LimmaTech Biologics
Grant in 2025
LimmaTech Biologics is a clinical-stage biotech company focused on developing vaccines to prevent life-threatening diseases. It specializes in creating bioconjugate vaccines through innovative techniques such as glycoengineering and protein glycosylation, which improve the efficiency of vaccine development and address challenges associated with traditional chemical conjugation methods. The company's proprietary self-adjuvanting and multi-antigen vaccine platforms target microbial infections that are increasingly resistant to existing treatments. LimmaTech Biologics is dedicated to expanding its pipeline, aiming to provide effective solutions for infectious diseases that currently have limited treatment options. Through its research and development efforts, the company seeks to enhance healthcare outcomes by delivering tailored vaccines for specific pathogens.
Visby Medical
Grant in 2025
Visby Medical, Inc. is a diagnostics company based in San Jose, California, specializing in the development of polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based diagnostic tests for infectious diseases. Founded in 2008 and formerly known as Click Diagnostics Inc., the company focuses on creating single-use, handheld testing kits that provide instrument-free results for various health conditions, including respiratory infections and sexually transmitted diseases. Visby Medical aims to redefine the testing and treatment of illnesses through a human-centric, technology-driven approach, ensuring that diagnostic tools are not only highly accurate but also user-friendly. The company's services are utilized by governments, national NGOs, and private health providers, reflecting its commitment to making infectious disease testing more accessible and convenient for patients.
Melio is a healthcare company based in Santa Clara, California, specializing in blood testing technology aimed at detecting prevalent infections. The company has developed a comprehensive blood test platform that identifies common pathogens responsible for bloodstream infections. Utilizing a patented melting technique followed by detailed analysis, Melio's technology enables quick and accurate identification of blood-based pathogens. This innovation allows healthcare providers to deliver timely and targeted treatment, addressing the urgent need for effective therapies while also contributing to the fight against antibiotic resistance.
Basilea Pharmaceutica
Grant in 2024
Basilea Pharmaceutica AG is a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Basel, Switzerland, focused on developing innovative treatments for severe bacterial and fungal infections, as well as oncology. The company markets isavuconazole, an antifungal drug available in intravenous and oral forms, to treat invasive aspergillosis and mucormycosis. Additionally, Basilea offers ceftobiprole, an intravenous antibiotic for treating community and hospital-acquired pneumonia, and is conducting Phase III clinical trials for its use in acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections, as well as Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia. The company is also advancing several investigational therapies, including Derazantinib, a small molecule inhibitor for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma; BAL101553, a tumor checkpoint controller; and BAL3833, a panRAF/SRC kinase inhibitor. With operational subsidiaries in the United Kingdom and Germany, Basilea Pharmaceutica's products are available in multiple countries, including the United States and various European and non-European markets.
GangaGen, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Palo Alto, California, with research and development operations in Bangalore, India. Founded in 2000, GangaGen focuses on the discovery and development of novel therapeutic proteins aimed at preventing and treating infectious diseases, particularly those caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The company utilizes a proprietary platform to create highly-specific therapeutic proteins known as ectolysins. Its lead product, P128, is a recombinant protein designed to target and eliminate Staphylococcus, including methicillin-resistant strains like MRSA. GangaGen's innovative approach also addresses infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria, such as Klebsiella pneumonia, enabling effective treatments for serious conditions like pneumonia and neonatal sepsis.
Vedanta Biosciences
Grant in 2024
Vedanta Biosciences, Inc. is a clinical-stage microbiome company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focusing on the development of therapies for immune-mediated diseases. Established in 2010, the company specializes in creating immunotherapies utilizing human microbiome-derived bacteria. Its innovative platform includes a collection of defined bacterial consortia, proprietary assays for selecting effective strains, and extensive datasets from human interventional studies. Vedanta Biosciences also possesses capabilities for cGMP-compliant manufacturing, allowing for the production of live bacterial therapies in powder form. This enables healthcare providers to administer oral treatments aimed at addressing autoimmune and inflammatory diseases efficiently, potentially pioneering a new category of therapies based on the human microbiome.
Snipr Biome ApS is a biotechnology company based in Copenhagen, Denmark, that focuses on developing innovative CRISPR technology for the treatment of microbial diseases. Incorporated in 2017, the company aims to revolutionize healthcare by utilizing a programmable approach to the adaptive immune system, enabling the targeted elimination of hazardous bacteria based on their specific DNA sequences. Snipr Biome's novel medicines are designed to provide health professionals with effective tools for microbiome engineering, allowing for selective targeting and destruction of harmful bacteria in vivo.
Basilea Pharmaceutica
Grant in 2024
Basilea Pharmaceutica AG is a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Basel, Switzerland, focused on developing innovative treatments for severe bacterial and fungal infections, as well as oncology. The company markets isavuconazole, an antifungal drug available in intravenous and oral forms, to treat invasive aspergillosis and mucormycosis. Additionally, Basilea offers ceftobiprole, an intravenous antibiotic for treating community and hospital-acquired pneumonia, and is conducting Phase III clinical trials for its use in acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections, as well as Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia. The company is also advancing several investigational therapies, including Derazantinib, a small molecule inhibitor for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma; BAL101553, a tumor checkpoint controller; and BAL3833, a panRAF/SRC kinase inhibitor. With operational subsidiaries in the United Kingdom and Germany, Basilea Pharmaceutica's products are available in multiple countries, including the United States and various European and non-European markets.
Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS)
Grant in 2024
Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland is a research institute that focuses on the development of pharmaceutical and natural product-based research for novel anti-infectives.
GlyProVac is focused on developing a glycoprotein-based vaccine to combat Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC), a significant cause of gastrointestinal infections. The company utilizes its proprietary BEMAP technology, which enables the comprehensive identification of O-linked protein glycosylation. This innovative approach helps identify potential targets for antimicrobial intervention, ultimately aiming to enhance immune responses and prevent infections caused by ETEC. Through its research and development efforts, GlyProVac seeks to provide effective solutions for individuals at risk of infection from this bacterium.
Visby Medical
Grant in 2024
Visby Medical, Inc. is a diagnostics company based in San Jose, California, specializing in the development of polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based diagnostic tests for infectious diseases. Founded in 2008 and formerly known as Click Diagnostics Inc., the company focuses on creating single-use, handheld testing kits that provide instrument-free results for various health conditions, including respiratory infections and sexually transmitted diseases. Visby Medical aims to redefine the testing and treatment of illnesses through a human-centric, technology-driven approach, ensuring that diagnostic tools are not only highly accurate but also user-friendly. The company's services are utilized by governments, national NGOs, and private health providers, reflecting its commitment to making infectious disease testing more accessible and convenient for patients.
Syntiron is a biotechnology company specializing in the discovery and purification of microbial antigens. Its patented technology targets iron transport proteins in bacteria like Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, which are major causes of neonatal sepsis. This enables rapid identification and extraction of these proteins, facilitating the development of vaccines to prevent these infections.
Intravacc is a research and development organization specializing in vaccinology, with over a century of experience in the field. The company is dedicated to the independent development of vaccines, from initial concepts through to clinical phase I and II studies. Intravacc has a diverse product pipeline and holds numerous patents, reflecting its commitment to innovation in vaccine technology. The organization offers solutions aimed at optimizing vaccine development processes, effectively bridging the gap between early research and late-stage clinical trials. Among its notable projects, Intravacc is focused on developing vaccines to prevent Neisseria gonorrhoea infections, providing essential tools for health practitioners to combat this public health issue.
Doherty Institute
Grant in 2023
The Doherty Institute is a renowned organization dedicated to advancing global health through research, diagnostics, and clinical services. It focuses on improving public health by conducting discovery research aimed at preventing, treating, and curing infectious diseases. The institute offers educational opportunities at undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional development levels, aligning with its research themes in immunology, viral infectious diseases, host-pathogen interactions, antimicrobial resistance, public health, epidemiology, and genomics. By integrating these disciplines, the Doherty Institute enables researchers to develop innovative solutions for combating infectious diseases worldwide.
