Alexandria Venture Investments, LLC is a venture capital firm established in 1996 and headquartered in Pasadena, California. It specializes in seed, early-stage, and growth capital investments primarily within the healthcare sector, with a particular emphasis on biopharma, diagnostics, life sciences, agrifood technology, and technology sectors. The firm is recognized for its strategic approach, providing long-term investment capital to innovative companies that are developing transformative technologies and therapies aimed at improving human health. As a subsidiary of Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Alexandria Venture Investments leverages its deep industry expertise, extensive relationships with investors, and a world-class scientific advisory network to support and fund promising startups and growth-oriented companies in disruptive life science and technology.
Solu Therapeutics is a precision medicine company dedicated to developing innovative therapeutics aimed at eliminating cells responsible for driving diseases. Utilizing a unique cytotoxicity-targeting chimera platform, Solu Therapeutics focuses on oncology and also addresses inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. By targeting these disease-driving cells, the company's approach seeks to assist medical professionals in reducing the risks associated with various oncological conditions, ultimately improving patient outcomes and advancing therapeutic options in the healthcare sector.
Archon Bio
Seed Round in 2024
Archon Bio is a biotechnology company that specializes in engineering proteins to enhance therapeutic outcomes. It focuses on creating self-assembling protein antibody nanomaterials, aiming to improve immune modulation and super agonism of the TNF receptor superfamily. By increasing the size and valency of off-the-shelf antibodies, Archon seeks to induce stronger responses, thereby advancing regenerative medicine and cancer treatment.
March Biosciences
Series A in 2024
March Biosciences is a clinical-stage biotechnology company specializing in cell therapies for hematological cancers. Its primary focus is on developing CAR-T cell therapies, with a lead asset, MB-105, targeting CD5 in refractory T-cell lymphoma and leukemia, currently in Phase 1 trials. The company's approach involves biologically informed target selection, simplified CAR-T engineering, and a streamlined manufacturing process that prioritizes cell functionality and consistency.
858 Therapeutics
Series B in 2024
858 Therapeutics is a biotechnology company dedicated to the discovery of small molecule therapeutics aimed at treating cancers and other diseases, particularly those resistant to existing therapies. The company employs innovative strategies in areas such as synthetic lethality, innate immunity, and RNA modulation to develop its therapeutic candidates. Its lead program focuses on a PARG inhibitor, which is currently in early clinical development. By leveraging its platform to investigate the role of RNA modifying proteins in disease biology, 858 Therapeutics is generating a pipeline of targeted small molecules that address critical unmet medical needs in oncology and immunology.
Radiant Biotherapeutics
Series A in 2024
Radiant Biotherapeutics is an innovative company focused on developing a modular platform for multi-valent and multi-specific therapeutics. This platform aims to advance antibody engineering by producing multi-functional biologics capable of addressing challenging diseases, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases. By leveraging enhanced binding power and multi-specificity, Radiant Biotherapeutics seeks to create potent therapeutics that have the potential to significantly improve treatment outcomes for patients. The company is committed to delivering transformative therapies through its cutting-edge approach to antibody technology.
Bright Peak Therapeutics
Series C in 2024
Bright Peak Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on developing immunotherapies for cancer and autoimmune diseases. The company specializes in cytokine therapeutics that enable tissue and cell-specific targeting of cytokine payloads. This approach aims to enhance the efficacy of treatments, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life. By leveraging innovative immuno-cytokines, Bright Peak seeks to provide more effective therapeutic options for complex medical conditions.
OverT Bio
Seed Round in 2024
OverT Bio is a biotechnology company focused on developing cell therapies for cancer treatment. The company specializes in identifying and creating novel genetic modifications that empower immune cells to navigate and overcome the barriers posed by tumors. By enhancing the effectiveness and durability of immunotherapies, OverT Bio aims to advance the healthcare field's ability to identify and ultimately cure cancer.
Enlaza Therapeutics
Series A in 2024
Enlaza Therapeutics is a biotechnology research company founded in 2020 and based in La Jolla, California. The company focuses on developing novel protein therapeutics aimed at providing more effective and safer treatment options for patients. Utilizing advanced synthetic biology technology, Enlaza's platform enables site-specific covalent coupling driven by drug binding. This innovative approach allows for the creation of first-in-class covalent biologics, which are designed to offer enhanced efficacy and improved safety profiles compared to existing treatments.
Tr1x
Series A in 2024
Tr1x is a biotechnology company focused on developing cellular therapies for the treatment of autoimmune disorders. The company leverages its proprietary platform to create advanced cell therapy products aimed at recalibrating the immune system and restoring homeostasis. By exploring genetic engineering and T-cell biology, Tr1x seeks to develop scalable and effective cellular cures that target inflammation and autoimmunity. Its mission is to provide innovative solutions for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, ultimately transforming the lives of patients affected by these conditions.
Ability Biologics
Seed Round in 2023
Ability Biologics is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative immune-modulating biotherapeutics to meet the pressing medical needs of patients suffering from cancer and autoimmune diseases. The company leverages an advanced platform that employs continuously learning artificial intelligence and a comprehensive database of antigen-antibody interactions. This technology enables the creation of potent and selective antibody therapeutics, aimed at addressing significant gaps in treatment options for these challenging health conditions. By prioritizing tailored solutions, Ability Biologics seeks to enhance patient outcomes and contribute to advancements in the field of immunotherapy.
Alto Neuroscience
Series C in 2023
Alto Neuroscience is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on improving mental health treatment through personalized medicine. By utilizing an AI-enabled biomarker platform, Alto integrates detailed patient data regarding brain activity and behavior to develop effective therapeutics for specific populations. The company aims to transform the traditional trial-and-error approach in psychiatry by matching the appropriate treatment to individual patients, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of interventions. Alto's clinical-stage assets include various products targeting conditions such as depressive disorders and schizophrenia, identified through independent brain-based biomarkers. Through its innovative approach, Alto Neuroscience seeks to redefine psychiatric care at a critical time for mental health.
DEKA Biosciences
Series B in 2023
DEKA Biosciences is an early-stage biotechnology company focused on developing next-generation cytokine therapeutics aimed at treating cancer and inflammatory diseases. The company is dedicated to creating life-changing medicines with disease-specific applications that enhance patient outcomes. By leveraging improved pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, DEKA Biosciences aims to deliver dual and complementary cytokines directly to affected tissues or cells. This targeted approach seeks to provide patients with curative treatment options for a range of conditions, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases.
Georgiamune
Series A in 2023
Georgiamune is an immunotherapy company dedicated to advancing oncology treatments. The firm specializes in next-generation immunotherapeutic and homeostatic therapies aimed at addressing cancer and autoimmune diseases. By focusing on innovative approaches, Georgiamune seeks to enhance patient recovery from cancer, contributing to significant breakthroughs in the field of immunotherapy.
Solu Therapeutics
Seed Round in 2023
Solu Therapeutics is a precision medicine company dedicated to developing innovative therapeutics aimed at eliminating cells responsible for driving diseases. Utilizing a unique cytotoxicity-targeting chimera platform, Solu Therapeutics focuses on oncology and also addresses inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. By targeting these disease-driving cells, the company's approach seeks to assist medical professionals in reducing the risks associated with various oncological conditions, ultimately improving patient outcomes and advancing therapeutic options in the healthcare sector.
Bitterroot Bio
Series A in 2023
Bitterroot Bio is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative immunotherapy-based treatments for cardiovascular disease. By harnessing the immune system's natural capabilities to combat illness, the company conducts research to understand the significant roles of immune cells and immune modulators in the onset and advancement of cardiovascular conditions. Through its commitment to advancing medical treatments, Bitterroot Bio aims to provide effective therapies that can transform cardiovascular disease management and improve patient outcomes.
