Takeda Ventures

Takeda Ventures, Inc. is the venture capital arm of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company, focusing on investments in the healthcare and life sciences sectors. Established in 2001 and based in Palo Alto, California, the firm engages in both direct and fund-of-fund investing, targeting seed, startup, early, mid-stage, and mid-venture capital opportunities. Takeda Ventures emphasizes therapeutic innovation, particularly in areas such as cardiovascular diseases, chronic inflammatory and immune disorders, central nervous system conditions, metabolic disorders, gastroenterology, renal diseases, oncology, and regenerative medicine. The firm typically invests between $0.25 million and $5 million, preferring to take minority stakes while collaborating with other investors. Takeda Ventures does not invest in gene therapy, anti-infective products, medical devices, or diagnostics. It aims to facilitate therapeutic discovery alliances and foster synergies with Takeda's extensive R&D capabilities, supporting entrepreneurs and early-stage companies from preclinical development to clinical proof of concept. The firm primarily focuses its investments in the United States, Canada, and Europe.

Jiaping Gu

Partner

Andrew Plump

President, Research and Development

Victor Stone

Partner

Suzie Yoon

Investment Principal

Past deals in Life Science

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.

Be Biopharma

Series B in 2022
Be Biopharma, Inc. is focused on developing innovative therapeutics derived from engineered B-cells within the immune system. The company aims to address significant limitations associated with existing cell and gene therapies, such as the challenges of administering multiple doses, unpredictable patient reactions, and the necessity of potentially harmful chemotherapy regimens prior to treatment. Be Biopharma's approach allows for the creation of durable therapies that can be re-administered without toxic conditioning, making these treatments suitable for a range of diseases, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases. Founded in 2020, Be Biopharma is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Ambys Medicines

Series A in 2021
Ambys Medicines, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Redwood City, California, founded in 2016. The company focuses on discovering and developing innovative therapies for severe liver diseases. Its approach includes gene therapy, drug therapy, and cell therapy, aiming to restore liver function, halt the progression of liver disease, and address the serious complications associated with liver failure. Through its research and development efforts, Ambys Medicines seeks to significantly improve the quality of life for individuals affected by liver-related health issues.

StrideBio

Series B in 2021
StrideBio, Inc. is a gene therapy company based in Durham, North Carolina, specializing in the development of adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector technologies and therapeutics aimed at treating rare diseases. Founded in 2015, the company employs a unique STRucture Inspired DEsign approach that merges structural knowledge with accelerated evolution to create innovative AAV capsids. This technology is designed to evade neutralizing antibodies, thereby enhancing gene transfer efficiency. StrideBio's platform supports various gene therapy modalities, including gene addition, gene silencing, and gene editing, with applications across a range of rare genetic disorders.

Ensoma

Series A in 2021
Ensoma is expanding the reach of the curative power of genomic medicine by pioneering a next-generation in vivo approach using its Engenious™ vectors. Ensoma’s vectors are designed to deliver a diverse range of gene modification technologies without the need for stem cell collection or prior myeloablative conditioning (e.g., chemotherapy). As a result, Ensoma’s therapies can be delivered as a single injection in a diverse range of settings, including outpatient and settings where access to sophisticated healthcare systems may be limited.

Be Biopharma

Series A in 2020
Be Biopharma, Inc. is focused on developing innovative therapeutics derived from engineered B-cells within the immune system. The company aims to address significant limitations associated with existing cell and gene therapies, such as the challenges of administering multiple doses, unpredictable patient reactions, and the necessity of potentially harmful chemotherapy regimens prior to treatment. Be Biopharma's approach allows for the creation of durable therapies that can be re-administered without toxic conditioning, making these treatments suitable for a range of diseases, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases. Founded in 2020, Be Biopharma is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

VelosBio

Series B in 2020
VelosBio, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Diego, California, focused on developing innovative antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) to treat hematological cancers and solid tumors. The company specializes in therapies targeting receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1), a cell-surface protein commonly found in various tumors but absent in normal tissues, making it a promising target for cancer treatment. Its lead product, VLS-101, is designed as a ROR1-directed ADC aimed at patients with both hematologic and solid tumor malignancies. Founded in 2017, VelosBio has demonstrated positive preclinical results for its ROR1-directed therapeutics, paving the way for potential use in monotherapy or in combination with other treatments across a wide range of cancers. As of late 2020, VelosBio operates as a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc.

