Milestone Pharmaceuticals Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Montréal, Canada, focused on the development and commercialization of etripamil, a novel calcium channel blocker targeting various cardiovascular conditions. Etripamil is designed as a rapid-onset nasal spray for the self-administration by patients, specifically to terminate episodes of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT). The company is currently advancing etripamil through Phase III clinical trials for PSVT in the United States and Canada, as well as conducting Phase II trials for patients with atrial fibrillation experiencing a rapid ventricular rate. Founded in 2003, Milestone aims to address unmet medical needs in the treatment of transient cardiovascular conditions, including atrial fibrillation and angina.
Immunocore Limited is a biotechnology company specializing in the discovery and development of innovative T cell receptor-based therapeutics aimed at treating cancer, viral diseases, and autoimmune disorders. Founded in 1999 and headquartered in Abingdon, United Kingdom, with an additional office in Conshohocken, the company has developed a proprietary technology platform that enables the engineering of T cell receptors (TCRs) linked to antibody fragments. This expertise has led to the advancement of IMCgp100, a bi-specific immunotherapeutic currently undergoing clinical trials for metastatic melanoma. Immunocore's focus on addressing diseases with significant unmet medical needs underscores its commitment to advancing novel treatment options.
Mineralys Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative therapies for hypertension. The company is advancing its lead product candidate, MLS-101, a highly selective and potent aldosterone synthase inhibitor licensed from Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation. Mineralys aims to provide a targeted treatment for patients with uncontrolled hypertension, particularly those who do not achieve adequate blood pressure control despite using multiple antihypertensive medications. By addressing the underlying factors associated with elevated aldosterone levels, Mineralys seeks to improve treatment outcomes for individuals suffering from this condition.
MoonLake Immunotherapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative therapies for immunologic diseases. The company specializes in leveraging Nanobody technology to create new treatments aimed at addressing inflammatory conditions, particularly in the skin and joints. Its lead investigational product, Sonelokimab, represents a novel approach to managing inflammation, with the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes. Through its research and development efforts, MoonLake aims to advance the understanding and treatment of various inflammatory diseases, contributing to the evolving landscape of biopharmaceuticals.
22seventy bio is an immuno-oncology cell therapy company that discovers and develops cancer therapies. The company combines a deep knowledge of cancer cell biology and genetics with an understanding of the immune response to cancer to advance its pipeline. It was established in Cambridge, Massachusetts in 2021.
Beta Bionics is a biotechnology company based in Boston, Massachusetts, focused on advancing diabetes care through its innovative bionic pancreas system, known as the iLet. Founded in 2015, the company has developed a dual-chamber infusion pump that precisely delivers insulin and glucagon, allowing for autonomous management of blood sugar levels. The iLet has received breakthrough designation for its various configurations, including insulin-only, glucagon-only, and bihormonal uses, particularly in conjunction with Zealand Pharma’s dasiglucagon, a stable glucagon analog in a ready-to-use solution. By reducing the burden and cost associated with diabetes management, Beta Bionics aims to improve the quality of life for individuals living with diabetes.
Magnolia Medical Technologies, Inc. is a Seattle-based company that specializes in the development and manufacturing of medical devices aimed at enhancing the accuracy of diagnostic blood culture tests. Its flagship product, SteriPath, is a vacuum-assisted blood collection system designed to divert contaminants from the initial blood sample, thereby reducing the incidence of blood culture sample contamination. The company markets its products through distributors across the United States and has built a robust intellectual property portfolio, consisting of over 70 issued patents and more than 50 pending applications. Founded in 2011, Magnolia Medical Technologies is committed to improving diagnostic specimen quality and increasing the accuracy of critical laboratory tests.
Orchestra BioMed, Inc. is a biomedical innovation company established in 2017 and located in New Hope, Pennsylvania. The company is dedicated to developing high-impact therapeutic solutions for medical procedures, with a primary focus on addressing cardiovascular diseases, which account for a significant number of global fatalities annually. Orchestra BioMed aims to accelerate the commercialization of its products through strategic partnerships with medical device companies. Its leading product candidates include BackBeat Cardiac Neuromodulation Therapy, designed for hypertension treatment, and Virtue Sirolimus AngioInfusion Balloon, which targets atherosclerotic artery disease. By emphasizing evidence-based solutions, Orchestra BioMed seeks to improve patient outcomes for serious medical conditions.