Myeloid Therapeutics
Series A in 2023
Myeloid Therapeutics is an immunology company dedicated to harnessing myeloid cells for the treatment of cancer and other diseases. The company employs its ATAK platform technology, which focuses on reprogramming innate immune cells to enhance their ability to target and eliminate cancerous cells. This platform is designed to be versatile and scalable, allowing for the development of various treatment modalities across multiple disease areas. Currently, Myeloid Therapeutics is advancing a cell therapy program aimed at T cell lymphoma, as well as a primed monocyte approach for treating glioblastoma. Through its innovative technology, the company seeks to overcome the limitations of existing cell therapies and improve patient outcomes.
Ten63 Therapeutics
Series A in 2023
Ten63 Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative therapeutics for challenging diseases, particularly those involving targets previously considered undruggable. Founded in 2017 and based in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, the company utilizes its proprietary platform, COPPER, which integrates advanced artificial intelligence and state-of-the-art physical models to explore vast chemical spaces. By employing low-residual, machine learning-based computational chemistry alongside superlinear search algorithms, Ten63 Therapeutics aims to identify and optimize drug candidates effectively. Their approach includes proprietary scaffold redesign and hopping technology, enabling the screening of trillions of molecules to predict resistance and redesign antibodies. This combination of techniques positions Ten63 Therapeutics at the forefront of developing durable treatments for some of the most lethal diseases.
Radiant Biotherapeutics
Seed Round in 2023
Radiant Biotherapeutics is an innovative company focused on developing a modular platform for multi-valent and multi-specific therapeutics. This platform aims to advance antibody engineering by producing multi-functional biologics capable of addressing challenging diseases, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases. By leveraging enhanced binding power and multi-specificity, Radiant Biotherapeutics seeks to create potent therapeutics that have the potential to significantly improve treatment outcomes for patients. The company is committed to delivering transformative therapies through its cutting-edge approach to antibody technology.
TORL BioTherapeutics
Series B in 2023
TORL BioTherapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing innovative antibody-based medicines aimed at improving outcomes for cancer patients. The company specializes in creating antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) to address oncologic diseases that exhibit significant unmet medical needs. TORL BioTherapeutics employs a strategic approach that includes target identification and early discovery work, allowing them to license promising drug programs and develop proprietary therapies with optimized characteristics. Through this pipeline, TORL BioTherapeutics is positioned to advance novel treatments that could significantly enhance patient care in oncology.
Function Oncology
Series A in 2023
Function Oncology is a precision medicine company focused on developing advanced cancer therapies through a personalized functional genomics platform powered by CRISPR technology. This innovative platform allows for the identification of therapeutic opportunities tailored to individual patients, enhancing the understanding of cancer at a patient-specific level. By leveraging cutting-edge genomic tools, Function Oncology aims to transform targeted cancer treatment and create the next generation of therapies designed to meet the unique needs of each patient.
Garuda Therapeutics
Series B in 2023
Garuda Therapeutics is a biotech company focused on developing off-the-shelf hematopoietic stem cell therapies aimed at treating life-threatening diseases, particularly those affecting blood, bone marrow, immunity, and metabolism. The company is dedicated to eliminating the reliance on donor or patient cells for blood stem cell transplants by leveraging its innovative platform technology to generate self-renewing blood stem cells. This approach is designed to ensure rapid and broad access to consistent, durable, HLA-compatible, and transgene-free blood stem cell therapies for patients. Garuda Therapeutics employs advanced methodologies, including the use of zebrafish, mice, and human-induced pluripotent stem cells, to clone and analyze novel genes and mechanisms critical for blood formation, ultimately developing mechanism-based therapies that address unmet medical needs.
Cajal Neuroscience
Series A in 2022
Cajal Neuroscience is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. By integrating human genetics, functional genomics, and advanced microscopy, the company aims to identify novel therapeutic targets. Cajal utilizes a range of cutting-edge technologies, including high-throughput functional genomics and multi-omics approaches, to screen for targets that significantly influence the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. This comprehensive methodology supports the development of precision medicine, ultimately aiding healthcare professionals in treating patients affected by these conditions.
Haystack Oncology
Series A in 2022
Haystack Oncology is an oncology company that specializes in liquid biopsy diagnostic technology aimed at improving cancer treatment strategies and patient outcomes. By utilizing advanced circulating tumor DNA detection methods, the company enhances the diagnosis of minimal residual disease, allowing for more informed therapy decision-making. Their technology focuses on identifying tumor-specific markers through blood samples, which facilitates the early detection of recurrent disease and offers increased sensitivity in monitoring residual disease post-treatment. This innovation enables healthcare teams to access cutting-edge liquid biopsy tools, thereby transforming the management of cancer and significantly improving patient care.
Matchpoint Therapeutics
Series A in 2022
Matchpoint Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on developing precision covalent medicines aimed at transforming the treatment of immune diseases and other serious conditions. Utilizing its proprietary Advanced Covalent Exploration (ACE) platform, the company combines advanced chemoproteomics, machine learning, and the evolution of covalent chemistry libraries to enhance drug discovery. This innovative approach allows for a deeper exploration of the proteome, enabling the identification and targeting of new binding sites on disease-causing proteins. Matchpoint is building an emerging pipeline of novel covalent medicines, with an initial emphasis on immunology.
Cartography Biosciences
Series A in 2022
Cartography Biosciences is a biotechnology company focused on developing cancer therapies through precision medicine. The company has created a platform-based cell therapy that utilizes single-cell analysis to identify innovative CAR-T targets. This approach allows for the design of cancer immunotherapies tailored to the safest and most effective targets. By combining molecular biology and computational methods, Cartography enables clients to advance their studies in the development of these targeted treatments, aiming to improve outcomes for cancer patients.
Pheast Therapeutics
Series A in 2022
Pheast Therapeutics is a cancer immunotherapy company founded in 2020 and based in Palo Alto, California. The company specializes in developing innovative checkpoint therapies aimed at activating the innate immune system to combat cancer. Its primary focus is on creating immunotherapies that target macrophage checkpoints, which are crucial for enabling macrophages to effectively eliminate tumors in ovarian and breast cancers. By blocking these immune checkpoints, Pheast Therapeutics aims to enhance the likelihood of patient survival and advance treatment options within the healthcare sector.
Affini-T Therapeutics
Venture Round in 2022
Affini-T Therapeutics is a biotechnology company developing T-cell therapies for patients suffering from cancer. Affini-T uses a validated platform to select high-affinity T cell receptors specific to oncogenic mutations to pioneer cutting-edge solid tumor therapies. Affini-T leverages gene editing and synthetic biology to engineer novel T-cell therapies designed to eradicate tumors.
Ambys Medicines
Series A in 2021
Ambys Medicines, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Redwood City, California, founded in 2016. The company is dedicated to discovering and developing transformative therapies for severe liver diseases. Ambys focuses on creating innovative gene, drug, and cell therapies aimed at restoring liver function, halting the progression of liver disease, and addressing the complications associated with liver failure. By leveraging regenerative and restorative medical approaches, Ambys Medicines seeks to improve the lives of individuals affected by chronic liver conditions, providing potential relief through advanced therapeutic options.
Fountain Therapeutics
Series A in 2021
Fountain Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing treatments for age-related diseases. Founded in 2018 and based in San Francisco, California, the company aims to create a future where individuals live healthier for longer. It employs a transformative cellular model that mimics the complex characteristics of aging within a laboratory setting. By integrating this model with advanced artificial intelligence and computer vision, Fountain Therapeutics seeks to establish an innovative platform for identifying novel therapeutic targets. This approach is designed to facilitate the development of effective treatments for diseases associated with aging, ultimately aiming to reverse cellular aging and improve health outcomes.
