GENFIT is a late-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing innovative therapeutic and diagnostic solutions for metabolic and liver-related diseases, areas characterized by significant unmet medical needs. The company employs a unique approach to drug discovery, focusing on specific nuclear receptors as targets and utilizing rational drug design to optimize its drug candidates. GENFIT's research is bolstered by a strong foundation of in-house expertise and a commitment to excellence, enabling the organization to create a robust scientific platform for developing its therapeutic and diagnostic tools. Co-founded by Professor Bart Staels, a recognized authority in nuclear receptors, GENFIT benefits from his leadership on the Scientific Advisory Board, which provides invaluable experience and guidance. The company engages in strategic partnerships, acquisitions, and licensing agreements to support its research and development endeavors, with the marketing of its products contingent upon successful clinical development.
Esperion discovers and develops pharmaceutical products for the treatment of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Esperion intends to commercialize a novel class of drugs that focuses on a new treatment approach called "HDL Therapy," which is based on the Company's understanding of high-density lipoprotein, or HDL, function.
Liquidia Technologies is a clinical biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing and commercializing therapeutics that address unmet patient needs, primarily through its proprietary PRINT technology. This particle engineering platform allows for the precise production of uniform drug particles, enhancing the safety and efficacy of various treatments. The company is currently advancing two key product candidates: LIQ861, aimed at treating pulmonary arterial hypertension, and LIQ865, designed for managing local post-operative pain. In addition to its internal pipeline, Liquidia collaborates with leading pharmaceutical companies to leverage its PRINT technology across diverse therapeutic areas and drug types. One of its marketed products is YUTREPIA, an inhalation powder for treating pulmonary arterial hypertension.
TG Therapeutics, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in New York that specializes in the development and commercialization of treatments for B-cell malignancies and autoimmune diseases. The company has a strong focus on creating therapies through its B-cell directed research and development platform. Its lead product, Ublituximab, a glycoengineered monoclonal antibody, is approved for treating relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis and is also being evaluated for non-Hodgkin lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Additionally, TG Therapeutics is advancing TG-1701, a selective Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor, and TG-1801, a bispecific antibody targeting CD47 and CD19. The company is engaged in various preclinical programs and has established strategic partnerships with several biotechnology firms to enhance its research capabilities.
OPKO Health, Inc. is a multinational healthcare company engaged in the diagnostics and pharmaceuticals sectors. Its Diagnostics segment includes BioReference Laboratories, which provides various laboratory testing services, including core genetic testing and specialized tests like the 4Kscore prostate cancer test. The Pharmaceuticals segment offers treatments such as Rayaldee for secondary hyperparathyroidism and OPK88004, a selective androgen receptor modulator. Additionally, it is developing several drugs, including a once-weekly human growth hormone injection and therapies for diabetes, chemotherapy-induced nausea, and hemophilia. OPKO also produces specialty active pharmaceutical ingredients and develops drugs targeting cancer, cardiovascular conditions, metabolic disorders, and genetic anomalies. The company operates in multiple countries, including the United States, Ireland, and Spain, and is involved in the commercialization of pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and veterinary products, as well as generics and over-the-counter items. Founded in 1991 and headquartered in Miami, Florida, OPKO aims to leverage its capabilities and technologies to drive growth and expand its market presence.
Zevra Therapeutics is a development-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the discovery and development of innovative therapies for pain, ADHD, and other central nervous system diseases. The company is particularly focused on creating safer, abuse-resistant opioid pain relievers. Utilizing its proprietary Ligand Activated Therapy (LAT) platform, Zevra aims to enhance existing drugs and streamline the development process while safeguarding its intellectual property. Additionally, Zevra addresses the needs of patients with rare diseases by employing unique, data-driven strategies to overcome challenges in drug development. The company's mission centers on delivering transformative therapies to individuals facing limited or no treatment options, ultimately striving to improve the quality of life for those affected by these conditions.