Kyverna Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Berkeley, California, specializing in the development of cell therapies for serious autoimmune diseases. Founded in 2018, Kyverna employs advanced T cell engineering and synthetic biology technologies to target and eliminate autoreactive immune cells, addressing the root causes of inflammatory diseases. The company is advancing its therapeutic platform with product candidates such as KYV-101, an autologous CD19 CAR T-cell therapy, and KYV-201, an allogeneic version utilizing the same chimeric antigen receptor. Through these innovative approaches, Kyverna aims to provide effective treatments and potential cures for patients suffering from autoimmune conditions.
Third Harmonic Bio is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing innovative treatments for severe allergies and inflammation. The company is focused on creating first-in-class oral small-molecule inhibitors targeting the KIT receptor, which plays a crucial role in the survival and function of mast cells—key immune cells involved in allergic responses. Its lead product candidate, THB001, is designed to provide selective inhibition of KIT, while another candidate, THB335, aims to address multiple mast cell-driven inflammatory diseases affecting the skin, respiratory system, and gastrointestinal tract. Through its research and development efforts, Third Harmonic Bio seeks to advance the management of inflammatory diseases, enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life.
Acelyrin is a late-stage clinical biopharmaceutical company dedicated to delivering innovative treatment options to patients. The company specializes in identifying, acquiring, and accelerating the development and commercialization of promising drug candidates. By leveraging its expertise, Acelyrin aims to advance transformative medicines that can significantly improve patient outcomes.
CinCor Pharma, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Cincinnati, Ohio, founded in 2018. The company specializes in the development of treatments for cardiovascular, metabolic, and kidney diseases. Its primary focus is on CIN-107, a novel aldosterone synthase inhibitor aimed at addressing resistant hypertension and primary aldosteronism. By advancing its promising clinical candidates, CinCor Pharma seeks to gain marketing approval for innovative therapies that can effectively address unmet medical needs in these critical areas of health.
Science 37, Inc. is a technology-driven clinical trial company focused on transforming clinical research through patient-centric models. It has developed NORA (Network Oriented Research Assistant), a cloud-based mobile research platform that facilitates communication between researchers and patients via videos, photographs, and surveys, enabling end-to-end networked clinical trial services. The company also offers the Science 37 Metasite, which enhances access to diverse patient populations for clinical studies, and the Science 37 Platform for decentralized clinical trials. By utilizing its virtual model, Science 37 has demonstrated faster enrollment and higher patient retention, reaching a broader and more representative patient demographic than traditional site-based research. The company serves a wide range of clients, including large pharmaceutical firms, biotechnology companies, universities, and startups. Since its incorporation in 2014, Science 37 has established itself as a leader in virtual clinical trials, leveraging an extensive network of telemedicine investigators and home-health nurses to conduct more decentralized interventional trials than any other organization.
Roivant Sciences is a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on enhancing healthcare delivery through innovative drug development. The company aims to reduce the time and cost associated with bringing new medicines to market, sharing those savings with the healthcare system. Roivant achieves this by creating specialized entities known as Vants, which are agile biotech and healthcare technology firms that leverage unique talent sourcing and technology deployment strategies. In addition to its biopharmaceutical subsidiaries, Roivant incubates discovery-stage companies and health technology startups that complement its core business. Among its drug candidates, VTAMA (tapinarof) is designed for the treatment of plaque psoriasis and has reached the commercial stage, while several other candidates, including Batoclimab, IMVT-1402, Brepocitinib, and Namilumab, are in various stages of development.
Ventyx Biosciences, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Encinitas, California, focused on developing selective inhibitors of TYK2 for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Incorporated in 2018, the company boasts a diverse portfolio of innovative clinical and pre-clinical programs aimed at high-value therapeutic targets. Through its research and development efforts, Ventyx is committed to advancing treatments that address unmet medical needs in the autoimmune disease space.
Private Equity Round in 2021
Aadi Bioscience, Inc. is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company based in Pacific Palisades, California, founded by Dr. Neil Desai in 2011. The company focuses on the development of a potentially best-in-class mTOR inhibitor, specifically ABI-009, aimed at treating patients with oncology, cardiovascular, and metabolic diseases. Aadi Bioscience is dedicated to addressing unmet medical needs through its innovative therapeutic approaches in these areas.