GeneCentric Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
GeneCentric Therapeutics engages in developing and commercializing molecular diagnostic tests for oncologists and patients. The company currently has two unique platform technologies including The Lung Subtype Platform (LSP) stratifies lung cancer patients into subtypes, which are important for appropriate therapeutic selection. The first application of LSP was licensed to and independently developed by Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings (“LabCorp”) and is now available through its specialty testing business, Integrated Oncology, as HistoPlusSM: Lung Cancer. Its second platform technology is the Hypoxia Signature which has the potential to identify patients that respond to anti-angiogenesis therapies. GeneCentric utilizes a unique partnership model to translate important cancer discoveries into clinically adopted diagnostics for pathologists, clinicians, and, most importantly, patients. The company was incorporated in 2011 and is based in Durham, North Carolina.
Nitrase Therapeutics
Series A in 2021
Nitrase Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical platform company focused on developing therapies targeting a newly identified class of enzymes known as Nitrases. Initially concentrating on Parkinson’s disease, the company aims to create drugs that may slow or halt the progression of this and other related neurodegenerative conditions. By leveraging its expertise in nitration, Nitrase Therapeutics seeks to explore the therapeutic potential of biochemical modifications of proteins, particularly through the identification of nitro-substrates and their involvement in various diseases. This approach positions the company to potentially expand its platform to address a broader range of medical conditions in the future.
DEKA Biosciences
Series A in 2021
DEKA Biosciences is an early-stage biotechnology company focused on developing next-generation cytokine therapeutics aimed at treating cancer and inflammatory diseases. The company is dedicated to creating life-changing medicines with disease-specific applications that enhance patient outcomes. By leveraging improved pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, DEKA Biosciences aims to deliver dual and complementary cytokines directly to affected tissues or cells. This targeted approach seeks to provide patients with curative treatment options for a range of conditions, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases.
Mozart Therapeutics
Series A in 2021
Mozart Therapeutics is a biotechnology startup dedicated to developing disease-modifying therapies for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. The company focuses on a novel regulatory CD8 T cell network to create innovative CD8 Treg modulators aimed at treating a range of autoimmune conditions. By targeting a specific subset of T-lymphocytes, Mozart aims to restore long-term immune balance and prevent the progression of damage caused by autoreactive immune responses. Its pipeline includes first-in-class CD8 Treg modulators designed to delay the onset of autoimmune diseases and improve patient outcomes through advanced treatment options.
Lycia Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Lycia Therapeutics is a biotechnology firm focused on discovering and developing first-in-class therapies. The company utilizes its innovative lysosomal targeting chimeras (LYTACs) platform to create therapeutics that target and degrade extracellular and membrane-bound proteins associated with challenging diseases, including cancer and autoimmune disorders. By addressing these difficult-to-treat conditions, Lycia Therapeutics aims to provide medical practitioners with effective treatment options to improve patient outcomes.
Disc Medicine
Series B in 2021
Disc Medicine, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on developing innovative treatments for severe hematologic disorders. Founded in 2017, the company specializes in human genetics-based therapeutics that aim to improve red blood cell production in patients suffering from various hematologic diseases. Disc Medicine's pipeline includes therapeutic candidates targeting critical pathways involved in red blood cell biology, such as heme biosynthesis and iron homeostasis. Notable programs include bitopertin, which is being developed for conditions like erythropoietic porphyrias and Diamond-Blackfan anemia. Through its research and development efforts, Disc Medicine seeks to transform the lives of patients affected by these challenging disorders.
Asher Bio
Series B in 2021
Asher Biotherapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California, founded in 2019. The company specializes in the development of immunotherapy drugs aimed at effectively treating cancer. Its innovative therapies are designed to enhance the immune system's ability to target and eliminate cancer cells while minimizing side effects. This focus allows healthcare providers to deliver effective treatments to patients in a shorter timeframe, aiming to improve overall outcomes in cancer care.
Humacyte
Post in 2021
Humacyte, Inc. is a medical research and development company based in Morrisville, North Carolina, focused on creating and commercializing human tissue-based products for regenerative medicine and vascular surgery. The company specializes in designing acellular extracellular matrices, which are crafted in vitro from banked vascular smooth muscle cells and decellularized to prevent rejection. These products serve as tissue-engineered grafts for patients requiring vascular repair or replacement. Humacyte's innovative approach aims to provide universally implantable bioengineered human tissues and organs, addressing various diseases, injuries, and chronic conditions while enhancing patient care and transforming medical practices. Founded in 2004, the company is committed to advancing solutions for vascular diseases and the replacement of anatomical conduits.
Effector Therapeutics
Post in 2021
eFFECTOR Therapeutics Inc is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Diego, California. Established in 2012, the company specializes in developing selective translation regulators for cancer and other serious diseases. Its innovative approach involves small molecule drugs known as selective translation regulator inhibitors (STRIs), which target the eIF4F complex and its associated kinase, mitogen-activated protein kinase 1/2 (MNK 1/2). This complex plays a crucial role in the translation of specific messenger RNA into proteins linked to cancer progression. eFFECTOR's lead product candidate, tomivosertib, is currently being evaluated in a Phase 2b trial in combination with pembrolizumab for non-small cell lung cancer. Additionally, zotatifin, an inhibitor of eIF4A, is undergoing dose-escalation trials with plans for further expansion. The company also collaborates with Pfizer to develop inhibitors targeting eIF4E. Through these efforts, eFFECTOR aims to address the challenges of tumor growth, survival, and immune evasion in cancer treatment.
Neurona Therapeutics
Venture Round in 2021
Neurona Therapeutics Inc. is a biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California, that specializes in developing cell-based therapies for neurological disorders. Founded by neuroscientists and stem cell pioneers at The University of California, San Francisco, the company focuses on creating therapeutic compositions of specific types of neurons for targeted delivery into the injured nervous system. Drawing on nearly two decades of research, Neurona seeks to harness particular subpopulations of neurons capable of integrating and repairing dysregulated neural circuits. With a dedicated team of scientists and advisors, the company aims to accelerate the development of breakthrough treatments for patients suffering from significant unmet medical needs in the realm of chronic neurological diseases.
Veralox Therapeutics
Series A in 2021
Veralox Therapeutics specializes in the development of small molecule therapeutics aimed at addressing the underlying pathologies of thrombosis and type one diabetes. The company focuses on innovative treatment paradigms informed by a deep understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in these diseases. By targeting conditions such as heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis, Veralox Therapeutics aims to enhance patient outcomes and facilitate complete recovery from diabetes. Through its research and development efforts, the company seeks to provide effective and transformative therapies for individuals affected by these serious health conditions.
Mnemo Therapeutics
Series A in 2021
Mnemo Therapeutics is a biotechnology firm focused on developing immune-based therapies, particularly cell therapies, aimed at treating solid tumors and blood cancers. The company utilizes its EnfiniT platform, a drug discovery engine that harnesses a unique class of antigens and various technologies to target tumorous epitopes prevalent in multiple cancer types. By leveraging epigenetic variation and CAR-T precision genetic engineering, Mnemo Therapeutics strives to create accessible allogeneic treatments that offer effective solutions for patients facing these challenging diseases.
Bright Peak Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Bright Peak Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on developing immunotherapies for cancer and autoimmune diseases. The company specializes in cytokine therapeutics that enable tissue and cell-specific targeting of cytokine payloads. This approach aims to enhance the efficacy of treatments, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life. By leveraging innovative immuno-cytokines, Bright Peak seeks to provide more effective therapeutic options for complex medical conditions.