Enterome

Series E in 2020
Enterome SA is a biotechnology company based in Paris, France, with an additional office in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Founded in 2008, it specializes in disease management solutions that leverage its understanding of the gut microbiome. The company focuses on developing biomarkers, companion diagnostics, and therapeutics aimed at treating various microbiome-related diseases, including inflammatory bowel diseases and metabolic disorders. Enterome's innovative approach involves identifying bioactive molecules differentially expressed by the gut microbiome, which are crucial for regulating human physiology and immune responses. The company has established a strategic collaboration with Takeda Pharmaceutical Company to enhance its research and development efforts. By integrating its expertise in the gut microbiome with therapeutic development, Enterome aims to create targeted solutions for complex health challenges.

EvolveImmune Therapeutics

Venture Round in 2020
EvolveImmune Therapeutics transforms the discovery and development of novel immunotherapies. By leveraging its proprietary in vivo target discovery platform, EvolveImmune is building a pipeline of novel therapeutic candidates against numerous targets that are expressed on multiple immune cell types. The company’s platform will generate first-in-class treatments for unmet needs in oncology and autoimmune diseases.

BiomX

Series B in 2019
BiomX Inc. is a clinical-stage company based in Ness Ziona, Israel, focused on developing bacteriophage-based therapies that target harmful bacteria linked to various diseases. The company aims to treat conditions associated with microbiome imbalances, including skin conditions, inflammatory bowel diseases, liver disorders, and colorectal cancer. BiomX's lead product candidates include BX001, which addresses skin appearance issues, BX002 for inflammatory bowel disease, BX003 for bacteria related to progressive liver disease, and BX004 targeting chronic pulmonary infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The company collaborates with notable institutions such as The Weizmann Institute of Science, Takeda, Keio University, JSR Corporation, and Janssen Research & Development to advance its microbiome-based therapeutic products. Founded in 2015, BiomX leverages innovative research from its scientific collaborators to develop novel therapeutics aimed at improving health outcomes.

VelosBio

Series A in 2018
VelosBio, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Diego, California, focused on developing innovative antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) to treat hematological cancers and solid tumors. The company specializes in therapies targeting receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1), a cell-surface protein commonly found in various tumors but absent in normal tissues, making it a promising target for cancer treatment. Its lead product, VLS-101, is designed as a ROR1-directed ADC aimed at patients with both hematologic and solid tumor malignancies. Founded in 2017, VelosBio has demonstrated positive preclinical results for its ROR1-directed therapeutics, paving the way for potential use in monotherapy or in combination with other treatments across a wide range of cancers. As of late 2020, VelosBio operates as a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc.

Ambys Medicines

Series A in 2018
Ambys Medicines, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Redwood City, California, founded in 2016. The company focuses on discovering and developing innovative therapies for severe liver diseases. Its approach includes gene therapy, drug therapy, and cell therapy, aiming to restore liver function, halt the progression of liver disease, and address the serious complications associated with liver failure. Through its research and development efforts, Ambys Medicines seeks to significantly improve the quality of life for individuals affected by liver-related health issues.

Ambys Medicines

Corporate Round in 2018
Ambys Medicines, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Redwood City, California, founded in 2016. The company focuses on discovering and developing innovative therapies for severe liver diseases. Its approach includes gene therapy, drug therapy, and cell therapy, aiming to restore liver function, halt the progression of liver disease, and address the serious complications associated with liver failure. Through its research and development efforts, Ambys Medicines seeks to significantly improve the quality of life for individuals affected by liver-related health issues.

StrideBio

Series A in 2018
StrideBio, Inc. is a gene therapy company based in Durham, North Carolina, specializing in the development of adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector technologies and therapeutics aimed at treating rare diseases. Founded in 2015, the company employs a unique STRucture Inspired DEsign approach that merges structural knowledge with accelerated evolution to create innovative AAV capsids. This technology is designed to evade neutralizing antibodies, thereby enhancing gene transfer efficiency. StrideBio's platform supports various gene therapy modalities, including gene addition, gene silencing, and gene editing, with applications across a range of rare genetic disorders.