Lycia Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Lycia Therapeutics is a biotechnology company that focuses on developing technology that utilizes lysosome-targeting chimeras. The company was founded by Carolyn R. Bertozzi in 2019 and is based in San Diego, California, USA.
Swift Health Systems Inc. is a medical device company based in Irvine, California, that specializes in developing innovative orthodontic solutions. The company's flagship product, INBRACE, is an invisible orthodontic system designed to correct malocclusion by being discreetly positioned behind the teeth. INBRACE employs patented self-guiding technology that utilizes light and continuous forces to gently adjust teeth, minimizing discomfort and reducing the frequency of doctor visits. FDA registered, INBRACE aims to make orthodontic treatment more appealing by addressing common patient concerns and facilitating practice growth for clinicians. The system integrates digital treatment planning, computer modeling, and direct digital manufacturing to offer a scalable and personalized approach to a wide range of orthodontic cases, thereby raising the standard of care in the field.
Renovacor, Inc. is a preclinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Philadelphia that specializes in developing gene therapies for cardiovascular diseases. Founded in 2013, Renovacor is focused on addressing dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a condition that affects over 3 million individuals in the United States. The company's lead program utilizes a recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) to create a gene therapy targeting patients with DCM caused by mutations in the Bcl2-associated athanogene 3 (BAG3) gene. This specific genetic mutation is estimated to affect around 35,000 individuals in the U.S. and a similar number in Europe, representing an orphan disease as defined by FDA guidelines. Patients with BAG3 mutations tend to be younger and experience a faster progression to advanced heart failure compared to those with ischemic heart disease. Currently, these patients receive standard heart failure treatments, but the five-year survival rate remains at only 50%. Renovacor aims to develop a BAG3 gene replacement therapy that could prevent disease progression in this vulnerable population.
Rocket Pharmaceuticals is an emerging biotechnology company focused on developing first-in-class gene therapy treatment options for rare, undertreated diseases. The Company’s lead program is a lentiviral-based gene therapy for the treatment of Fanconi Anemia (FA), a difficult to treat genetic disease that leads to bone marrow failure and potentially cancer. Preclinical studies of additional bone marrow-derived disorders are ongoing and target Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency (PKD), Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency-1 (LAD-1) and Infantile Malignant Osteopetrosis. The Company is also developing an AAV-based gene therapy program for an undisclosed rare pediatric disease.
Neurogastrx, Inc. is a venture-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative therapies for gastrointestinal disorders. Established in 2017 and located in Campbell, California, the company aims to address the unmet medical needs associated with functional and motility disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. One of its key products, NG101, is designed to enhance gastric motility while also possessing antiemetic properties. Neurogastrx's specialty therapies target the enteric nervous system, addressing issues related to gut contractions, sensation, and the brain-gut axis, ultimately striving to alleviate the burden of these disorders on patients and the healthcare system.
Artios Pharma Limited is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, United Kingdom, focused on developing innovative cancer treatments that target DNA damage response (DDR) pathways. Founded in 2015, the company aims to create first-in-class therapies that selectively kill cancer cells by exploiting the mechanisms involved in DNA repair. Its product pipeline features several promising candidates, including DNA polymerase theta (Polθ) and an in-licensed program targeting a novel DDR protein. Artios collaborates with Cancer Research Technology and leading researchers in the field to advance its development efforts. The company's leadership comprises experts with extensive experience in DDR drug discovery, and it has garnered investment from notable entities, including SV Life Sciences and AbbVie Ventures.
Provider of immunotherapies intended to transform cancer treatment and improve quality of life. The company's cellular immunotherapy platform uses gene therapy to target cancer cells and delivers to any patient, with any tumor, at any time to directly, safely, and controllably attack cancer, enabling medical practitioners to safeguard patients by creating and harnessing a powerful immune response in the body.