TwinStrand Biosciences
Series B in 2021
TwinStrand Biosciences, established in 2015 and based in Bellevue, Washington, specializes in advancing DNA sequencing technology. The company's core innovation, Duplex Sequencing, enhances sequencing accuracy by over 10,000 times, enabling the detection of previously invisible mutations. This breakthrough technology has potential applications across various sectors, including oncology, infectious disease diagnosis, organ transplantation, reproductive health, genetic testing, and forensics.
Ventus Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Ventus Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing novel small molecule medicines aimed at treating autoimmune diseases, inflammatory diseases, and cancer by targeting the innate immune system. The company employs a structural immunology platform that provides deep insights into the mechanisms and molecular structures involved in immune responses. This platform integrates proprietary protein engineering capabilities with advanced rational and structure-based drug design tools, allowing for precise targeting of the innate immune system. Ventus is actively building a pipeline of drug programs that address critical targets within this system, particularly proteins involved in inflammasome and nucleic acid-sensing signaling pathways, thereby enabling the treatment of both acute and chronic inflammatory and immune-related conditions.
Vera Therapeutics
Series C in 2021
Vera Therapeutics, a biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California, specializes in developing innovative biologic therapeutics aimed at treating serious immunological diseases and genetic disorders. Founded in 2016 and renamed in March 2020, the company's research focuses on transformative treatments that can significantly improve patient outcomes. One of its key product candidates is atacicept, a fusion protein designed for self-administration via a weekly subcutaneous injection. Atacicept works by inhibiting both B lymphocyte stimulator and a proliferation-inducing ligand, which are involved in the production of autoantibodies that contribute to various autoimmune diseases. Additionally, Vera Therapeutics is exploring gene-editing technologies that hold the potential to address conditions such as sickle cell disease and cystic fibrosis.
Blacksmith Medicines
Seed Round in 2021
Blacksmith Medicines is focused on developing innovative therapies that target metal-dependent enzymes, known as metalloenzymes, which play a crucial role in human physiology. With over 30% of known enzymes classified as metalloenzymes, they encompass all major enzyme classes, including oxidoreductases, transferases, and hydrolases. Blacksmith Medicines utilizes a specialized platform that combines a curated library of metal-binding pharmacophores with advanced computational modeling techniques. This approach allows for the rapid and systematic design of small molecule inhibitors that specifically interact with key metal ions within the enzyme's active site. The company's efforts are particularly directed towards creating medicines for immuno-oncology and inflammatory diseases, offering the potential for more effective and selective therapeutic options.
Lexeo Therapeutics
Series A in 2021
Lexeo Therapeutics is a biotechnology company specializing in adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated therapies for both rare and common diseases caused by single gene mutations. Headquartered in New York, the company maintains an integrated pipeline developed in collaboration with Weill Cornell Medicine's Department of Genetic Medicine. Lexeo focuses on advancing its clinical programs towards commercialization while continuing to research new therapies for various patient populations and unmet medical needs.
Myeloid Therapeutics
Series A in 2021
Myeloid Therapeutics is an immunology company dedicated to harnessing myeloid cells for the treatment of cancer and other diseases. The company employs its ATAK platform technology, which focuses on reprogramming innate immune cells to enhance their ability to target and eliminate cancerous cells. This platform is designed to be versatile and scalable, allowing for the development of various treatment modalities across multiple disease areas. Currently, Myeloid Therapeutics is advancing a cell therapy program aimed at T cell lymphoma, as well as a primed monocyte approach for treating glioblastoma. Through its innovative technology, the company seeks to overcome the limitations of existing cell therapies and improve patient outcomes.
Vigil Neuro
Series A in 2020
Vigil Neuroscience Inc. is a therapeutics company focused on microglia, the brain's immune sentinel cells, to address both rare and common neurodegenerative diseases. The company aims to restore the vigilance of microglia to improve patient outcomes. Vigil is advancing its lead candidate, a monoclonal antibody TREM2 agonist, through Phase 1 studies and is also developing an orally available small molecule TREM2 agonist, VG-3927, which is positioned to enter Investigational New Drug (IND) application. Additionally, Vigil is conducting the IGNITE trial, a Phase 2 proof-of-concept study that represents the first interventional trial for patients with adult-onset leukodystrophy. By leveraging modern neuroscience and various therapeutic modalities, Vigil seeks to deliver precision therapies that enhance the lives of patients and their families while expanding its pipeline and supporting the understanding of microglia biology as a critical therapeutic target.
Korro Bio
Series A in 2020
Korro Bio Inc., established in 2018 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, specializes in developing nucleic acid-based therapeutics targeting specific sequences in genetic code to treat rare diseases. The company's proprietary platform enables efficient and selective RNA editing, leveraging natural processes common to all multicellular organisms. Korro Bio aims to advance this technology to effect changes in protein structure and function across multiple tissues, expanding the reach of genetic medicines with additional precision and tunability by editing RNA instead of DNA.
Frequency Therapeutics
Post in 2020
Frequency Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Woburn, Massachusetts, that aims to repair or reverse damage from various degenerative diseases by utilizing the body’s own biological mechanisms. The company employs a Progenitor Cell Activation approach, which involves the use of small molecules to activate progenitor cells and promote the regeneration of functional tissue. Its leading product candidate, FX-322, is currently undergoing phase 2a clinical trials to address the underlying causes of sensorineural hearing loss. In addition to hearing loss, Frequency Therapeutics is also exploring treatments for a range of other conditions, including multiple sclerosis and diseases affecting muscle, the gastrointestinal tract, skin, and bone. The company has established a collaboration with Astellas Pharma for the development and commercialization of FX-322. Founded in 2014, Frequency Therapeutics focuses on disease modification without the complexities associated with genetic engineering.
Vor Biopharma
Series B in 2020
Vor Biopharma, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on developing engineered hematopoietic stem cell (eHSC) therapies for cancer treatment. The company's lead product candidate, VOR33, is designed specifically for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and is currently in preclinical development. VOR33 eHSCs are engineered to lack CD33, a protein commonly expressed by AML cells, allowing for selective targeting of the cancer without harming normal cells. This innovative approach seeks to minimize the toxicities associated with traditional immunotherapies, which often affect both cancerous and healthy tissues. By protecting healthy stem cells from depletion while generating functional immune cells, Vor Biopharma aims to enhance therapeutic outcomes for patients with hematological malignancies.
Autobahn Therapeutics
Series B in 2020
Autobahn Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in San Diego, California, focused on developing small molecule therapies for central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Since its incorporation in 2017, Autobahn has aimed to address significant unmet needs in neuropsychiatry and neuroimmunology through its innovative brain-targeting chemistry platform. The company's leading candidate, ABX-002, is a thyroid hormone receptor beta agonist being investigated as a potential treatment for multiple sclerosis and adrenomyeloneuropathy, as well as an adjunctive therapy for major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder depression. Autobahn Therapeutics emphasizes precision tuning of CNS exposure, targeting validated clinical and biological markers to enhance therapeutic opportunities and patient outcomes.
Nitrase Therapeutics
Series A in 2020
Nitrase Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical platform company focused on developing therapies targeting a newly identified class of enzymes known as Nitrases. Initially concentrating on Parkinson’s disease, the company aims to create drugs that may slow or halt the progression of this and other related neurodegenerative conditions. By leveraging its expertise in nitration, Nitrase Therapeutics seeks to explore the therapeutic potential of biochemical modifications of proteins, particularly through the identification of nitro-substrates and their involvement in various diseases. This approach positions the company to potentially expand its platform to address a broader range of medical conditions in the future.