Liquidia Technologies is a clinical biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing and commercializing therapeutics that address unmet patient needs, primarily through its proprietary PRINT technology. This particle engineering platform allows for the precise production of uniform drug particles, enhancing the safety and efficacy of various treatments. The company is currently advancing two key product candidates: LIQ861, aimed at treating pulmonary arterial hypertension, and LIQ865, designed for managing local post-operative pain. In addition to its internal pipeline, Liquidia collaborates with leading pharmaceutical companies to leverage its PRINT technology across diverse therapeutic areas and drug types. One of its marketed products is YUTREPIA, an inhalation powder for treating pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Cara Therapeutics is an emerging biotechnology company focused on developing novel therapeutics to treat human diseases associated with pain and inflammation. Cara possesses both near-term clinical development opportunities combined with proprietary approaches to developing first-in-class novel therapeutics. Cara's most advanced patented compound, CR845, is currently undergoing clinical testing for acute pain and pruritis. This best-in-class compound possesses unique analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities appropriate for multiple therapeutic applications. In addition, Cara aims to develop a future pipeline of first-in-class molecules at novel analgesic and anti-inflammatory targets using its proprietary drug screening technology.
Liquidia Technologies is a clinical biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing and commercializing therapeutics that address unmet patient needs, primarily through its proprietary PRINT technology. This particle engineering platform allows for the precise production of uniform drug particles, enhancing the safety and efficacy of various treatments. The company is currently advancing two key product candidates: LIQ861, aimed at treating pulmonary arterial hypertension, and LIQ865, designed for managing local post-operative pain. In addition to its internal pipeline, Liquidia collaborates with leading pharmaceutical companies to leverage its PRINT technology across diverse therapeutic areas and drug types. One of its marketed products is YUTREPIA, an inhalation powder for treating pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Clearside Biomedical is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing and delivering treatments for serious eye diseases, aiming to restore and preserve vision. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia, the company employs a proprietary ocular microinjection platform that allows for targeted delivery of therapeutic agents to specific compartments of the eye, such as the retina and choroid. Among its products, XIPERE is a triamcinolone acetonide injectable suspension designed for treating macular edema linked to conditions like uveitis and diabetic macular edema. Additionally, the company's CLS-AX is being developed as an axitinib formulation for suprachoroidal injection. Clearside's innovative approach provides a non-surgical and repeatable method for administering therapies, which could significantly benefit patients with sight-threatening eye diseases.
Ardelyx, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company specializing in the development and commercialization of innovative oral therapeutics for cardiorenal diseases. Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Fremont, California, the company focuses on addressing significant unmet medical needs through first-in-class medicines. Its lead product candidate, tenapanor, has completed Phase 3 clinical trials for treating irritable bowel syndrome with constipation and hyperphosphatemia in end-stage renal disease patients on dialysis. Additionally, Ardelyx is advancing RDX013, a small molecule potassium secretagogue targeting hyperkalemia, and has other candidates in its pipeline, including RDX002 and RDX009, which are in preclinical development for chronic kidney disease and type 2 diabetes, respectively. Ardelyx employs a proprietary drug discovery platform aimed at creating non-systemic products that target specific transporters and receptors to minimize side effects associated with systemic exposure.
Rhythm is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing and commercializing peptide therapeutics for the treatment of rare genetic deficiencies that result in life-threatening metabolic disorders. Their lead peptide product candidate, setmelanotide, is a potent, first-in-class melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) agonist for the treatment of rare genetic disorders of obesity. They believe that setmelanotide, for which they have exclusive worldwide rights, has the potential to serve as replacement therapy for the treatment of melanocortin 4, or MC4, pathway deficiencies. The MC4 pathway is a compelling target for treating these genetic disorders because of its critical role in regulating appetite and weight, and peptide therapeutics are uniquely suited to activating this target.
Spero Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, dedicated to developing innovative treatments for multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacterial infections and rare diseases. The company’s leading product candidate, tebipenem pivoxil hydrobromide, is an oral antibiotic designed to treat MDR Gram-negative infections in adults. Additionally, Spero is advancing SPR206, an intravenous agent targeting MDR Gram-negative infections, and SPR720, an oral antibiotic aimed at treating pulmonary non-tuberculous mycobacterial disease. Spero Therapeutics collaborates with various organizations, including Meiji Seika Pharma for tebipenem HBr, Everest Medicines for SPR206 in Asia, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Medical Research Institute for SPR720. Founded in 2013, Spero leverages a strong team in chemistry and microbiology to address significant unmet medical needs in infectious disease treatment.