Alcyone Therapeutics is focused on developing advanced neural intervention technologies aimed at treating neurological conditions. The company utilizes an innovative combination of micro-fabrication techniques and biomedical engineering to create precision genetic therapies for central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Its core product offerings target drug therapies and address conditions such as hydrocephalus, ultimately aiming to enhance treatment options for patients suffering from chronic neuropathological issues. By pioneering next-generation therapies, Alcyone Therapeutics seeks to overcome existing challenges in CNS therapy development and unlock new possibilities for effective treatment.
NiKang Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company established in 2017 and located in Wilmington, Delaware. The company is dedicated to discovering and developing innovative small molecule oncology medicines aimed at addressing unmet medical needs in cancer treatment. By employing a discovery approach that leverages target structure biology and structure-based drug design, NiKang Therapeutics aims to facilitate the rapid and efficient development of proprietary drug candidates with optimal pharmacological properties. The company seeks to enhance the treatment options available to healthcare providers, ultimately improving patient outcomes in the fight against cancer.
Numab Therapeutics AG is a biotechnology company based in Wädenswil, Switzerland, founded in 2011. The company specializes in developing antibody-based therapeutics aimed at treating severe diseases, including cancer and chronic inflammation. Numab utilizes a unique plug-and-play platform that enhances the predictability of the drug discovery process, allowing for the efficient creation of multispecific biotherapeutics. Its research pipeline encompasses various therapeutic areas, including inflammatory bowel disease, immuno-oncology, autoimmunity, and inflammation.
NeoGenomics, Inc. operates a network of cancer-focused testing laboratories in the United States, as well as laboratories in Switzerland and Singapore. It operates in two segments, Clinical Services and Pharma Services. The company’s laboratories provide genetic and molecular testing services to hospitals, pathologists, oncologists, urologists, other clinicians and researchers, pharmaceutical firms, academic centers, and other clinical laboratories. It offers cytogenetics testing services to study normal and abnormal chromosomes and their relationship to diseases; fluorescence in-situ hybridization testing services that focus on detecting and locating the presence or absence of specific DNA sequences and genes on chromosomes; flow cytometry testing services to measure the characteristics of cell populations; immunohistochemistry and digital imaging testing services to localize proteins in cells of a tissue section, as well as to allow clients to see and utilize scanned slides, and perform quantitative analysis for various stains; and molecular testing services, which focus on the analysis of DNA and RNA, and the structure and function of genes at the molecular level. The company also provides morphologic analysis which is the process of analyzing cells under the microscope by a pathologist for the purpose of diagnosis; and testing services in support of its pharmaceutical clients’ oncology programs covering discovery and commercialization, as well as acts as a reference laboratory supplying anatomic pathology testing services. NeoGenomics, Inc. has a strategic collaboration with Inivata Limited for the commercialization of its InVisionFirst-Lung liquid biopsy test in the United States. NeoGenomics, Inc. was founded in 2001 and is headquartered in Fort Myers, Florida.
GH Research PLC is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to transforming the treatment of psychiatric and neurological disorders. The company is focused on developing novel and proprietary Mebufotenin 5-Methoxy-N, N-Dimethyltryptamine, or 5-MeO-DMT, therapies for the treatment of patients with Treatment-Resistant Depression, or TRD.
Pyxis Oncology, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing antibody therapeutics that enhance the immune response against cancer. Founded in 2018 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, the company specializes in analyzing tumor antigen-specific tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes within hot tumors and tumor cell signaling pathways in cold tumors. This research informs the creation of novel antibody-based immunotherapies aimed at targeting difficult-to-treat cancers. Pyxis Oncology's goal is to develop next-generation therapeutics that not only kill tumor cells but also address the underlying issues that facilitate cancer's proliferation and immune evasion, ultimately improving the quality of life for patients.
UroGen Pharma Ltd., a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company, focuses on developing solutions for specialty cancers and urologic diseases. The company’s lead product candidates are UGN-101 and UGN-102, which are designed to ablate tumors by non-surgical means and to treat several forms of non-muscle invasive urothelial cancer that include low-grade upper tract urothelial carcinoma and low-grade non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. It is also developing UGN-201, a proprietary immunotherapy product candidate for the treatment of high-grade non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. The company has a license agreement with Allergan Pharmaceuticals International Limited for developing and commercializing pharmaceutical products that contain RTGel and clostridial toxins; and Agenus Inc. to develop, make, use, sell, import, and commercialize products of Agenus for the treatment of cancers of the urinary tract via intravesical delivery. UroGen Pharma Ltd. was founded in 2004 and is based in Princeton, New Jersey.