MoMa Therapeutics
Series A in 2020
MOMA Therapeutics is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, founded in 2019. The company focuses on discovering precision medicines by targeting molecular machines that are fundamental to human disease. MOMA Therapeutics utilizes a unique platform that leverages the common features of the ATPase target class, which includes significant conformational changes and energy-driven mechanics. By combining these insights with advancements in structural biology and small-molecule drug discovery, MOMA Therapeutics aims to develop drugs targeting previously challenging enzymes, contributing to the next generation of targeted therapies. The company was formerly known as ATPases NewCo, Inc. before rebranding in March 2020.
Silverback Therapeutics
Series B in 2020
Silverback Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Seattle, Washington, that specializes in developing tissue-targeted therapeutics aimed at treating cancer, chronic viral infections, and other serious diseases. The company’s lead product candidate, SBT6050, is currently undergoing a Phase I/Ib clinical trial; it is a TLR8 agonist conjugated to a HER2-directed monoclonal antibody, targeting tumors such as breast, gastric, and non-small cell lung cancers. Additionally, Silverback is advancing SBT6290, which is in preclinical development and targets Nectin4, found in bladder, triple-negative breast, head and neck, and non-small cell lung cancers. The company is also developing SBT8230, aimed at treating chronic hepatitis B virus infection, and exploring other agents that utilize its proprietary technology to modulate pathways in oncology and fibrosis indications. Silverback's innovative ImmunoTAC platform enables the design of therapies that are systemically delivered but act specifically at disease sites, unlocking previously inaccessible pathways for treatment.
Kallyope
Series C in 2020
Kallyope Inc. is a biotechnology company based in New York City that focuses on the gut-brain axis to develop innovative therapeutics and consumer products aimed at enhancing human health. Founded in 2014, Kallyope employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating technologies such as sequencing, computational biology, neural imaging, and human genetics to deepen the understanding of gut-brain biology. This comprehensive understanding enables the company to create effective and well-tolerated oral medications targeting various health issues, including diabetes, obesity, gut disorders, inflammatory diseases, migraines, and allergies. With a team of experienced scientists and a strong foundation in drug discovery, Kallyope aims to address significant unmet medical needs through its research and development efforts.
TwinStrand Biosciences
Series A in 2020
TwinStrand Biosciences, established in 2015 and based in Bellevue, Washington, specializes in advancing DNA sequencing technology. The company's core innovation, Duplex Sequencing, enhances sequencing accuracy by over 10,000 times, enabling the detection of previously invisible mutations. This breakthrough technology has potential applications across various sectors, including oncology, infectious disease diagnosis, organ transplantation, reproductive health, genetic testing, and forensics.
Aspen Neuroscience
Seed Round in 2019
Aspen Neuroscience, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to create patient-specific therapies for neurological conditions, particularly Parkinson's disease. Founded in 2018 and based in San Diego, California, the company is advancing its pipeline of products, which includes ANPD001, an autologous neuron replacement therapy for sporadic Parkinson's disease, and ANPD002, a gene-edited autologous neuron replacement therapy targeting familial forms of the disease. Aspen Neuroscience employs innovative genomic approaches in conjunction with stem cell biology to address diseases with significant unmet medical needs, aiming to provide restorative cell therapies that can modify the progression of Parkinson's disease and potentially extend to other affected organs.
Jasper Therapeutics
Series A in 2019
Jasper Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Menlo Park, California, focused on developing therapeutic agents for hematopoietic stem cell transplants and gene therapies. The company aims to create safer conditioning agents that enable broader use of curative therapies, particularly through its novel engineered hematopoietic stem cells platform. Its lead compound, JSP191, is a humanized monoclonal antibody currently in clinical development. This agent functions as a conditioning treatment by targeting and clearing hematopoietic stem cells from bone marrow, facilitating successful stem cell transplants. By addressing the limitations of transplant grafts, Jasper Therapeutics seeks to increase the number of patients who can benefit from both allogeneic and autologous gene-edited hematopoietic stem cell therapies.
Immunitas Therapeutics
Series A in 2019
Immunitas Therapeutics, Inc. is focused on developing targeted therapies for cancer patients through innovative single-cell analyses. Founded in 2019 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company utilizes a single-cell sequencing platform to explore the biology of immune cells within human tumors. This approach allows Immunitas to identify novel drug targets rooted in human biology and create key biomarkers that assist in selecting patients who may benefit from their therapies. By translating laboratory findings into clinical applications, Immunitas aims to address longstanding challenges in oncology and improve treatment options for complex cancers. The company is advancing multiple programs toward early human studies, leveraging expertise in antibody discovery and engineering to develop effective treatments.
Genetron Health
Series D in 2019
Genetron Health is a leading precision medicine company specializing in oncology, with a strong focus on cancer molecular profiling. The company leverages advanced technologies in molecular biology and data science to enhance cancer treatment. Genetron Health offers comprehensive health management products covering all aspects of full-cycle cancer clinical treatment, including risk assessment, early screening, molecular pathology diagnosis, medication guidance, and prognosis monitoring. They provide reliable molecular clinical services and professional cancer genetic risk assessments for patients and high-risk individuals. With global genomics sequencing and bioinformatics platforms, research and development centers in North Carolina and Beijing, and clinical laboratories across major Chinese cities, Genetron Health aims to expand its sales network throughout China. The company is dedicated to serving both Chinese and global cancer patients with its expertise in cancer genomics and efficient clinical translation.
Adaptive Phage Therapeutics
Venture Round in 2019
Adaptive Phage Therapeutics, Inc. specializes in developing therapeutic solutions to combat the increasing threat of multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacteria. Founded in 2016 and based in Gaithersburg, Maryland, the company utilizes a unique resource known as PhageBank, which is an extensive and dynamic collection of bacteriophages—viruses that specifically target and attack harmful bacteria. Through a rapid system that matches these phages to individual patient bacterial infections, Adaptive Phage Therapeutics aims to enhance treatment options for patients suffering from MDR infections. Their innovative approach enables medical researchers to create tailored therapies that effectively detect and eliminate resistant bacterial strains.
Boundless Bio
Series A in 2019
Boundless Bio is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative therapies for the treatment of aggressive cancers linked to extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA). Founded in 2018 and based in La Jolla, California, the company aims to address the significant unmet medical needs of patients with oncogene amplified tumors, which affect over 14% of cancer patients. By targeting ecDNA, a key factor in oncogene amplification, Boundless Bio seeks to provide transformative treatments for previously difficult-to-treat cancers. One of its leading candidates, BBI-355, is an oral, selective inhibitor of checkpoint kinase 1 (CHK1), designed to manage the replication and transcription of ecDNA in cancer cells.
X-Vax
Series A in 2019
X-Vax Technology is a biotechnology company based in Jupiter, Florida, established in 2015. The company specializes in the preclinical and clinical development of vaccines designed to combat mucosal infections caused by pathogens such as herpes, influenza, tuberculosis, and HIV, which impact millions globally. X-Vax is advancing a herpes vaccine candidate based on a genetically modified HSV-2 virus that lacks glycoprotein D. This innovative approach aims to prevent infections from both herpes type 1 and type 2 by inducing antibodies that facilitate antibody-dependent cell-mediated killing, thereby creating a robust immune response against these viruses.
Aitia
Series D in 2019
Aitia specializes in applying Causal AI and Digital Twins to advance drug discovery and development. The company utilizes multi-omic patient data and high-performance computing to uncover the underlying biological mechanisms of diseases, creating Digital Twins for conditions such as oncology, neurodegenerative disorders, and immunology. Their Gemini Digital Twins are actively employed to explore new therapies and expedite research and development in areas like multiple myeloma, prostate cancer, Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, and Huntington's Disease, with additional projects in the pipeline. Aitia collaborates with seven of the top ten pharmaceutical companies, academic research institutions, medical societies, multi-omic data firms, and patient advocacy organizations, positioning itself as a leader in the innovative intersection of technology and healthcare.