Portola Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company, discovers and develops therapeutics for acute and chronic cardiovascular and autoimmune/inflammatory diseases. The company's products include PRT054021, an oral factor Xa inhibitor for the prevention and treatment of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism after orthopedic surgery; for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation; and for secondary prevention of myocardial infarction and stroke. Its products also include PRT060128, an oral and intravenous ADP receptor antagonist for the treatment of patients with acute coronary syndrome; for the prevention of cardiovascular events in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention; and for secondary prevention of myocardial infarction and stroke. In addition, the company's products include PRT062607, an oral Syk-specific kinase inhibitor for treating chronic inflammatory diseases and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) which is used to treat certain cancers including non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Portola Pharmaceuticals, Inc. was founded in 2003 and is based in South San Francisco, California.
Coherus Biosciences is a biopharmaceutical company that specializes in the development, manufacture, and commercialization of biologic therapeutics, with a primary focus on oncology and inflammatory diseases. The company has established a portfolio of FDA-approved products, including UDENYCA, a biosimilar to Neulasta, and is preparing to launch YUSIMRY, a biosimilar to Humira, in the United States in 2023. Coherus's development efforts emphasize process science, analytical characterization, and clinical-regulatory development. The company's pipeline includes candidates for Immunology, ophthalmology, and oncology, particularly targeting anti-tumor necrosis factor therapies. By leveraging its diverse portfolio, Coherus aims to build a robust immuno-oncology franchise while generating revenue primarily from the U.S. market.
TearScience, Inc. is a medical device company based in Morrisville, North Carolina, focused on the identification, diagnosis, and treatment of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), which is the primary cause of evaporative dry eye affecting over 100 million people globally. The company has developed innovative devices such as the LipiFlow Activator, which delivers automated therapeutic energies to meibomian glands while safeguarding the eye's delicate structures, and LipiScan, an imaging system that allows eye care professionals to assess gland health. MGD is often under-recognized and contributes significantly to dry eye symptoms such as irritation, dryness, and visual disturbances. By providing a comprehensive in-office system, TearScience enables eye care professionals to effectively address the root causes of evaporative dry eye, ultimately improving patient outcomes. The company, originally known as Kolis Scientific, Inc., was rebranded in 2005 and is now a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson Surgical Vision, Inc.
Private Equity Round in 2015
Invuity, Inc. is a medical technology company based in San Francisco, California, focused on developing and marketing advanced surgical devices in the United States and Asia. Utilizing its intelligent photonics technology platform, Invuity creates both single-use and reusable illuminated surgical devices that enhance visualization during surgical procedures. The company's product lineup includes various illuminated retractors and handheld illuminators designed for a range of specialties, such as breast, orthopedic, gynecological, and spinal surgeries. Notable offerings include the Eikon LT illuminated retractor system, Eiberg illuminated retractors, and the PhotonBlade and PhotonSaber series, which provide targeted illumination to improve surgical outcomes. Invuity sells its devices through direct sales representatives, independent agents, and directly to hospitals and surgeons, as well as to third-party medical device manufacturers. Previously known as Spotlight Surgical, Inc., Invuity was founded in 2004 and operates as a subsidiary of Stryker Corporation.
Helomics Corporation is a personalized healthcare company focused on oncology, providing innovative tools to assist physicians and patients in making informed decisions throughout the cancer care continuum. It has developed a Precision Cellular Analytical Platform that analyzes cellular data over a 25-35 day period. Among its key products are ChemoFx, which aids in selecting effective treatments for gynecologic cancer patients; BioSpeciFx, offering biomarker tests for evaluating tumor responses at the molecular level; and GeneFx products, which use gene signatures to inform treatment options for colon and lung cancer patients. Additionally, Helomics provides tumor profiling services, including bioinformatics and patient-derived tumor models, which enhance clinical research and drug development. The company employs artificial intelligence through its D-CHIP platform to create personalized oncology roadmaps for patients. Founded in 1995 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Helomics operates as a subsidiary of Predictive Oncology Inc.