Monte Rosa Therapeutics is a biotechnology company based in Basel, Switzerland, that specializes in developing innovative cancer therapeutics through the modulation of protein degradation pathways. The company focuses on molecular glue degraders (MGDs), a class of small molecule drugs that utilize the body's natural mechanisms for protein degradation to selectively target and degrade proteins relevant to cancer treatment. Monte Rosa employs its QuEEN platform, which integrates artificial intelligence and proprietary experimental tools, to identify and develop target proteins for degradation. With a library of over 50,000 MGD molecules, its leading product candidate, MRT-2359, specifically targets the translation termination factor protein GSPT1, showing potential for treating MYC-driven tumors. The company is committed to advancing its pipeline of novel therapeutics to address unmet medical needs in oncology.
Ventyx Biosciences, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Encinitas, California, focused on developing selective inhibitors of TYK2 for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Incorporated in 2018, the company boasts a diverse portfolio of innovative clinical and pre-clinical programs aimed at high-value therapeutic targets. Through its research and development efforts, Ventyx is committed to advancing treatments that address unmet medical needs in the autoimmune disease space.
Visus Therapeutics is a clinical-stage company focused on developing innovative ophthalmic therapies aimed at enhancing vision for individuals globally. The company is known for its presbyopia-correcting eye drops, which are designed to provide temporary relief from the loss of near vision associated with presbyopia. Additionally, Visus Therapeutics is engaged in the development of various ophthalmic product candidates targeting conditions such as ocular surface disease, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. Through its research and product offerings, the company seeks to address significant unmet needs in vision care.
Tenaya Therapeutics is a biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California, focused on developing innovative therapies for heart disease, particularly heart failure. Established in 2016, the company employs three main platforms to address the underlying causes of heart disease: a cellular regeneration platform that reprograms cardiac fibroblasts into cardiomyocytes using proprietary transcription factors, a gene therapy platform for targeted delivery of therapeutic payloads, and a precision medicine approach tailored to individual patients. Through these platforms, Tenaya Therapeutics aims to enable the regeneration of heart tissue and tackle various forms of cardiomyopathies, leveraging advanced research in cardiac development and regeneration.
Artiva Biotherapeutics, Inc., a biotech company, develops and manufactures cellular immunotherapies for cancer patients. The company offers a pipeline of off-the-shelf, allogeneic natural killer (NK) cell therapies for the treatment of hematologic cancers or solid tumors. The company’s products target CD20 and CD19 in B-cell lymphomas and HER2 in various solid tumors. The company was founded in 2019 and is headquartered in San Diego, California. Artiva Biotherapeutics, Inc. operates as a subsidiary of Green Cross Holdings Corporation.
Biomea Fusion is a preclinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to advancing precision medicine for cancer treatment. The company's focus is on the discovery and development of irreversible small molecule drugs that target specific genetic alterations associated with tumor growth. Its lead product candidate, BMF-219, is designed as a potent and selective irreversible inhibitor of menin, a key transcriptional regulator involved in oncogenic signaling across various cancers. Biomea Fusion aims to expedite the development of these innovative therapies to provide highly effective treatment options for patients with genetically defined cancers.
NUANCE BIOTECH INC operates as a pharmaceutical development company. The company provides capsules, injections, and tubes. It also engages in research and development for drug development, commercial and academic platform for pharmaceuticals, and contract sales organization services. The company was founded in 2014 and is based in Shanghai, China.
Private Equity Round in 2020
Prometheus Biosciences, formerly known as Prometheus Laboratories, is a biotechnology company focused on developing and commercializing innovative pharmaceutical and diagnostic products, primarily for gastrointestinal diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Based in San Diego, California, the company offers a range of diagnostic tests, including Anser IFX, Anser ADA, and IBD sgi Diagnostic, which enable healthcare providers to monitor treatment and optimize patient care. Prometheus also markets therapeutic agents, such as Entocort EC and Imuran, for managing conditions like Crohn's disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, it provides genetic and serologic testing for celiac disease and lactose intolerance, among other disorders. With a commitment to precision medicine, Prometheus aims to enhance individualized patient care through its advanced diagnostic capabilities and therapeutic solutions. The company was founded in 1995 and operates as a subsidiary of Precision IBD, Inc.