GangaGen, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Palo Alto, California, with research and development operations in Bangalore, India. Founded in 2000, GangaGen focuses on the discovery and development of novel therapeutic proteins aimed at preventing and treating infectious diseases, particularly those caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The company utilizes a proprietary platform to create highly-specific therapeutic proteins known as ectolysins. Its lead product, P128, is a recombinant protein designed to target and eliminate Staphylococcus, including methicillin-resistant strains like MRSA. GangaGen's innovative approach also addresses infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria, such as Klebsiella pneumonia, enabling effective treatments for serious conditions like pneumonia and neonatal sepsis.
Day Zero Diagnostics
Grant in 2022
Day Zero Diagnostics Inc. is an innovative company focused on transforming infectious disease diagnostics through advanced sequencing technologies. Based in Boston, Massachusetts, the company has developed a rapid diagnostic system that identifies bacterial species and their antibiotic resistance profiles directly from clinical samples. Key technologies include Blood2Bac, which enriches bacterial DNA, and BacDetect, allowing for swift detection of bacterial DNA. Additionally, the company employs machine learning algorithms for genomic antibiotic susceptibility testing and maintains a comprehensive microbial database that integrates genomic sequencing data with resistance profiles. By enabling rapid and accurate diagnoses, Day Zero Diagnostics aims to address critical needs in managing bloodstream infections and sepsis, reducing the time for diagnosis from days to hours and improving patient outcomes through targeted treatments.
Avails Medical
Grant in 2022
Avails Medical, Inc., founded in 2013 and headquartered in Menlo Park, California, is an in vitro diagnostics company focused on addressing antibiotic resistance and healthcare-associated infections. The company's flagship product, eQuant, is a compact instrument that uses a cuvette with an integrated electrical sensor to detect infections rapidly and accurately from any bodily fluid. This technology provides real-time information on the most effective antibiotics at the point of prescription, significantly reducing time-to-treatment from days to minutes. By enabling diagnostic-guided therapy at the point-of-care, Avails Medical aims to transform the diagnostics market and combat the global health threat of antibiotic resistance.
Clarametyx Biosciences
Grant in 2022
Clarametyx Biosciences, Inc. is a biotechnology company founded in 2020 and headquartered in Columbus, Ohio. The company focuses on developing targeted and immune-enabling biologic therapies that address persistent infections associated with biofilms, which are protective layers that shield bacteria and complicate treatment. Clarametyx has created a novel technology platform that allows for the targeting of these biofilms, thereby enhancing immune response and facilitating antibiotic intervention. One of its key products in development is CMTX-001, a humanized monoclonal antibody currently in the late preclinical stage, aimed at treating hospital-acquired pneumonia. Clarametyx Biosciences is dedicated to combating life-threatening infections and reducing antibiotic resistance through its innovative therapeutic solutions.
Debiopharm Group
Grant in 2021
Debiopharm Group is a biopharmaceutical development specialist based in Lausanne, Switzerland, focusing on in-licensing promising biologics and small molecule drug candidates for global registration. The group aims to maximize the commercial potential of its products through out-licensing agreements with pharmaceutical partners for sales and marketing. It operates multiple investment arms, including the Debiopharm Innovation Fund, which invests in early-stage companies within the biotechnology, diagnostics, and digital health sectors, focusing on smart data and biomarker development. This fund typically invests between $1 million and $10 million, seeking minority stakes and board representation in its portfolio companies. Additionally, Debiopharm Investment engages in private equity and real estate investments, targeting mature companies in IT security and renewable sectors, as well as residential and commercial properties primarily in Western Europe. With a commitment to long-term investments and active involvement in corporate governance, Debiopharm Group drives its portfolio companies toward successful market exits.
Vaxcyte, Inc. is a preclinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative vaccines to prevent and treat infectious diseases globally. Headquartered in Foster City, California, Vaxcyte's lead candidate is VAX-24, a 24-valent investigational pneumococcal conjugate vaccine. The company is also advancing VAX-XP, which aims to address emerging strains of pneumococcal disease and antibiotic resistance. Additionally, Vaxcyte is developing VAX-A1, a conjugate vaccine for Group A Streptococcus, and VAX-PG, a novel therapeutic vaccine targeting periodontal disease. Utilizing a proprietary cell-free protein synthesis platform, Vaxcyte designs and produces the essential components of vaccines, enhancing their efficacy compared to traditional technologies. Founded in 2013 and originally named SutroVax, Vaxcyte rebranded in May 2020 to reflect its commitment to improving global health through superior vaccine development.
Accelerate Diagnostics
Grant in 2021
Accelerate Diagnostics, Inc. is an in vitro diagnostics company based in Tucson, Arizona, that specializes in the rapid identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing of infectious pathogens. Founded in 1982, the company focuses on addressing the challenges posed by drug-resistant organisms and hospital-acquired infections. Its flagship platform, the Accelerate Pheno system, utilizes advanced genomic and phenotypic detection technologies to deliver results significantly faster than traditional methods, such as bacterial culturing. This system can analyze a positive blood culture sample in approximately five hours, streamlining the diagnosis of serious infections caused by both gram-positive and gram-negative organisms, as well as yeast. Accelerate Diagnostics primarily generates revenue from the domestic market while also serving clients in Europe and the Middle East.
BioVersys AG is a biopharmaceutical company based in Basel, specializing in the research and development of innovative therapies aimed at addressing multidrug-resistant bacterial infections. The company is dedicated to combating the growing global health challenge posed by bacterial drug resistance, which severely limits the effectiveness of current antibiotics. BioVersys employs its proprietary TRIC (Transcriptional Regulator Inhibitory Compounds) technology platform to identify new treatments by targeting and inhibiting the mechanisms that confer resistance to bacterial pathogens. This approach not only enhances the efficacy of existing antibiotics but also provides healthcare professionals with new therapeutic options to treat life-threatening infections.
Snipr Biome ApS is a biotechnology company based in Copenhagen, Denmark, that focuses on developing innovative CRISPR technology for the treatment of microbial diseases. Incorporated in 2017, the company aims to revolutionize healthcare by utilizing a programmable approach to the adaptive immune system, enabling the targeted elimination of hazardous bacteria based on their specific DNA sequences. Snipr Biome's novel medicines are designed to provide health professionals with effective tools for microbiome engineering, allowing for selective targeting and destruction of harmful bacteria in vivo.
Basilea Pharmaceutica
Grant in 2021
Basilea Pharmaceutica AG is a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Basel, Switzerland, focused on developing innovative treatments for severe bacterial and fungal infections, as well as oncology. The company markets isavuconazole, an antifungal drug available in intravenous and oral forms, to treat invasive aspergillosis and mucormycosis. Additionally, Basilea offers ceftobiprole, an intravenous antibiotic for treating community and hospital-acquired pneumonia, and is conducting Phase III clinical trials for its use in acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections, as well as Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia. The company is also advancing several investigational therapies, including Derazantinib, a small molecule inhibitor for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma; BAL101553, a tumor checkpoint controller; and BAL3833, a panRAF/SRC kinase inhibitor. With operational subsidiaries in the United Kingdom and Germany, Basilea Pharmaceutica's products are available in multiple countries, including the United States and various European and non-European markets.
Summit Therapeutics
Grant in 2021
Summit Therapeutics Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, that specializes in the discovery, development, and commercialization of novel antibiotics aimed at treating serious infectious diseases. The company focuses on addressing Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) with its lead product candidate, ridinilazole, which is currently undergoing Phase III clinical trials. Additionally, Summit is developing the DDS-01 series to combat infections caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae and the DDS-04 series targeting Enterobacteriaceae. With operations in the United States and Europe, Summit Therapeutics aims to establish new standards of care for patients while creating value for payors and healthcare providers. Founded in 2003, the company is committed to advancing innovative treatments for infectious diseases.