Encoded Therapeutics
Series C in 2019
Encoded Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company that specializes in precision gene therapies aimed at treating a wide array of severe genetic disorders. Utilizing a unique platform, Encoded identifies sequences within the human genome that regulate gene expression through advanced screening and computational techniques. The company's therapy pipeline targets both genetic and acquired disorders across various disease pathways, including neurocircuitry, liver and metabolic disorders, neurodegeneration, and cardiovascular diseases. Founded in 2014 and based in South San Francisco, California, Encoded Therapeutics is focused on developing innovative solutions that enable medical practitioners to improve patient outcomes and enhance quality of life.
Blackthorn Therapeutics
Series B in 2019
Blackthorn Therapeutics, based in South San Francisco, California, is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing precision medicine for neurobehavioral disorders. Founded in 2013, the company utilizes a proprietary computational platform that integrates advances in computational and clinical neuroscience to better understand the relationship between brain function and behavior. By targeting dysfunctional brain circuits, Blackthorn aims to address longstanding challenges in drug discovery and development. The company’s approach involves identifying novel therapeutic targets, small molecule drug candidates, and biologically-based patient subgroups that are most likely to benefit from treatment, thereby enhancing the precision of therapeutic interventions in the central nervous system.
Inhibrx
Convertible Note in 2019
Inhibrx, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in La Jolla, California, dedicated to developing a diverse pipeline of novel biologic therapeutic candidates. The company employs advanced protein engineering techniques, including its proprietary sdAb platform, to target complex disease biology, with a focus on oncology, orphan diseases, and infectious diseases. Inhibrx's lead candidates include INBRX-109, a multivalent agonist in Phase 1 trials for solid tumors; INBRX-105, an antagonist of PD-L1 also in Phase 1 trials; INBRX-101, an Fc-fusion protein for alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency; and INBRX-103, a monoclonal antibody targeting CD47. Additionally, the company is developing preclinical programs such as INBRX-106, an agonist of OX40, and INBRX-111, an antibody targeting Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Inhibrx has established collaborations with organizations like Celgene and Bluebird Bio and has received funding from various granting agencies, including the NIH and CARB-X.
Prevail Therapeutics
Series B in 2019
Prevail Therapeutics Inc. is a biotechnology company headquartered in New York, specializing in the development and commercialization of gene therapies targeting neurodegenerative diseases. Founded in 2017, the company focuses on adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based therapies, with its lead candidate, PR001, currently undergoing Phase I/II clinical trials for Parkinson's disease associated with GBA1 mutations and neuronopathic Gaucher disease. Additionally, Prevail is advancing PR006 for frontotemporal dementia linked to GRN mutations and PR004 for various synucleinopathies. The company's mission is to provide disease-modifying treatments for patients suffering from these challenging conditions.
Karuna Therapeutics
Series B in 2019
Karuna Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Boston, Massachusetts, dedicated to developing innovative therapies for neuropsychiatric disorders and pain. Its lead product candidate, KarXT, is an oral modulator that has completed a Phase II clinical trial for treating acute psychosis in schizophrenia patients and is undergoing a Phase Ib clinical trial for various central nervous system disorders, including cognitive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s, and dementia-related psychosis. The company is also developing additional muscarinic-targeted drug candidates to address unmet medical needs in these areas. Founded in 2009, Karuna Therapeutics has established partnerships with organizations such as Eli Lilly and Company and PureTech Health LLC, focusing on advancing its drug discovery efforts through collaborations with Charles River Laboratories and PsychoGenics Inc.
Imara
Series B in 2019
Imara, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Boston, Massachusetts, focused on developing and commercializing therapeutics for rare genetic disorders of hemoglobin, including sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia. Founded in 2016, the company is advancing its lead product candidate, IMR-687, which is a highly selective small molecule inhibitor of PDE9. IMR-687 is designed as an oral, once-a-day treatment that aims to modify disease through a multimodal mechanism of action affecting various cell types, including red and white blood cells. Imara is dedicated to addressing the unmet medical needs of patients suffering from these serious hemoglobinopathies.
Applied Therapeutics
Series B in 2019
Applied Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in New York, focused on developing innovative therapies for serious medical conditions with significant unmet needs. The company's lead product candidate, AT-007, is in phase I/II clinical trials for the treatment of galactosemia, while AT-001 is undergoing phase II trials for diabetic cardiomyopathy and phase I trials for diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Additionally, AT-003 is in phase I trials for diabetic retinopathy. The company also has preclinical candidates, such as AT-104, aimed at treating orphan hematological oncology conditions. Founded in 2016, Applied Therapeutics leverages advancements in technology and regulatory processes to create drugs targeting well-established molecular mechanisms.
Dewpoint Therapeutics
Series A in 2019
Dewpoint Therapeutics is a Boston-based biotech company focused on the research and development of treatments targeting biomolecular condensates to address various diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and immunological conditions. Founded in 2018, the company employs an innovative drug platform that utilizes machine-learning-based image analysis for visualizing condensates. This technology supports an engine of engineered cell lines designed to track and mitigate harmful protein sequestration. By leveraging its proprietary platform, Dewpoint seeks to facilitate drug discovery across a wide range of medical indications and collaborates with leading academic and pharmaceutical partners to enhance the accessibility of new therapies for unmet healthcare needs.
Frequency Therapeutics
Series B in 2019
Frequency Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Woburn, Massachusetts, that aims to repair or reverse damage from various degenerative diseases by utilizing the body’s own biological mechanisms. The company employs a Progenitor Cell Activation approach, which involves the use of small molecules to activate progenitor cells and promote the regeneration of functional tissue. Its leading product candidate, FX-322, is currently undergoing phase 2a clinical trials to address the underlying causes of sensorineural hearing loss. In addition to hearing loss, Frequency Therapeutics is also exploring treatments for a range of other conditions, including multiple sclerosis and diseases affecting muscle, the gastrointestinal tract, skin, and bone. The company has established a collaboration with Astellas Pharma for the development and commercialization of FX-322. Founded in 2014, Frequency Therapeutics focuses on disease modification without the complexities associated with genetic engineering.
Tiburio Therapeutics
Series A in 2019
Tiburio Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing and manufacturing medicines for diseases related to the endocrine system. Founded in 2018 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company is advancing clinical-stage compounds aimed at treating rare neuroendocrine tumors and endocrine diseases. Notably, Tiburio is developing TBR-760, which targets non-functioning pituitary adenoma using a dopamine-somatostatin chimeric molecule designed to shrink or halt tumor growth. Additionally, Tiburio is working on TBR-065 for other rare endocrine diseases, addressing significant patient needs in these underserved areas.
Immusoft
Series B in 2019
Immusoft Corporation is a biotechnology company focused on developing an autologous cell therapy platform aimed at treating a range of human diseases through its proprietary Immune System Programming (ISP) technology. Founded in 2009 and based in Seattle, Washington, Immusoft specializes in modifying the DNA of a patient's immune cells to create biofactories capable of producing gene-encoded medicines, including essential proteins and enzymes that may be missing or defective. The company's innovative approach involves reprogramming B cells, a type of immune cell, which enables them to manufacture and secrete various antibodies. This process not only provides a potential long-term solution for patients but also positions Immusoft at the forefront of biotechnology in addressing rare and infectious diseases.
Relay Therapeutics
Series C in 2018
Relay Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage precision medicine company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on transforming the drug discovery process. The company employs a novel allosteric drug-discovery platform, known as Dynamo, which integrates advanced computational techniques with experimental methods to study protein motion and interactions. This innovative approach enables the identification and development of therapies targeting complex diseases, particularly in oncology. Relay Therapeutics is advancing a pipeline of product candidates, including RLY-1971, a small molecule inhibitor targeting SHP2, RLY-4008, a selective inhibitor of FGFR2 for advanced solid tumors, and RLY-PI3K1047, aimed at mutant variants of phosphoinositide 3-kinase alpha. Founded in 2015, the company aims to deliver life-changing therapies to patients by addressing previously intractable targets in precision oncology and genetic diseases.