Cardiorentis AG is a biopharmaceutical company based in Zug, Switzerland, that focuses on developing drug therapies for acute heart failure and related cardiovascular diseases. Founded in 2010, the company is known for its lead product, ularitide, an intravenous infusion treatment aimed at addressing acute heart failure. Cardiorentis is conducting clinical studies, including the TRUE-AHF trial and the SIRIUS I and II studies, to evaluate the safety and efficacy of ularitide in patients with symptomatic and decompensated chronic heart failure. The company employs a disease-based technology platform that combines protein biology with the design of small molecule compounds and peptides. By fostering strong partnerships with academic researchers and clinicians, Cardiorentis aims to advance scientific knowledge and improve patient outcomes in the realm of cardiovascular care.
AcuFocus, Inc. is an ophthalmic medical device company based in Irvine, California, specializing in small aperture technologies aimed at enhancing near vision. The company offers the KAMRA inlay, designed to restore near vision for presbyopic patients while preserving distance vision. Additionally, AcuFocus develops the IC-8 IOL, a small aperture lens that facilitates a range of vision for patients with cataracts. The AcuTarget HD is another key product, serving as a diagnostic and surgical planning instrument for various vision correction procedures, including LASIK and cataract surgeries. AcuFocus markets its products through distribution partners across the Americas, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East, addressing the needs of both physicians and patients in the vision care sector. Founded in 2001, AcuFocus continues to focus on innovative solutions for vision-related challenges.
Raptor Pharmaceuticals is a biotechnology company based in Novato, California, focused on the development of therapies for debilitating and life-threatening diseases. The company is engaged in the discovery, research, and preclinical development of drug candidates targeting brain disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, genetic disorders, and cancer. Raptor's clinical-stage products include DR Cysteamine, which is undergoing Phase IIb trials for nephropathic cystinosis and Phase IIa trials for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, as well as Convivia for ALDH2 deficiency and other candidates for Huntington's disease and various forms of pain. Additionally, Raptor is developing preclinical products such as HepTide for hepatocellular carcinoma and hepatitis C, WntTide for breast cancer, and NeuroTrans for neurodegenerative diseases. The company collaborates with the University of California, San Diego, on clinical studies involving its drug candidates. Founded in 2005, Raptor Pharmaceuticals aims to address significant unmet medical needs through its innovative therapeutic approaches.
Invuity, Inc. is a medical technology company based in San Francisco, California, focused on developing and marketing advanced surgical devices in the United States and Asia. Utilizing its intelligent photonics technology platform, Invuity creates both single-use and reusable illuminated surgical devices that enhance visualization during surgical procedures. The company's product lineup includes various illuminated retractors and handheld illuminators designed for a range of specialties, such as breast, orthopedic, gynecological, and spinal surgeries. Notable offerings include the Eikon LT illuminated retractor system, Eiberg illuminated retractors, and the PhotonBlade and PhotonSaber series, which provide targeted illumination to improve surgical outcomes. Invuity sells its devices through direct sales representatives, independent agents, and directly to hospitals and surgeons, as well as to third-party medical device manufacturers. Previously known as Spotlight Surgical, Inc., Invuity was founded in 2004 and operates as a subsidiary of Stryker Corporation.
Private Equity Round in 2014
Nuron Biotech Inc. develops specialty biologics and vaccines. Its product pipeline comprises central nervous system products, such as NU100, a recombinant human interferon beta-1b for the treatment of relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis; wound healing products, including NU200, a recombinant human epidermal growth factor product for healing diabetic foot ulcers and burns; and HibTITER, a conjugate vaccine. The company was founded in 2010 and is based in Exton, Pennsylvania.