SpeeDx is a company that specializes in molecular diagnostic solutions, offering advanced testing systems that provide comprehensive information for enhanced patient management. Utilizing innovative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) technology, SpeeDx develops market-leading multiplex detection and priming strategies. Its product portfolio includes diagnostics for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), antibiotic resistance markers, and respiratory diseases. By focusing on multiplex systems, SpeeDx enables healthcare providers to efficiently test for various infectious diseases and assess antibiotic resistance, thereby improving clinical decision-making and patient outcomes.
GenomeKey is an innovative early-phase company focused on addressing critical healthcare challenges through advanced genomic technology and artificial intelligence. The company has developed a diagnostic platform that utilizes DNA sequencing and novel machine learning techniques to rapidly diagnose bacterial presence, species, and antimicrobial resistance within hours, significantly reducing the time required for traditional methods. This automated, lightweight, and scalable system is designed to seamlessly integrate into existing hospital ecosystems, empowering microbiologists to interpret data effectively and gain insights into microbial resistance by identifying new genomic regions.
Baebies, Inc., founded in 2014 by Richard West and Vamsee Pamula, specializes in manufacturing screening and pediatric testing equipment for newborn babies. Based in Durham, North Carolina, the company produces SEEKER, a laboratory solution that performs multiple assays simultaneously to measure lysosomal enzyme activity from a single dried blood spot specimen. Additionally, Baebies manufactures FINDER, a near-patient testing device designed for pediatric diagnostics. The company's technology leverages digital microfluidics to maximize diagnostic yield from small sample volumes. SEEKER is FDA authorized and CE marked, while the FINDER platforms are also CE marked, with the FINDER 1.5 SARS-CoV-2 test receiving emergency use authorization from the FDA. Baebies serves hospitals and public health labs, aiming to enhance early disease detection and improve diagnostic capabilities for newborns and patients worldwide.
Phico Therapeutics
Grant in 2021
Phico Therapeutics Limited is a biotechnology company based in Bourn, United Kingdom, that specializes in developing innovative antibiotics to combat antibacterial resistance. The company utilizes its proprietary SASPject platform, which employs small acid-soluble spore proteins delivered via targetable non-delivery vehicles to specific bacterial strains. Its product portfolio includes SASPject PT3, designed to target Pseudomonas aeruginosa; SASPject PT4 and PT5, which are aimed at Klebsiella pneumonia and Escherichia coli, respectively; and SASPject PT1.2, focused on Staphylococcus aureus. Additionally, Phico Therapeutics is working on an intravenous-engineered bacteriophage drug intended to treat ventilator-associated pneumonia by using engineered bacterial viruses in conjunction with antibacterial proteins to inhibit bacterial growth and toxin release. Founded in 2000, the company is dedicated to addressing critical challenges in antibiotic resistance through its advanced therapeutic approaches.
Novel Microdevices
Grant in 2021
Novel Microdevices, LLC is a medical device company that specializes in the development of handheld devices for molecular diagnostics. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Annapolis, Maryland, the company has created the NOVEL DX device, which employs microfluidics technology to analyze raw biological samples at the point of care. This device delivers results in approximately 30 minutes, allowing healthcare professionals to achieve lab-quality diagnostics without the need for a traditional laboratory setting. Novel Microdevices caters to various sectors, including clinical diagnostics, biodefense, food safety, forensics, drug discovery, animal care, and agriculture, thus addressing a wide range of applications in health and safety.
Jenner Institute
Grant in 2021
The Jenner Institute was founded in November 2005 to develop innovative vaccines against major global diseases. Uniquely it focuses both on diseases of humans and livestock and tests new vaccine approaches in parallel in different species. A major theme is translational research involving the rapid early-stage development and assessment of new vaccines in clinical trials. The Institute comprises the research activities of over 30 Jenner Investigators who head leading research groups spanning human and veterinary vaccine research and development. Together the Institute Investigators comprise one of the largest non-profit sector research and development activities in vaccinology. Jenner Institute Investigators, through the support of many funders, are developing new vaccine candidates against major global infectious diseases. New vaccines against malaria, tuberculosis and HIV are currently in field trials in the developing world. Research is also underway on livestock vaccines against foot and mouth disease, avian influenza, bovine tuberculosis and other major causes of economic loss.
Affinivax, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Lexington, Massachusetts, specializing in the development of vaccines using its innovative Multiple Antigen Presenting System (MAPS) technology. Founded in 2014, the company aims to enhance the protection against a range of infectious diseases that affect both children and adults globally. MAPS technology allows for the effective binding of protective polysaccharides and proteins within a single vaccine, inducing robust immune responses. Affinivax is advancing vaccine programs targeting significant pathogens, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, which contributes to considerable morbidity and mortality worldwide. The company leverages insights from leading experts in infectious diseases and has secured exclusive intellectual property rights related to its MAPS platform from Boston Children’s Hospital, with notable backing from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
GlaxoSmithKline
Grant in 2021
GlaxoSmithKline is a global healthcare company based in the United Kingdom, dedicated to improving health outcomes by providing innovative and high-quality healthcare products. The company operates through three main divisions: Pharmaceuticals, Vaccines, and Consumer Healthcare. Its Pharmaceuticals unit features a diverse range of innovative and established medicines, with a strong focus on respiratory diseases and HIV. The research and development efforts emphasize immunology, genetics, and advanced technologies. GSK's Vaccines division is notable for its extensive portfolio and innovative pipeline, delivering over two million vaccine doses daily to populations in over 160 countries. The Consumer Healthcare segment focuses on developing and marketing a variety of well-regarded brands in categories such as pain relief, respiratory health, oral health, digestive health, nutrition, and skin health. Through its commitment to scientific advancement and public health, GlaxoSmithKline seeks to enable people to lead healthier lives.
University of Queensland
Grant in 2021
The University of Queensland (UQ) is a prominent public research university located in Brisbane, Australia, established in 1909. It offers a comprehensive range of academic programs, including associate, bachelor, master, doctoral, and higher doctorate degrees. UQ is renowned for its commitment to high-quality education, having received more national teaching awards than any other university in Australia. With a student population of approximately 53,600, UQ operates across three campuses and is consistently ranked among the top universities globally. Its focus on knowledge leadership aims to foster positive societal change, reinforcing its reputation as a leading institution in higher education.
Institute for Molecular Bioscience
Grant in 2021
Institute for Molecular Bioscience is a research institute at The University of Queensland.
Avails Medical
Grant in 2021
Avails Medical, Inc., founded in 2013 and headquartered in Menlo Park, California, is an in vitro diagnostics company focused on addressing antibiotic resistance and healthcare-associated infections. The company's flagship product, eQuant, is a compact instrument that uses a cuvette with an integrated electrical sensor to detect infections rapidly and accurately from any bodily fluid. This technology provides real-time information on the most effective antibiotics at the point of prescription, significantly reducing time-to-treatment from days to minutes. By enabling diagnostic-guided therapy at the point-of-care, Avails Medical aims to transform the diagnostics market and combat the global health threat of antibiotic resistance.
Lumen Bioscience
Grant in 2021
Lumen Bioscience, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing therapeutic biologics for oral delivery. Established in 2017 and based in Seattle, Washington, the company utilizes Spirulina, a blue-green algae, as an industrial-scale production platform for manufacturing high-value molecules. Lumen Bioscience aims to transform the biologics industry by developing biologic drugs more rapidly and cost-effectively than traditional methods. The company offers expertise in synthetic biology, protein design, immunology, bioreactor engineering, and cell physiology, catering to the food, cosmetics, and healthcare sectors. By addressing prevalent diseases that currently lack effective treatments, Lumen Bioscience strives to provide clinicians with innovative therapeutics that were previously inaccessible within the biopharmaceutical landscape.
Spexis AG is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Allschwil, Switzerland, specializing in the discovery and development of macrocycle drugs and antibiotics to address severe or life-threatening diseases. Founded in 1996, the company focuses on addressing high unmet medical needs, particularly in the areas of antibiotic resistance and respiratory diseases. Spexis's lead product, murepavadin, is currently in Phase III development targeting Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a pathogen identified as a critical priority by the World Health Organization. The company's operations are centered on research, development, and the prospective commercialization of innovative therapeutics in the respiratory domain.
Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research
Grant in 2020
The Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research applies basic research findings to medical applications. The company's goal is to lay the groundwork for new diagnostic tools, drugs, and therapies for infectious diseases. It researches pathogens that are medically important or can be used as models for infection research. Understanding these mechanisms will aid in the development of new drugs and vaccines to combat infectious diseases.
Vaxcyte, Inc. is a preclinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative vaccines to prevent and treat infectious diseases globally. Headquartered in Foster City, California, Vaxcyte's lead candidate is VAX-24, a 24-valent investigational pneumococcal conjugate vaccine. The company is also advancing VAX-XP, which aims to address emerging strains of pneumococcal disease and antibiotic resistance. Additionally, Vaxcyte is developing VAX-A1, a conjugate vaccine for Group A Streptococcus, and VAX-PG, a novel therapeutic vaccine targeting periodontal disease. Utilizing a proprietary cell-free protein synthesis platform, Vaxcyte designs and produces the essential components of vaccines, enhancing their efficacy compared to traditional technologies. Founded in 2013 and originally named SutroVax, Vaxcyte rebranded in May 2020 to reflect its commitment to improving global health through superior vaccine development.
Clarametyx Biosciences
Grant in 2020
Clarametyx Biosciences, Inc. is a biotechnology company founded in 2020 and headquartered in Columbus, Ohio. The company focuses on developing targeted and immune-enabling biologic therapies that address persistent infections associated with biofilms, which are protective layers that shield bacteria and complicate treatment. Clarametyx has created a novel technology platform that allows for the targeting of these biofilms, thereby enhancing immune response and facilitating antibiotic intervention. One of its key products in development is CMTX-001, a humanized monoclonal antibody currently in the late preclinical stage, aimed at treating hospital-acquired pneumonia. Clarametyx Biosciences is dedicated to combating life-threatening infections and reducing antibiotic resistance through its innovative therapeutic solutions.
Locus Biosciences
Grant in 2020
Locus Biosciences is a biotechnology company focused on developing a CRISPR-engineered precision antibacterial platform aimed at transforming the treatment of bacterial diseases. The company integrates the antibacterial capabilities of CRISPR-Cas3 technology with the effective and safe delivery of bacteriophages, which are viruses that specifically target bacteria. This innovative approach allows for rapid initiation of treatment by physicians, leading to improved medical outcomes for patients. Through its advanced platform, Locus Biosciences seeks to address the challenges posed by pathogenic bacteria in a precise and targeted manner.
Cellics Therapeutics
Grant in 2020
Cellics Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in San Diego, California, focused on developing innovative biomimetic nanomedicines to address serious diseases with significant unmet medical needs. Founded in 2014, Cellics utilizes its proprietary nanosponge technology to create therapeutics targeting autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, as well as challenging infectious diseases. The company's lead product candidate, CTI-005, is currently advancing toward human clinical trials for the treatment of bacterial pneumonia. In addition to its therapeutic efforts, Cellics is also dedicated to developing advanced vaccines for various diseases, aiming to improve patient health and save lives through its cutting-edge approach.
Spexis AG is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Allschwil, Switzerland, specializing in the discovery and development of macrocycle drugs and antibiotics to address severe or life-threatening diseases. Founded in 1996, the company focuses on addressing high unmet medical needs, particularly in the areas of antibiotic resistance and respiratory diseases. Spexis's lead product, murepavadin, is currently in Phase III development targeting Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a pathogen identified as a critical priority by the World Health Organization. The company's operations are centered on research, development, and the prospective commercialization of innovative therapeutics in the respiratory domain.
GangaGen, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Palo Alto, California, with research and development operations in Bangalore, India. Founded in 2000, GangaGen focuses on the discovery and development of novel therapeutic proteins aimed at preventing and treating infectious diseases, particularly those caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The company utilizes a proprietary platform to create highly-specific therapeutic proteins known as ectolysins. Its lead product, P128, is a recombinant protein designed to target and eliminate Staphylococcus, including methicillin-resistant strains like MRSA. GangaGen's innovative approach also addresses infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria, such as Klebsiella pneumonia, enabling effective treatments for serious conditions like pneumonia and neonatal sepsis.
GlaxoSmithKline
Grant in 2020
GlaxoSmithKline is a global healthcare company based in the United Kingdom, dedicated to improving health outcomes by providing innovative and high-quality healthcare products. The company operates through three main divisions: Pharmaceuticals, Vaccines, and Consumer Healthcare. Its Pharmaceuticals unit features a diverse range of innovative and established medicines, with a strong focus on respiratory diseases and HIV. The research and development efforts emphasize immunology, genetics, and advanced technologies. GSK's Vaccines division is notable for its extensive portfolio and innovative pipeline, delivering over two million vaccine doses daily to populations in over 160 countries. The Consumer Healthcare segment focuses on developing and marketing a variety of well-regarded brands in categories such as pain relief, respiratory health, oral health, digestive health, nutrition, and skin health. Through its commitment to scientific advancement and public health, GlaxoSmithKline seeks to enable people to lead healthier lives.
Mutabilis SAS is a biopharmaceutical company based in Romainville, France, founded in 2001. It specializes in the research and development of innovative anti-infectious treatments, with a particular focus on addressing multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative bacterial infections. The company develops new chemical entities from biological targets through to the end of phase I clinical trials. Mutabilis' therapies are designed to combat severe bacterial infections, including nosocomial infections acquired in healthcare settings. As of June 2009, it operates as a subsidiary of Pharma Omnium International SAS.
MicuRx Pharmaceuticals
Grant in 2020
MicuRx Pharmaceuticals is a biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing novel antibiotics to combat drug-resistant bacterial infections. Founded in 2007 and based in Palo Alto, California, MicuRx operates with research and development facilities in both San Francisco, California, and Shanghai, China. The company's portfolio includes MRX-I, an oral antibiotic effective against multi-drug resistant gram-positive pathogens such as methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus and vancomycin-resistant enterococci; MRX-IV, a water-soluble prodrug form of MRX-I for intravenous use; MRX-V, an injectable antibiotic targeting gram-negative bacteria; and MRX-VIII, a polymyxin for gram-negative infections. Additionally, MicuRx's pipeline includes other antibacterial drugs designed to combat both gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial pathogens. The company employs a hybrid U.S./China business model, leveraging U.S. research and development with cost-efficient scientific resources in China. Shanghai MicuRx commercializes the agent contezolid in China, while global clinical studies are ongoing.
Evotec is a drug discovery partnership firm that collaborates with pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, academic institutions, and nonprofit organizations to advance innovative therapeutic solutions. The company specializes in a range of therapeutic areas, including central nervous system disorders, diabetes, inflammation, oncology, infectious diseases, and women's health. Approximately 80% of its revenue comes from shared research and development services, which involve fee-for-service work and integrated drug discovery collaborations utilizing proprietary assets. The remaining 20% of sales derive from its Just-Evotec Biologics segment, which provides contract development and manufacturing organization services for biologics. Evotec's approach emphasizes collaboration with various stakeholders, including patient advocacy groups and venture capitalists, to enhance drug discovery and development processes.
ContraFect Corporation is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Yonkers, New York, dedicated to developing innovative therapies for life-threatening and drug-resistant infectious diseases. Founded in 2008, the company focuses on creating therapeutic protein and antibody products, primarily using its proprietary lysin and monoclonal antibody platforms. Its lead candidate, CF-301, is an investigational lysin currently in Phase III trials for treating staphylococcus aureus bacteremia, including infections caused by methicillin-resistant strains. Additionally, ContraFect is advancing CF-296, which targets invasive staph aureus infections related to biofilms and osteomyelitis, and CF-370, aimed at gram-negative infections such as those caused by pseudomonas aeruginosa. The company also collaborates with The Rockefeller University to discover new lysin candidates targeting gram-negative pathogens and has initiated an expanded access program to provide exebacase for persistent bacteremia in COVID-19 patients.