Kallyope
Series B in 2018
Kallyope Inc. is a biotechnology company based in New York City that focuses on the gut-brain axis to develop innovative therapeutics and consumer products aimed at enhancing human health. Founded in 2014, Kallyope employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating technologies such as sequencing, computational biology, neural imaging, and human genetics to deepen the understanding of gut-brain biology. This comprehensive understanding enables the company to create effective and well-tolerated oral medications targeting various health issues, including diabetes, obesity, gut disorders, inflammatory diseases, migraines, and allergies. With a team of experienced scientists and a strong foundation in drug discovery, Kallyope aims to address significant unmet medical needs through its research and development efforts.
Ribometrix
Series A in 2018
Ribometrix, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Durham, North Carolina, focused on discovering and developing small molecule drugs that target functional three-dimensional RNA structures to treat various human diseases. Established in 2014, the company utilizes advanced expertise in RNA structural analysis to identify novel small molecules that can inhibit the production of proteins associated with diseases. Ribometrix's innovative platform combines proprietary RNA structure determination techniques with cutting-edge RNA tools and artificial intelligence capabilities, allowing researchers to effectively analyze and manipulate RNA biology. The company operates scientific offices in a renovated Biolabs space in Durham, along with additional offices in Chapel Hill and Boston.
Stoke Therapeutics
Series B in 2018
Stoke Therapeutics, Inc. is an early-stage biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Bedford, Massachusetts, focused on developing novel antisense oligonucleotide medicines to address the underlying causes of severe genetic diseases. The company employs its proprietary TANGO (Targeted Augmentation of Nuclear Gene Output) technology to enhance gene expression by targeting RNA splicing, thereby selectively restoring protein levels. Its lead product candidate, STK-001, is currently in clinical testing for the treatment of Dravet syndrome, a serious and progressive genetic epilepsy. Established in 2014, Stoke Therapeutics also collaborates with Invitae Corporation to provide genetic testing services, further supporting its mission to advance gene-targeted therapies for patients with severe genetic conditions.
Inspirna
Series C in 2018
Inspirna is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative drug candidates that target essential drivers of cancer. The company utilizes a microRNA-based target discovery platform to identify novel RNA dysregulated cancer drivers, which can be addressed by small molecules and biologics. Inspirna's clinical programs include first-in-class oral small molecules aimed at treating patients with RAS mutant colorectal cancer (RGX-202) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) (RGX-104), both currently in Phase 1b/2 trials. Through its research, Inspirna aims to provide effective treatment options that specifically target cancer metabolism and progression, offering potential advancements in cancer care.
Silverback Therapeutics
Series A in 2018
Silverback Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Seattle, Washington, that specializes in developing tissue-targeted therapeutics aimed at treating cancer, chronic viral infections, and other serious diseases. The company’s lead product candidate, SBT6050, is currently undergoing a Phase I/Ib clinical trial; it is a TLR8 agonist conjugated to a HER2-directed monoclonal antibody, targeting tumors such as breast, gastric, and non-small cell lung cancers. Additionally, Silverback is advancing SBT6290, which is in preclinical development and targets Nectin4, found in bladder, triple-negative breast, head and neck, and non-small cell lung cancers. The company is also developing SBT8230, aimed at treating chronic hepatitis B virus infection, and exploring other agents that utilize its proprietary technology to modulate pathways in oncology and fibrosis indications. Silverback's innovative ImmunoTAC platform enables the design of therapies that are systemically delivered but act specifically at disease sites, unlocking previously inaccessible pathways for treatment.
Compass Therapeutics
Series A in 2018
Compass Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative antibody therapeutics for the treatment of solid tumors and hematological malignancies. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company utilizes its proprietary StitchMabs and common light-chain platforms to discover and create multispecific antibody combinations. Its lead product candidate, CTX-471, is an agonistic monoclonal antibody targeting CD137, currently undergoing Phase 1 clinical trials in patients with prior PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitor treatment. Another significant candidate, CTX-009, is a bispecific antibody that inhibits DLL4-mediated Notch signaling and VEGF-A signaling, having completed a Phase 1 dose escalation study. Additionally, CTX-8371, a bispecific antibody targeting PD-1 and PD-L1, is in the IND-enabling stage. Through its innovative approaches, Compass Therapeutics aims to enhance immune engagement and improve therapeutic outcomes for cancer patients.
Nohla Therapeutics
Series B in 2018
Nohla Therapeutics, Inc. is focused on developing and manufacturing ex vivo expanded universal donor cellular therapies aimed at treating cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. The company utilizes a unique umbilical cord blood expansion platform to create and expand key cancer-fighting cells, enabling treatment without the need for HLA matching. Nohla's primary offerings include a Natural Killer (NK) cell program and a hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) expansion platform, which supports the clinical development of its flagship product, Dilanubicel. This off-the-shelf, ex vivo expanded hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell product is designed for immediate use to aid in hematopoietic recovery and address chemotherapy-induced neutropenia, among other indications. Founded in 2015 and based in Seattle, Washington, Nohla Therapeutics aims to streamline treatment processes while reducing patient risk and costs compared to traditional cell therapies.
Antiva Biosciences
Series C in 2018
Antiva Biosciences is a biopharmaceutical company based in South San Francisco, California, focused on developing antiviral drugs to treat human papillomavirus (HPV) infections. Founded in 2012 and previously known as Hera Therapeutics, the company aims to prevent cancer by addressing precancerous lesions associated with HPV. Antiva's innovative approach involves localized therapeutics and small molecule antivirals designed to improve health outcomes for patients suffering from diseases linked to HPV and other viruses. The company's clinical programs target high-grade anal intraepithelial neoplasias and high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasias, utilizing a medicinal chemistry platform that emphasizes the development and commercialization of direct-acting antivirals.
Nohla Therapeutics
Series B in 2018
Nohla Therapeutics, Inc. is focused on developing and manufacturing ex vivo expanded universal donor cellular therapies aimed at treating cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. The company utilizes a unique umbilical cord blood expansion platform to create and expand key cancer-fighting cells, enabling treatment without the need for HLA matching. Nohla's primary offerings include a Natural Killer (NK) cell program and a hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) expansion platform, which supports the clinical development of its flagship product, Dilanubicel. This off-the-shelf, ex vivo expanded hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell product is designed for immediate use to aid in hematopoietic recovery and address chemotherapy-induced neutropenia, among other indications. Founded in 2015 and based in Seattle, Washington, Nohla Therapeutics aims to streamline treatment processes while reducing patient risk and costs compared to traditional cell therapies.
QurAlis
Seed Round in 2018
QurAlis Corporation is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing therapeutics for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other neurodegenerative diseases. Based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company utilizes proprietary platforms and biomarkers to create precision medicines targeting genetically validated disease-causing alterations. Its pipeline includes various treatments aimed at specific subtypes of ALS, such as therapies designed to restore dysfunctional cellular waste clearance, manage overactive neurons to prevent cell death, and eliminate toxic proteins. QurAlis aims to advance its antisense oligonucleotides and small molecule programs to address the most prevalent forms of ALS, ultimately working to halt disease progression and improve patient outcomes. The company was incorporated in 2016 and operates as a subsidiary of Q-State Biosciences, Inc.