Shire

Acquisition in 2018
Shire is a global biotechnology company based in Ireland, dedicated to developing treatments for rare diseases and specialty conditions. Founded in 1986, the company has built a strong sales and marketing infrastructure, offering a diverse portfolio of products across several countries, including the US, Canada, and various European nations. Shire's mission emphasizes improving the lives of individuals with life-altering conditions, fostering a patient-centric culture that encourages innovation and inclusivity among its employees. Following its acquisition by Takeda Pharmaceutical Company in January 2019, Shire continues to focus on ethical practices and the recruitment and development of top talent. The company operates with a non-hierarchical structure that facilitates quick decision-making and empowers employees to reach their full potential while remaining committed to making a positive impact on the lives of patients worldwide.

WaVe Life Sciences

Post in 2018
WaVe Life Sciences Ltd. is a clinical stage genetic medicine company focused on developing novel stereopure oligonucleotides through its proprietary PRISM platform. The company aims to address genetic defects by either reducing the expression of harmful proteins or converting dysfunctional mutant proteins into functional ones. It primarily concentrates on neurological disorders affecting the central and neuromuscular systems. WaVe Life Sciences has established research and collaboration agreements with major pharmaceutical companies to advance its oligonucleotide therapeutics. Founded in 2012, the company is headquartered in Singapore and maintains research facilities in Boston and Japan. The organization was established by leading scientists in the field of chemistry and life sciences, underscoring its commitment to innovative approaches in nucleic acid therapeutics.

SEEDSUPPLY

Seed Round in 2018
SEEDSUPPLY research and develops medical and agricultural chemical products. The company is a spin-off of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited and established in May 2017 and is headquartered in Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan.

BiomX

Series A in 2017
BiomX Inc. is a clinical-stage company based in Ness Ziona, Israel, focused on developing bacteriophage-based therapies that target harmful bacteria linked to various diseases. The company aims to treat conditions associated with microbiome imbalances, including skin conditions, inflammatory bowel diseases, liver disorders, and colorectal cancer. BiomX's lead product candidates include BX001, which addresses skin appearance issues, BX002 for inflammatory bowel disease, BX003 for bacteria related to progressive liver disease, and BX004 targeting chronic pulmonary infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The company collaborates with notable institutions such as The Weizmann Institute of Science, Takeda, Keio University, JSR Corporation, and Janssen Research & Development to advance its microbiome-based therapeutic products. Founded in 2015, BiomX leverages innovative research from its scientific collaborators to develop novel therapeutics aimed at improving health outcomes.

Scohia Pharma

Venture Round in 2017
Scohia Pharma is a biotech venture that will have both substantial research and development resources and be nimble enough to make decisions quickly, will strive to improve patient quality of life by providing patients and healthcare professionals with new therapeutic medications for renal, metabolic.

Prosetta Biosciences

Series D in 2015
Prosetta Biosciences, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2002. The company specializes in the development of novel small-molecule antiviral therapeutics, utilizing a unique cell-free protein synthesizing systems platform for drug discovery. This approach enables the identification of small molecules that might be overlooked by conventional pharmaceutical screening methods. Prosetta is also engaged in partnerships with commercial and non-profit organizations to advance its research in oncology, neurodegenerative diseases, and infectious diseases. By focusing on small molecules that can modulate the assembly of multi-protein complexes within cells, Prosetta aims to address a broad range of human diseases and enhance therapeutic options for healthcare professionals.

Ligocyte Pharmaceuticals

Acquisition in 2012
LigoCyte Pharmaceuticals specializes in the development of innovative vaccines and therapeutic monoclonal antibodies aimed at addressing inflammatory and infectious diseases. The company focuses on creating commercial vaccines and biodefense products, including Norovirus VLP Vaccines and an Influenza VLP Vaccine, which offer protection against multiple strains of the virus without causing infection. Additionally, LigoCyte is advancing an anthrax vaccine and the Anti-CD103 Monoclonal Antibody, which plays a role in the retention of activated lymphocytes in areas of inflammation. By concentrating on immunomodulatory drugs that target the underlying disease processes, LigoCyte is well-positioned for growth in the biotechnology sector and is advancing its proprietary products into human clinical testing.