Vaxdyn is a biotechnology company focused on the development of vaccines and immunotherapies aimed at preventing infectious diseases, particularly those caused by antibiotic-resistant pathogens. Utilizing innovative technology, Vaxdyn's vaccines incorporate antigens, immunomodulators, nanoparticles, and monoclonal antibodies to effectively combat bacterial infections. This approach helps healthcare professionals mitigate the public health impact of infections that are resistant to traditional treatments. The company actively engages with its customers through various communication channels, including phone, email, and online applications, to address inquiries related to their vaccine offerings.
Eligo Bioscience
Grant in 2020
Eligo Bioscience S.A.S is a biotechnology company founded in 2014 and based in Paris, France, specializing in the development of Eligobiotics, a novel class of antimicrobials. These therapeutics are designed to target specific bacteria based on their genomic information, utilizing a combination of CRISPR/Cas technology and engineered phage capsids. This advanced approach allows Eligo to create precision antibiotics aimed at eradicating resistant pathogens and virulent bacteria within the human microbiome. The applications of Eligobiotics extend beyond pharmaceuticals; they also encompass areas such as cosmetics and biodefense, addressing a variety of bacteria-associated diseases and offering next-generation solutions to combat superbugs.
Amicrobe, Inc. is an advanced biomaterials company with innovative product candidates designed to prevent and treat infections. The Company’s new, synthetic block copolypeptides (A-Blocks) are engineered to provide broad antimicrobial activity and superior tissue coverage when our natural barriers of defense are broken in surgery, trauma / burns, and diabetic foot ulcers.
Institute for Molecular Bioscience
Grant in 2020
Institute for Molecular Bioscience is a research institute at The University of Queensland.
Microbion Corporation is a biopharmaceutical company based in Bozeman, Montana, dedicated to developing therapeutics for resistant and difficult-to-treat infections. Founded in 1982, the company focuses on bismuth-thiols, which are aimed at treating chronic and acute wound infections, including post-surgical orthopedic infections. Additionally, Microbion works to prevent microbial biofilms from forming on implanted medical devices and to manage these biofilms in various infectious diseases. Its product development includes treatments for moderate to severe diabetic foot ulcers, orthopedic implant-related infections, and military wound-associated infections, targeting both antibiotic-resistant pathogens and chronic wound care. In addition to its operations in Bozeman, Microbion also maintains an office in Vancouver, Canada.
Day Zero Diagnostics
Grant in 2020
Day Zero Diagnostics Inc. is an innovative company focused on transforming infectious disease diagnostics through advanced sequencing technologies. Based in Boston, Massachusetts, the company has developed a rapid diagnostic system that identifies bacterial species and their antibiotic resistance profiles directly from clinical samples. Key technologies include Blood2Bac, which enriches bacterial DNA, and BacDetect, allowing for swift detection of bacterial DNA. Additionally, the company employs machine learning algorithms for genomic antibiotic susceptibility testing and maintains a comprehensive microbial database that integrates genomic sequencing data with resistance profiles. By enabling rapid and accurate diagnoses, Day Zero Diagnostics aims to address critical needs in managing bloodstream infections and sepsis, reducing the time for diagnosis from days to hours and improving patient outcomes through targeted treatments.
Module Innovations
Grant in 2020
Module Innovations is a healthcare solutions provider focused on enhancing disease management for infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance. The company has developed a portable and affordable point-of-care diagnostic platform that offers rapid and real-time information crucial for improving clinical outcomes. Its initial product line targets pathogens responsible for urinary tract infections (UTIs), including E. coli, Klebsiella, Pseudomonas, and Enterococci, enabling quick pathogen identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing. Utilizing its patented SDSAN technology, Module Innovations delivers UTI identification results in just 15 minutes and provides antibiotic susceptibility information within 2 hours. This innovative approach aims to streamline the diagnostic process, supporting informed decision-making for both clinicians and patients.
Peptilogics
Venture Round in 2020
Peptilogics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania, founded in 2013. The company specializes in designing and developing novel peptide therapeutics aimed at addressing the urgent challenge of multidrug-resistant bacterial infections. Peptilogics utilizes a unique computational platform that enhances drug discovery by exploring new chemical design spaces while ensuring the biological viability and manufacturability of potential therapeutics. Their lead candidate, PLG0206, is a broad-spectrum anti-infective peptide that targets prosthetic joint infections and has received both FDA Orphan Drug Designation and Qualified Infectious Disease Product Designation. Through its innovative eCAP (engineered cationic antibiotic peptide) platform, Peptilogics aims to provide effective treatment options against resistant bacteria and biofilms, ultimately improving patient outcomes and affordability in healthcare.
Lytica Therapeutics
Grant in 2020
Lytica Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing novel peptide therapeutics.
Facile Therapeutics
Grant in 2020
Facile Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing therapeutic drugs for the treatment of Clostridium difficile infection. Founded in 2017 and based in Belmont, California, the company is advancing Ebselen, a novel anti-toxin that preserves healthy gut bacteria, thereby enhancing the colon's resistance to C. diff reinfection. This innovative approach offers healthcare professionals an alternative treatment option that does not rely on traditional antibiotics, which can often disrupt the balance of gut microbiota. Through its research and development efforts, Facile Therapeutics aims to address the growing need for effective treatments for gut infections.
Pattern Bioscience
Grant in 2020
Pattern Bioscience, Inc., known as Klaris Diagnostics, Inc., is a clinical diagnostics company based in Austin, Texas, that focuses on addressing antibiotic resistance. Founded in 2016, the company has developed a next-generation clinical microbiology platform utilizing its patented phenotypic single-cell technology. This innovative approach allows for rapid pathogen identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing without the lengthy culture processes typical of traditional methods. Pattern Bioscience's Digital Culture technology employs artificial intelligence and single-cell analysis, producing comprehensive and reliable diagnostic results significantly faster than the current standard of care. By integrating functional endpoints that account for various resistance mechanisms, the company aims to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of diagnoses in the fight against antibiotic-resistant infections.
Centauri Therapeutics
Grant in 2020
Centauri Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of innovative immunotherapeutics aimed at addressing life-threatening diseases. Utilizing its proprietary Alphamer technology, Centauri creates chemically synthesized molecules that redirect naturally occurring antibodies to specific pathogens, enhancing the body's immune response. The company's dual-action approach involves directly targeting cell surface antigens while employing a glycan effector domain to stimulate a robust polyclonal immune response. This mechanism promotes cell death via enhanced complement fixation, antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity, and phagocytosis by myeloid cells. Centauri has demonstrated strong pre-clinical results, showcasing significant improvements in complement fixation and opsonophagocytosis for both anti-bacterial and oncology therapeutics, as well as in vivo proof-of-concept data across various infection models.
Antabio is a private biopharmaceutical company based in Labege, France, focused on developing innovative treatments for drug-resistant infections, particularly targeting critical priority pathogens. Founded in 2009, the company specializes in creating novel antibacterial resistance-breakers, including stand-alone inhibitors of bacterial metalloenzymes. These inhibitors are designed to be combined with existing antibiotics, such as carbapenems, to restore their efficacy against the most challenging pathogens responsible for life-threatening infections, including carbapenem-resistant nosocomial pneumonia. Antabio aims to address significant unmet medical needs in the treatment of drug-resistant infections, ultimately providing healthcare professionals with effective medicinal products to combat these critical health challenges. The company has been recognized for its work, receiving a Wellcome Trust Seeding Drug Discovery Award.
University of Queensland
Grant in 2020
The University of Queensland (UQ) is a prominent public research university located in Brisbane, Australia, established in 1909. It offers a comprehensive range of academic programs, including associate, bachelor, master, doctoral, and higher doctorate degrees. UQ is renowned for its commitment to high-quality education, having received more national teaching awards than any other university in Australia. With a student population of approximately 53,600, UQ operates across three campuses and is consistently ranked among the top universities globally. Its focus on knowledge leadership aims to foster positive societal change, reinforcing its reputation as a leading institution in higher education.