Prevail Therapeutics
Series A in 2018
Prevail Therapeutics Inc. is a biotechnology company headquartered in New York, specializing in the development and commercialization of gene therapies targeting neurodegenerative diseases. Founded in 2017, the company focuses on adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based therapies, with its lead candidate, PR001, currently undergoing Phase I/II clinical trials for Parkinson's disease associated with GBA1 mutations and neuronopathic Gaucher disease. Additionally, Prevail is advancing PR006 for frontotemporal dementia linked to GRN mutations and PR004 for various synucleinopathies. The company's mission is to provide disease-modifying treatments for patients suffering from these challenging conditions.
Quentis Therapeutics
Series A in 2018
Quentis Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in New York, founded in 2016. The company specializes in developing immunotherapies that target endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response pathways within the tumor microenvironment. By addressing ER stress, Quentis aims to enhance the immune system's capacity to combat cancer, providing patients with innovative treatment options. Its therapeutic approach focuses on awakening anti-tumor immunity, thereby potentially improving outcomes for individuals facing various forms of cancer.
Kallyope
Series B in 2018
Kallyope Inc. is a biotechnology company based in New York City that focuses on the gut-brain axis to develop innovative therapeutics and consumer products aimed at enhancing human health. Founded in 2014, Kallyope employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating technologies such as sequencing, computational biology, neural imaging, and human genetics to deepen the understanding of gut-brain biology. This comprehensive understanding enables the company to create effective and well-tolerated oral medications targeting various health issues, including diabetes, obesity, gut disorders, inflammatory diseases, migraines, and allergies. With a team of experienced scientists and a strong foundation in drug discovery, Kallyope aims to address significant unmet medical needs through its research and development efforts.
Moderna
Series G in 2018
Moderna, Inc. is a biotechnology company established in 2010 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The company specializes in developing therapeutics and vaccines using messenger RNA (mRNA) technology, which provides instructions for cells to produce proteins essential for various biological functions. Moderna has a diverse pipeline, with numerous programs targeting infectious diseases, immuno-oncology, rare diseases, and cardiovascular conditions. As of September 2024, it has 40 mRNA development candidates in clinical trials across multiple therapeutic areas. The company's mRNA technology gained significant recognition with the authorization of its COVID-19 vaccine in December 2020. Moderna maintains strategic alliances with various organizations, including major pharmaceutical companies and research institutions, to enhance its research and development efforts.
Relay Therapeutics
Series B in 2017
Relay Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage precision medicine company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on transforming the drug discovery process. The company employs a novel allosteric drug-discovery platform, known as Dynamo, which integrates advanced computational techniques with experimental methods to study protein motion and interactions. This innovative approach enables the identification and development of therapies targeting complex diseases, particularly in oncology. Relay Therapeutics is advancing a pipeline of product candidates, including RLY-1971, a small molecule inhibitor targeting SHP2, RLY-4008, a selective inhibitor of FGFR2 for advanced solid tumors, and RLY-PI3K1047, aimed at mutant variants of phosphoinositide 3-kinase alpha. Founded in 2015, the company aims to deliver life-changing therapies to patients by addressing previously intractable targets in precision oncology and genetic diseases.
Metacrine
Series B in 2017
Metacrine, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Diego, California, dedicated to developing innovative therapies for liver and gastrointestinal diseases. The company is advancing its lead programs, which target the farnesoid X receptor (FXR), a key drug target in these conditions. Currently, MET409 is undergoing a Phase Ib proof-of-concept clinical trial for patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, while MET642 is in a Phase 1 clinical trial for the same patient population. In addition to its FXR-focused programs, Metacrine is exploring a pipeline of novel drug candidates through its internal research and development capabilities. The company also collaborates with Novo Nordisk A/S to further research related to fibroblast growth factor 1. Metacrine was founded in 2014 and is committed to addressing unmet medical needs in liver and gastrointestinal health.
Obsidian Therapeutics
Series A in 2017
Obsidian Therapeutics develops innovative cell and gene therapies aimed at enhancing adoptive immunotherapy for cancer patients. Founded in 2015 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company focuses on creating next-generation therapies that utilize pharmacologic operating systems to provide precise control over protein activity within cells. This technology allows for the development of adoptive cell therapies with advanced functionalities that can be managed by physicians using simple, safe, and orally active medications. By offering improved control over treatment, Obsidian Therapeutics aims to provide better outcomes for patients compared to existing cell therapy options.
Codiak Biosciences
Series C in 2017
Codiak BioSciences is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing exosome-based therapeutics, a novel class of medicines with the potential to address various diseases with significant unmet medical needs. The company employs its proprietary engEx Platform, which allows for the engineering and manufacturing of exosomes, leveraging their natural role as intercellular messengers. Codiak's pipeline includes product candidates such as exoSTING and exoIL-12, targeting diverse therapeutic areas including oncology, neuro-oncology, neurology, neuromuscular diseases, and infectious diseases. Additionally, the company collaborates with the Ragon Institute to explore the potential of its exoVACC platform for vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 and HIV. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Codiak aims to transform therapeutic approaches by harnessing the unique properties of exosomes.
Ribometrix
Seed Round in 2017
Ribometrix, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Durham, North Carolina, focused on discovering and developing small molecule drugs that target functional three-dimensional RNA structures to treat various human diseases. Established in 2014, the company utilizes advanced expertise in RNA structural analysis to identify novel small molecules that can inhibit the production of proteins associated with diseases. Ribometrix's innovative platform combines proprietary RNA structure determination techniques with cutting-edge RNA tools and artificial intelligence capabilities, allowing researchers to effectively analyze and manipulate RNA biology. The company operates scientific offices in a renovated Biolabs space in Durham, along with additional offices in Chapel Hill and Boston.
Gritstone bio
Series B in 2017
Gritstone bio is a biotechnology company focused on developing personalized immunotherapies for cancer and infectious diseases. The company initially concentrated on tumor-specific neoantigens but has expanded its programs to include viral antigens found on the surfaces of infected cells. This approach leverages the immune system's ability to recognize abnormal cell targets, which is crucial for both anti-tumor and anti-viral immunity. Gritstone bio is building a robust pipeline of immunotherapy product candidates, including GRANITE, SLATE, and CORAL, designed to address various solid tumors. Through these developments, Gritstone bio aims to contribute to the evolving landscape of cancer treatment and enhance patient outcomes.
Effector Therapeutics
Series C in 2017
eFFECTOR Therapeutics Inc is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Diego, California. Established in 2012, the company specializes in developing selective translation regulators for cancer and other serious diseases. Its innovative approach involves small molecule drugs known as selective translation regulator inhibitors (STRIs), which target the eIF4F complex and its associated kinase, mitogen-activated protein kinase 1/2 (MNK 1/2). This complex plays a crucial role in the translation of specific messenger RNA into proteins linked to cancer progression. eFFECTOR's lead product candidate, tomivosertib, is currently being evaluated in a Phase 2b trial in combination with pembrolizumab for non-small cell lung cancer. Additionally, zotatifin, an inhibitor of eIF4A, is undergoing dose-escalation trials with plans for further expansion. The company also collaborates with Pfizer to develop inhibitors targeting eIF4E. Through these efforts, eFFECTOR aims to address the challenges of tumor growth, survival, and immune evasion in cancer treatment.
Evelo Biosciences
Series B in 2017
Evelo Biosciences, Inc., established in 2015, is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It specializes in the discovery and development of a novel class of medicines known as monoclonal microbials, which are orally delivered and designed to modulate systemic immunology and biology by interacting with human cells in the gut. Evelo's pipeline includes EDP1815, currently in a Phase 1b clinical trial for psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, and EDP1503, in a Phase 1/2 study for various cancer types, including colorectal, triple-negative breast, and melanoma. The company aims to apply this innovative approach across a broad range of diseases, including autoimmune, immunoinflammatory, metabolic, neurological, neuroinflammatory conditions, and cancer.
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