Redwood Bioscience

Venture Round in 2011
Redwood Bioscience specializes in precision protein-chemical engineering to create optimized biotherapeutics. The company employs site-specific modification technology, which addresses the challenges of conjugating biologics with synthetic molecules, resulting in homogeneous hybrid biotherapeutics. These hybrid drugs combine the specificity and extended half-life of biologics with the potency of synthetic peptides and small molecules. By utilizing modified carrier scaffolds, Redwood develops peptide therapeutics aimed at enhancing serum half-lives and antibody-drug conjugates that exhibit improved potency and reduced toxicity. Additionally, the company is expanding the chemical space of protein drugs by creating heterofunctional products with unique architectures. Redwood collaborates with partners to enhance the value of existing programs and to jointly develop innovative compounds while also pursuing its own internal biotherapeutic programs.

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.

Serenex

Series D in 2007
Serenex is a medical drug discovery and development company that focuses on oncology. The company develops Hsp90 product platform that provides a collection of small molecule Hsp90 inhibitors for cancer, inflammatory diseases, fungal infection resistance, viral diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's. It also develops SNX-1012, a product for oral mucositis in solid tumor patients. Serenex is a U.S.-based company that was founded in 2000 and it was acquired in 2008 by Pfizer.

Serenex

Series C in 2005
Serenex is a medical drug discovery and development company that focuses on oncology. The company develops Hsp90 product platform that provides a collection of small molecule Hsp90 inhibitors for cancer, inflammatory diseases, fungal infection resistance, viral diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's. It also develops SNX-1012, a product for oral mucositis in solid tumor patients. Serenex is a U.S.-based company that was founded in 2000 and it was acquired in 2008 by Pfizer.

Receptor BioLogix

Series A in 2005
Receptor Biologix develops receptor-based biological therapeutics for cancer, inflammatory, and autoimmune diseases. The company is headquartered in Palo Alto, California.

Syrrx

Acquisition in 2005
Syrrx Inc is a biotechnology company that specializes in developing novel small molecule drugs aimed at treating cancer, metabolic diseases, and inflammation. The company focuses on drug targets that have been validated in human clinical trials, employing high-throughput structural biology to determine the three-dimensional structures of these targets. This structural insight allows Syrrx to conduct iterative, structure-based drug design programs to efficiently generate potential drug candidates. The company has established partnerships for the development and commercialization of its designed dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP IV) inhibitors for treating type 2 diabetes and other significant diseases. Additionally, Syrrx has formed strategic alliances aimed at discovering and early developing inhibitors that target human histone deacetylases (HDACs) and 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (HSD1).

BioNumerik Pharmaceuticals

Private Equity Round in 2004
BioNumerik Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is dedicated to the discovery, development, and commercialization of innovative drugs for cancer treatment and supportive care. The company's primary products include Tavocept, which is utilized for both oncology and non-oncology indications, and Karenitecin, a novel anti-tumor agent belonging to the camptothecin class of chemotherapy drugs. Additionally, BioNumerik is engaged in various oncology research programs, focusing on preclinical development in areas such as DNA methyltransferase modulators, novel platinum compounds, small molecule Bcl-2 inhibitors, and innovative taxane formulations, among others. Established in 1992 and headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, BioNumerik aims to advance cancer therapies through a multidisciplinary approach that combines insights from chemistry, biology, and advanced supercomputing to enhance drug discovery and development processes.

Serenex

Venture Round in 2004
Serenex is a medical drug discovery and development company that focuses on oncology. The company develops Hsp90 product platform that provides a collection of small molecule Hsp90 inhibitors for cancer, inflammatory diseases, fungal infection resistance, viral diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's. It also develops SNX-1012, a product for oral mucositis in solid tumor patients. Serenex is a U.S.-based company that was founded in 2000 and it was acquired in 2008 by Pfizer.
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