HelixBind is a biotechnology company based in Worcester, Massachusetts, founded in 2012. The company specializes in developing a pathogen identification platform that focuses on the rapid detection and unequivocal identification of bloodstream infections. This innovative platform allows for testing directly from whole blood specimens, eliminating the need for traditional blood culture methods. By facilitating quick identification, HelixBind enables physicians to promptly adjust treatment to the most effective targeted antimicrobial interventions and to monitor the effectiveness of these treatments throughout patient care.
Vedanta Biosciences
Grant in 2019
Vedanta Biosciences, Inc. is a clinical-stage microbiome company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focusing on the development of therapies for immune-mediated diseases. Established in 2010, the company specializes in creating immunotherapies utilizing human microbiome-derived bacteria. Its innovative platform includes a collection of defined bacterial consortia, proprietary assays for selecting effective strains, and extensive datasets from human interventional studies. Vedanta Biosciences also possesses capabilities for cGMP-compliant manufacturing, allowing for the production of live bacterial therapies in powder form. This enables healthcare providers to administer oral treatments aimed at addressing autoimmune and inflammatory diseases efficiently, potentially pioneering a new category of therapies based on the human microbiome.
Venatorx Pharmaceuticals
Grant in 2019
Venatorx Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a pharmaceutical company dedicated to the discovery and development of innovative anti-infective agents aimed at addressing multi-drug-resistant (MDR) bacterial infections and challenging viral infections. Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Malvern, Pennsylvania, the company specializes in creating antibacterial drugs that target resistant pathogens, including those responsible for difficult-to-treat infections such as MRSA, Pseudomonas, and Salmonella. By employing novel chemical approaches, Venatorx develops treatments with selective and potent activity against various bacterial resistance mechanisms, thereby enhancing the therapeutic options available to healthcare professionals and addressing significant unmet medical needs in the field of infectious diseases.
Techulon, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Blacksburg, Virginia, specializing in the development of treatments for drug-resistant infections through genomic analysis. Founded in 2006, the company utilizes cell-penetrating peptides technology to create innovative antibiotics and offers research laboratory services. Techulon operates from the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center, where it conducts research and development on biopolymers that have applications in therapeutics, energy, and sustainability. Its proprietary platform focuses on novel peptide-peptide nucleic acids antimicrobial compounds, which can identify critical DNA sequences in microbes, thereby enhancing patient care in the treatment of infectious diseases.
BioVersys AG is a biopharmaceutical company based in Basel, specializing in the research and development of innovative therapies aimed at addressing multidrug-resistant bacterial infections. The company is dedicated to combating the growing global health challenge posed by bacterial drug resistance, which severely limits the effectiveness of current antibiotics. BioVersys employs its proprietary TRIC (Transcriptional Regulator Inhibitory Compounds) technology platform to identify new treatments by targeting and inhibiting the mechanisms that confer resistance to bacterial pathogens. This approach not only enhances the efficacy of existing antibiotics but also provides healthcare professionals with new therapeutic options to treat life-threatening infections.
Trellis Bioscience
Grant in 2019
Trellis Bioscience LLC is a biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing human antibody therapeutics for infectious diseases and oncology. The company utilizes its proprietary CellSpot technology platform to identify and extract rare, naturally optimized antibodies from healthy human donor blood cells. This enables the development of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies targeting various infectious diseases and cancer immune checkpoints. Trellis aims to offer alternatives for patients facing challenges with conventional protein therapeutics, particularly in cases where the immune system may attack these treatments. Founded in 1998, Trellis Bioscience is headquartered in Redwood City, California.
Procarta Biosystems
Grant in 2019
Procarta Biosystems Ltd is a biotechnology company based in Norwich, United Kingdom, that specializes in the development of innovative DNA-based antibacterials. Founded in 2007 as a spin-out from the John Innes Centre, Procarta focuses on addressing the critical challenge of drug-resistant bacterial strains, commonly referred to as superbugs. The company has created a versatile platform for antibiotic development, which includes proprietary nanoparticles designed to deliver oligonucleotides directly into bacterial pathogens. Their product range features targeted therapies such as MRSA snare, a solution for both topical and intravenous use; Broad-spectrum Gram-negative therapy snare, aimed at treating hospital-acquired infections; and Cdiff snare, which helps prevent the recurrence of Clostridium difficile infections. With a commitment to combating the rising threat of antibiotic resistance, Procarta Biosystems is positioned to enhance therapeutic options in clinical settings.
TAXIS Pharmaceuticals
Grant in 2019
TAXIS Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Monmouth Junction, New Jersey, established in 2009. The company specializes in developing innovative antibiotics aimed at combating multidrug-resistant bacteria, addressing the escalating issue of antimicrobial resistance. Its lead candidates include TXA709, a prodrug that converts to an active agent in the body, and TXA707, a benzamide derivative that interferes with the FtsZ protein essential for bacterial cell division. TAXIS Pharmaceuticals is committed to employing novel mechanisms of action that differ from existing clinical treatments, leveraging its expertise in discovery chemistry to identify and develop promising compounds suitable for clinical drug candidates.
Vaxxilon AG, headquartered near Basel, Switzerland with research labs in Berlin, specializes in the discovery and development of innovative synthetic carbohydrate vaccines. The company focuses on creating novel vaccines to prevent major infectious diseases by utilizing homogeneous, rationally designed, synthetically produced carbohydrate antigens and advanced carrier molecules. Vaxxilon's team is actively advancing several vaccine candidates through this cutting-edge approach.
Integrated BioTherapeutics
Grant in 2019
Integrated BioTherapeutics is a biotechnology company that focuses on discovering novel vaccines and therapeutics for emerging infectious diseases. Its antiviral pipeline includes unique pan-filovirus antibody candidates, vaccines, and a variety of other product candidates for emerging viruses.
Vaxcyte, Inc. is a preclinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative vaccines to prevent and treat infectious diseases globally. Headquartered in Foster City, California, Vaxcyte's lead candidate is VAX-24, a 24-valent investigational pneumococcal conjugate vaccine. The company is also advancing VAX-XP, which aims to address emerging strains of pneumococcal disease and antibiotic resistance. Additionally, Vaxcyte is developing VAX-A1, a conjugate vaccine for Group A Streptococcus, and VAX-PG, a novel therapeutic vaccine targeting periodontal disease. Utilizing a proprietary cell-free protein synthesis platform, Vaxcyte designs and produces the essential components of vaccines, enhancing their efficacy compared to traditional technologies. Founded in 2013 and originally named SutroVax, Vaxcyte rebranded in May 2020 to reflect its commitment to improving global health through superior vaccine development.
Debiopharm Group
Grant in 2019
Debiopharm Group is a biopharmaceutical development specialist based in Lausanne, Switzerland, focusing on in-licensing promising biologics and small molecule drug candidates for global registration. The group aims to maximize the commercial potential of its products through out-licensing agreements with pharmaceutical partners for sales and marketing. It operates multiple investment arms, including the Debiopharm Innovation Fund, which invests in early-stage companies within the biotechnology, diagnostics, and digital health sectors, focusing on smart data and biomarker development. This fund typically invests between $1 million and $10 million, seeking minority stakes and board representation in its portfolio companies. Additionally, Debiopharm Investment engages in private equity and real estate investments, targeting mature companies in IT security and renewable sectors, as well as residential and commercial properties primarily in Western Europe. With a commitment to long-term investments and active involvement in corporate governance, Debiopharm Group drives its portfolio companies toward successful market exits.
Oxford Drug Design
Grant in 2019
Oxford Drug Design is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative therapies to combat drug-resistant infections. The company employs advanced methodologies in computer-aided drug discovery, encompassing the entire process from target identification to preclinical studies and formulation. Its multidisciplinary research team integrates breakthroughs in computational chemistry, cheminformatics, mathematics, and cloud computing to enhance drug discovery efforts. The company's flagship platform, DrugFinder, represents a next-generation approach to identifying and developing new antibiotics, particularly targeting challenging diseases with significant unmet medical needs. By leveraging these technologies, Oxford Drug Design aims to provide healthcare professionals with effective treatment options for patients suffering from antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections.