Suneva Medical, Inc. is an aesthetics company based in San Diego, California, specializing in the development, manufacturing, and commercialization of innovative products for the dermatology, plastic, and cosmetic surgery markets. The company is best known for Bellafill, a unique dermal filler that is distinguished by its five-year safety and efficacy data and its approval for the correction of facial acne scars. In addition to Bellafill, Suneva Medical offers Puregraft, a fat grafting solution that enhances long-term graft retention, as well as a platform for processing platelet-rich plasma to optimize patient outcomes. The company is dedicated to delivering differentiated aesthetic products that provide high satisfaction for both patients and healthcare providers, thereby creating significant business opportunities for its partners. Suneva Medical was founded in 2008 and has an additional office in Santa Barbara, California.
Suneva Medical, Inc. is an aesthetics company based in San Diego, California, specializing in the development, manufacturing, and commercialization of innovative products for the dermatology, plastic, and cosmetic surgery markets. The company is best known for Bellafill, a unique dermal filler that is distinguished by its five-year safety and efficacy data and its approval for the correction of facial acne scars. In addition to Bellafill, Suneva Medical offers Puregraft, a fat grafting solution that enhances long-term graft retention, as well as a platform for processing platelet-rich plasma to optimize patient outcomes. The company is dedicated to delivering differentiated aesthetic products that provide high satisfaction for both patients and healthcare providers, thereby creating significant business opportunities for its partners. Suneva Medical was founded in 2008 and has an additional office in Santa Barbara, California.
TearScience, Inc. is a medical device company based in Morrisville, North Carolina, focused on the identification, diagnosis, and treatment of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), which is the primary cause of evaporative dry eye affecting over 100 million people globally. The company has developed innovative devices such as the LipiFlow Activator, which delivers automated therapeutic energies to meibomian glands while safeguarding the eye's delicate structures, and LipiScan, an imaging system that allows eye care professionals to assess gland health. MGD is often under-recognized and contributes significantly to dry eye symptoms such as irritation, dryness, and visual disturbances. By providing a comprehensive in-office system, TearScience enables eye care professionals to effectively address the root causes of evaporative dry eye, ultimately improving patient outcomes. The company, originally known as Kolis Scientific, Inc., was rebranded in 2005 and is now a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson Surgical Vision, Inc.
Private Equity Round in 2012
Nuron Biotech Inc. develops specialty biologics and vaccines. Its product pipeline comprises central nervous system products, such as NU100, a recombinant human interferon beta-1b for the treatment of relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis; wound healing products, including NU200, a recombinant human epidermal growth factor product for healing diabetic foot ulcers and burns; and HibTITER, a conjugate vaccine. The company was founded in 2010 and is based in Exton, Pennsylvania.
AcuFocus, Inc. is an ophthalmic medical device company based in Irvine, California, specializing in small aperture technologies aimed at enhancing near vision. The company offers the KAMRA inlay, designed to restore near vision for presbyopic patients while preserving distance vision. Additionally, AcuFocus develops the IC-8 IOL, a small aperture lens that facilitates a range of vision for patients with cataracts. The AcuTarget HD is another key product, serving as a diagnostic and surgical planning instrument for various vision correction procedures, including LASIK and cataract surgeries. AcuFocus markets its products through distribution partners across the Americas, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East, addressing the needs of both physicians and patients in the vision care sector. Founded in 2001, AcuFocus continues to focus on innovative solutions for vision-related challenges.
Zogenix, Inc. is a pharmaceutical company focused on developing and commercializing therapies aimed at improving the lives of patients with rare diseases, particularly those affecting the central nervous system. The company’s lead product candidate, Fintepla, is a low-dose fenfluramine currently undergoing Phase III clinical trials for the treatment of seizures related to Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, as well as Phase II trials for other rare epileptic conditions. Additionally, Zogenix is developing MT1621, a therapy for mitochondrial DNA depletion disorder, and is collaborating with Tevard Biosciences to advance gene therapies for Dravet syndrome and other genetic epilepsies. Founded in 2006 and headquartered in Emeryville, California, Zogenix aims to address significant unmet medical needs in the field of neurology and pain management through innovative treatment options.