round in 2007
CellCentric’s primary programme targets a deubiquitinase (DUB) enzyme which is strongly associated with prostate cancer, a leading cause of mortality among men. The target modulates the androgen receptor pathway and can potentially combat the multiple resistance mechanisms seen with recently approved prostate cancer drugs such Xtandi and Zytiga. The programme also has potential clinical utility in non-small cell lung, breast and colon cancer.

Xenon Pharmaceuticals

Private Equity Round in 2006
Xenon Pharmaceuticals Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Burnaby, Canada, focused on developing therapeutics for neurological disorders. The company's clinical pipeline includes several product candidates aimed at treating epilepsy, such as XEN496 and XEN1101, both Kv7 potassium channel modulators currently in Phase II trials, and XEN901, a selective Nav1.6 sodium channel inhibitor in Phase I trials. Additionally, Xenon is developing XEN007, a central nervous system-acting calcium channel modulator, also in Phase I trials. The company leverages insights from genetic research, particularly from families with severe phenotypes, to identify drug targets, which may extend beyond rare genetic disorders. Furthermore, Xenon has established a collaboration with Neurocrine Biosciences to advance the development of innovative epilepsy treatments.

Symphogen

Series D in 2006
Symphogen specializes in the development of recombinant polyclonal antibodies (rpAb), a novel class of biopharmaceuticals aimed at treating and preventing serious human diseases, including infectious diseases and cancer. The company has created compositions of recombinant polyclonal antibodies for specific medical applications, such as the treatment of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura and the prevention of hemolytic disease in newborns. These innovations help mitigate adverse reactions from smallpox vaccinations and facilitate quicker treatment initiation for cancer patients, ultimately improving the chances of successful outcomes.

Receptor BioLogix

Series A in 2005
Receptor BioLogix is a biotechnology company based in Palo Alto, California, focused on developing receptor-based biological therapeutics for the treatment of cancer, inflammatory, and autoimmune diseases. The company has created Hermodulins, which are pan-HER ligand traps designed to inhibit feedback mechanisms that can reduce the effectiveness of various cancer therapies. These innovations have shown anti-cancer potential in preclinical studies. Additionally, Receptor BioLogix is advancing its Intron Fusion Protein platform, which aims to discover novel splice variants of human proteins that may possess therapeutic potential.

Syrrx

Acquisition in 2005
Syrrx Inc focuses on drug targets that have been validated in human clinical trials and directs its efforts toward therapeutics to treat metabolic diseases, cancer, and inflammation. Syrrx exploits its competitive advantage in high-throughput structural biology to be the first organization to determine the three dimensional structure of known drug targets. Syrrx then uses these structures to drive iterative, structure-based drug design programs to efficiently generate potential drug candidates. Syrrx has an ongoing partnership for the development and commercialization of Syrrx-designed human dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP IV) inhibitors as drug products for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and other major human diseases. Syrrx also has a strategic alliance for the discovery and early development of inhibitors targeting human HDACs and HSD1.
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