Idorsia Pharmaceuticals
Grant in 2019
Idorsia Ltd is a biopharmaceutical company based in Allschwil, Switzerland, that specializes in discovering, developing, and commercializing innovative medicines to address unmet medical needs. Founded in 2017, Idorsia focuses on various therapeutic areas, including central nervous system disorders, cardiovascular conditions, immunological issues, and orphan diseases. The company's clinical pipeline features treatments for conditions such as resistant hypertension, lupus, insomnia, cerebral vasospasm, and Fabry disease. Idorsia collaborates with several partners, including Janssen Biotech Inc. for the development of aprocitentan, ReveraGen for vamorolone in Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and Hoffman-La Roche for cancer immunotherapy compounds. Additionally, it works with Antares Pharma on a self-administered drug device for Selatogrel and with Neurocrine Biosciences on ACT-709478, currently in Phase 1 trials for epilepsy. With its strong scientific foundation, Idorsia aims to expand the horizon of therapeutic options available to patients.
ContraFect Corporation is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Yonkers, New York, dedicated to developing innovative therapies for life-threatening and drug-resistant infectious diseases. Founded in 2008, the company focuses on creating therapeutic protein and antibody products, primarily using its proprietary lysin and monoclonal antibody platforms. Its lead candidate, CF-301, is an investigational lysin currently in Phase III trials for treating staphylococcus aureus bacteremia, including infections caused by methicillin-resistant strains. Additionally, ContraFect is advancing CF-296, which targets invasive staph aureus infections related to biofilms and osteomyelitis, and CF-370, aimed at gram-negative infections such as those caused by pseudomonas aeruginosa. The company also collaborates with The Rockefeller University to discover new lysin candidates targeting gram-negative pathogens and has initiated an expanded access program to provide exebacase for persistent bacteremia in COVID-19 patients.
Recida Therapeutics
Grant in 2019
Recida Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative antibiotic drugs aimed at treating serious antibiotic-resistant infections. The company specializes in creating novel-class antibiotics that target the increasing challenge posed by multi-drug resistant gram-negative bacteria. Through its research and development efforts, Recida Therapeutics seeks to provide effective therapeutics that enable patients to combat potentially deadly pathogens, addressing a critical need in the healthcare landscape.
Spexis AG is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Allschwil, Switzerland, specializing in the discovery and development of macrocycle drugs and antibiotics to address severe or life-threatening diseases. Founded in 1996, the company focuses on addressing high unmet medical needs, particularly in the areas of antibiotic resistance and respiratory diseases. Spexis's lead product, murepavadin, is currently in Phase III development targeting Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a pathogen identified as a critical priority by the World Health Organization. The company's operations are centered on research, development, and the prospective commercialization of innovative therapeutics in the respiratory domain.
ContraFect Corporation is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Yonkers, New York, dedicated to developing innovative therapies for life-threatening and drug-resistant infectious diseases. Founded in 2008, the company focuses on creating therapeutic protein and antibody products, primarily using its proprietary lysin and monoclonal antibody platforms. Its lead candidate, CF-301, is an investigational lysin currently in Phase III trials for treating staphylococcus aureus bacteremia, including infections caused by methicillin-resistant strains. Additionally, ContraFect is advancing CF-296, which targets invasive staph aureus infections related to biofilms and osteomyelitis, and CF-370, aimed at gram-negative infections such as those caused by pseudomonas aeruginosa. The company also collaborates with The Rockefeller University to discover new lysin candidates targeting gram-negative pathogens and has initiated an expanded access program to provide exebacase for persistent bacteremia in COVID-19 patients.
Forge Therapeutics
Grant in 2019
Forge Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing innovative therapeutics through a unique chemistry platform that targets metalloproteins. The company specializes in creating novel antibiotics aimed at combating multi-drug resistant bacteria. By employing a proprietary approach that combines bioinorganic and medicinal chemistry, Forge develops selective small molecule inhibitors that target metalloenzymes, particularly in gram-negative bacteria. This strategy enables healthcare professionals to effectively access various biochemical processes and biological catalysis essential for treating challenging diseases.
SciBac Inc. develops innovative live biotherapeutics aimed at treating antibiotic-resistant diseases while strengthening the microbiome. Founded in 2015 and located in Milpitas, California, the company utilizes a patented MERGE platform that employs directed evolution to enhance the efficacy of beneficial microorganisms. SciBac's initial therapeutics focus on chronic infections associated with cystic fibrosis, targeting pathogens such as Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus, Burkholderia, and non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM). By safely transferring beneficial genetic traits, SciBac's approach aims to promote rapid recovery and minimize the risk of reinfections, thereby improving treatment outcomes for patients facing these challenging infections.
Summit Therapeutics
Grant in 2018
Summit Therapeutics Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, that specializes in the discovery, development, and commercialization of novel antibiotics aimed at treating serious infectious diseases. The company focuses on addressing Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) with its lead product candidate, ridinilazole, which is currently undergoing Phase III clinical trials. Additionally, Summit is developing the DDS-01 series to combat infections caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae and the DDS-04 series targeting Enterobacteriaceae. With operations in the United States and Europe, Summit Therapeutics aims to establish new standards of care for patients while creating value for payors and healthcare providers. Founded in 2003, the company is committed to advancing innovative treatments for infectious diseases.
BUGWORKS Research
Grant in 2018
Bugworks Research Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative antibiotics to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Founded in 2014, the company operates from its headquarters in Saratoga, California, with additional offices in Adelaide, Australia, and Bengaluru, India. Bugworks specializes in creating a new class of antibiotic drugs designed to withstand drug resistance, offering products such as GYROX-1, an intravenous solution for critical care infections; GYROX-2, an oral treatment for various infections; and GYROX-3, specifically for cystic fibrosis patients. The company's research platform emphasizes broad-spectrum assets and leverages expertise in cancer biology and immunology to address the challenges posed by drug resistance in healthcare.
Talis Biomedical
Grant in 2018
Talis Biomedical Corporation is a diagnostic company founded in 2010 and based in Menlo Park, California, with an additional office in Chicago, Illinois. The company focuses on transforming diagnostic testing through the development and commercialization of innovative products that facilitate accurate, low-cost, and rapid molecular testing for infectious diseases at the point-of-care. Its flagship product, the Talis One platform, is a compact, cloud-enabled molecular diagnostic system that offers sample-to-answer capabilities. This platform is designed to provide timely and efficient testing for various infectious diseases, including COVID-19, thereby enhancing healthcare delivery in senior care facilities and laboratory settings.
Melinta Therapeutics
Grant in 2018
Melinta Therapeutics, Inc. is a commercial-stage pharmaceutical company based in Morristown, New Jersey, specializing in the discovery, development, and commercialization of anti-infective therapies for bacterial infections in North America. The company offers a range of antibiotics, including Baxdela, Vabomere, Orbactiv, and Minocin, targeting various serious bacterial infections such as acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections (ABSSSIs) and gram-negative infections. Melinta is actively advancing its investigational antibiotic, delafloxacin, which is currently in Phase 3 development for ABSSSIs. Additionally, the company is engaged in research to develop new classes of antibiotics aimed at combating drug-resistant pathogens, particularly the ESKAPE group responsible for many hospital-acquired infections. Through its innovative approaches, Melinta Therapeutics addresses the urgent need for new therapies against drug-resistant infections, a critical public health challenge today.
Achaogen, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in South San Francisco, California, that specializes in the development and commercialization of antibacterial agents targeting multi-drug resistant (MDR) gram-negative infections. The company's primary focus is on plazomicin, which is intended for treating serious bacterial infections caused by MDR enterobacteriaceae, including carbapenem-resistant strains. Additionally, Achaogen is developing C-Scape, an orally-administered combination of clavulanate and ceftibuten aimed at addressing serious infections linked to expanded spectrum beta-lactamases producing enterobacteriaceae. Achaogen has established collaborations with various organizations, including Thermo Fisher Scientific and Ionis Pharmaceuticals, to support its drug development efforts. The company was incorporated in 2002, but faced financial difficulties, leading to a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in 2019, which culminated in a liquidation plan approved in 2020. All of Achaogen's revenue has been derived from government contracts for research and development within the United States.
Idorsia Pharmaceuticals
Grant in 2018
Idorsia Ltd is a biopharmaceutical company based in Allschwil, Switzerland, that specializes in discovering, developing, and commercializing innovative medicines to address unmet medical needs. Founded in 2017, Idorsia focuses on various therapeutic areas, including central nervous system disorders, cardiovascular conditions, immunological issues, and orphan diseases. The company's clinical pipeline features treatments for conditions such as resistant hypertension, lupus, insomnia, cerebral vasospasm, and Fabry disease. Idorsia collaborates with several partners, including Janssen Biotech Inc. for the development of aprocitentan, ReveraGen for vamorolone in Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and Hoffman-La Roche for cancer immunotherapy compounds. Additionally, it works with Antares Pharma on a self-administered drug device for Selatogrel and with Neurocrine Biosciences on ACT-709478, currently in Phase 1 trials for epilepsy. With its strong scientific foundation, Idorsia aims to expand the horizon of therapeutic options available to patients.
Shionogi & Co Ltd is a pharmaceutical company that specializes in the manufacturing and distribution of both specialty and generic drugs, as well as diagnostic reagents and medical devices. The company is involved in various stages of drug development, including manufacturing, formulation, packaging, and analysis, which are integral to its commercialization research that extends from late-stage drug discovery to commercial production. Shionogi also emphasizes collaboration through partnerships and licensing agreements with academic institutions and venture companies to enhance its research and development efforts.
HelixBind is a biotechnology company based in Worcester, Massachusetts, founded in 2012. The company specializes in developing a pathogen identification platform that focuses on the rapid detection and unequivocal identification of bloodstream infections. This innovative platform allows for testing directly from whole blood specimens, eliminating the need for traditional blood culture methods. By facilitating quick identification, HelixBind enables physicians to promptly adjust treatment to the most effective targeted antimicrobial interventions and to monitor the effectiveness of these treatments throughout patient care.
T2 Biosystems
Grant in 2018
T2 Biosystems, Inc. is an in vitro diagnostics company specializing in the rapid detection of pathogens and biomarkers to enhance patient care. The company employs its proprietary T2 Magnetic Resonance technology, which allows for the detection of various pathogens directly from unpurified patient samples, such as whole blood and urine, without the need for extensive sample preparation. T2 Biosystems offers several diagnostic products, including the T2Dx Instrument, which is designed to identify pathogens associated with sepsis and Lyme disease. Its product lineup includes the T2Candida Panel for detecting Candida species, the T2Bacteria Panel for identifying bacterial pathogens, the T2SARS-CoV-2 Panel for COVID-19 testing, and the T2Resistance Panel for detecting antibiotic resistance markers. Founded in 2006 and headquartered in Lexington, Massachusetts, T2 Biosystems aims to improve clinical outcomes and reduce healthcare costs by enabling faster and more accurate diagnostic testing.
MicuRx Pharmaceuticals
Grant in 2018
MicuRx Pharmaceuticals is a biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing novel antibiotics to combat drug-resistant bacterial infections. Founded in 2007 and based in Palo Alto, California, MicuRx operates with research and development facilities in both San Francisco, California, and Shanghai, China. The company's portfolio includes MRX-I, an oral antibiotic effective against multi-drug resistant gram-positive pathogens such as methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus and vancomycin-resistant enterococci; MRX-IV, a water-soluble prodrug form of MRX-I for intravenous use; MRX-V, an injectable antibiotic targeting gram-negative bacteria; and MRX-VIII, a polymyxin for gram-negative infections. Additionally, MicuRx's pipeline includes other antibacterial drugs designed to combat both gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial pathogens. The company employs a hybrid U.S./China business model, leveraging U.S. research and development with cost-efficient scientific resources in China. Shanghai MicuRx commercializes the agent contezolid in China, while global clinical studies are ongoing.
Zikani Therapeutics
Grant in 2018
Zikani Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing and commercializing therapeutics for patients with limited treatment options. The company utilizes its TURBO-ZM platform to create novel ribosome modulating agents (RMAs) aimed at treating a range of conditions, including cystic fibrosis, familial adenomatous polyposis, APC mutant colon cancer, recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, rare cancers, and other rare genetic diseases. Founded in 2014 and originally known as Macrolide Pharmaceuticals, Zikani is headquartered in Watertown, Massachusetts. The company's antibiotic compounds leverage advancements in synthetic chemistry and microbiology to address serious, multi-drug resistant gram-negative infections, which are a significant cause of severe health issues in the United States. Through its innovative approach, Zikani Therapeutics seeks to enhance patient outcomes and expand therapeutic options for challenging medical conditions.
Specific Diagnostics
Grant in 2018
Specific Diagnostics LLC, established in 2011 and based in West Palm Beach, Florida, specializes in developing innovative solutions for bacterial detection, identification, and antibiotic susceptibility testing. The company's flagship product is the Specific Reveal system, which employs patented small molecule sensor technology to deliver rapid and cost-effective antibiotic susceptibility results, enabling clinics to tailor treatments more efficiently.
Curza Global, LLC is a therapeutics company focused on developing innovative drugs for infectious diseases and oncology. Established in 2013 and headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, with an additional office in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Curza specializes in creating novel therapeutics to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Its lead program features a new class of broad-spectrum antibiotics targeting ESKAPE pathogens, which include several drug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. This class of antibiotics is inspired by natural products and aims to exploit an unutilized binding site on the bacterial ribosome. Additionally, Curza is advancing a program that develops antibiofilm antibiotics designed to effectively kill bacteria in biofilm phenotypes. As resistance to existing therapies continues to rise, Curza addresses a significant unmet medical need in the field of infectious diseases.
Inhibrx, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company headquartered in La Jolla, California, that specializes in developing a diverse pipeline of novel biologic therapeutic candidates. The company's focus areas include oncology, orphan diseases, and infectious diseases, employing advanced protein engineering techniques, including its proprietary sdAb platform. Among its leading candidates is INBRX-109, a multivalent agonist of death receptor 5, currently in Phase 1 trials for treating solid tumors, including sarcomas. Another candidate, INBRX-105, serves as an antagonist of programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) and a conditional agonist of 4-1BB, also in Phase 1 trials for PD-L1 expressing tumors. Additional candidates include INBRX-101, aimed at alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, and INBRX-103, targeting cluster of differentiation 47. The company's preclinical programs encompass innovative therapies such as INBRX-106, a hexavalent agonist of OX40, and INBRX-111, a multifunctional antibody targeting Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Founded in 2010, Inhibrx has established collaborations with prominent organizations and received funding from various granting agencies.
Vedanta Biosciences
Grant in 2017
Vedanta Biosciences, Inc. is a clinical-stage microbiome company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focusing on the development of therapies for immune-mediated diseases. Established in 2010, the company specializes in creating immunotherapies utilizing human microbiome-derived bacteria. Its innovative platform includes a collection of defined bacterial consortia, proprietary assays for selecting effective strains, and extensive datasets from human interventional studies. Vedanta Biosciences also possesses capabilities for cGMP-compliant manufacturing, allowing for the production of live bacterial therapies in powder form. This enables healthcare providers to administer oral treatments aimed at addressing autoimmune and inflammatory diseases efficiently, potentially pioneering a new category of therapies based on the human microbiome.
Integrated BioTherapeutics
Grant in 2017
Integrated BioTherapeutics is a biotechnology company that focuses on discovering novel vaccines and therapeutics for emerging infectious diseases. Its antiviral pipeline includes unique pan-filovirus antibody candidates, vaccines, and a variety of other product candidates for emerging viruses.