NiKang Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company established in 2017 and located in Wilmington, Delaware. The company is dedicated to discovering and developing innovative small molecule oncology medicines aimed at addressing unmet medical needs in cancer treatment. By employing a discovery approach that leverages target structure biology and structure-based drug design, NiKang Therapeutics aims to facilitate the rapid and efficient development of proprietary drug candidates with optimal pharmacological properties. The company seeks to enhance the treatment options available to healthcare providers, ultimately improving patient outcomes in the fight against cancer.
Encoded Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing precision gene therapies for severe genetic disorders. The company's innovative platform identifies sequences within the human genome that regulate gene expression through advanced screening and computational methods. Its therapy pipeline targets a variety of genetic and acquired disorders across multiple disease pathways, including neurocircuitry, liver and metabolic disorders, neurodegeneration, and cardiovascular diseases. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in South San Francisco, California, Encoded Therapeutics aims to enhance treatment options available to medical practitioners, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
Frequency Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Woburn, Massachusetts, dedicated to leveraging the body's natural biology to repair or reverse damage from various degenerative diseases. The company employs a unique Progenitor Cell Activation approach, utilizing combinations of small molecules to stimulate progenitor cells to regenerate functional tissue. Its lead product candidate, FX-322, is currently undergoing phase 2a clinical trials aimed at addressing the underlying causes of sensorineural hearing loss. In addition to hearing loss, Frequency Therapeutics is developing therapies for a variety of degenerative conditions, including multiple sclerosis and ailments affecting muscle, skin, gastrointestinal tract, and bone health. The company has also established a collaboration agreement with Astellas Pharma for the development and commercialization of FX-322. Founded in 2014, Frequency Therapeutics is focused on disease modification through innovative therapeutic strategies.
Unum Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing immunotherapy products for cancer treatment, utilizing proprietary T-cell engineering technology. The company’s lead programs, based on its Antibody-Coupled T-cell Receptor (ACTR) technology, are in Phase I clinical trials. These include ACTR707 and ACTR087, both being tested in combination with rituximab for relapsed or refractory CD20+ non-Hodgkin lymphoma, as well as ACTR087 combined with SEA-BCMA for relapsed multiple myeloma. Additionally, ACTR707 is being evaluated with trastuzumab for HER2+ solid tumors. Unum Therapeutics is also exploring BOXR1030, a pre-clinical candidate targeting glypican-3 to enhance T cell functionality in the solid tumor microenvironment. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Unum aims to activate the body’s immune system to effectively combat cancer through its innovative therapies.
C4 is building on the knowledge with synthetic chemical compounds which it calls Degronimids. These compounds can be engineered and linked together to bind with many molecular targets that today’s drugs can’t bind with, Cohen said. The key insight, he said, is that the scientific founders have discovered a way to bind with select disease-causing proteins, and flag them as cellular trash, so that the ordinary proteasome garbage disposal system can get rid of them. Selecting the precise disease-related proteins to send to the trash is obviously critical, because any drug like this could cause serious side effects if it sent healthy proteins involved in normal cell processes to the trash. C4 Therapeutics is developing a new class of targeted protein degradation (TPD) therapeutics for the treatment of a broad range of diseases. Our Degronimid™ platform incorporates highly selective small molecule binders to target disease-causing proteins and facilitate their rapid destruction and clearance from the cell through the natural ubiquitin/proteasome system (UPS). Because of this distinctive mechanism, Degronimids are capable of hitting many more targets, including those previously thought to be undruggable, while reducing the potential for drug resistance. The broad applicability of Degronimids, and our chemical biology platform designed for accelerated validation, have the potential to make an unprecedented impact across many diseases through multiple industry collaborations as well as proprietary programs. The Company has received an exclusive worldwide license to the Degronimid platform and related IP from Dana-Farber.
Athira Pharma is a clinical-stage drug development company striving to improve human health by advancing bold and innovative therapies with the potential to restore the lives of people impacted by brain disorders. Athira is derived from the word Athir, the energy that reaches everyone. It captures its mission to develop therapies that can reach and positively impact everyone.
ITeos Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing immuno-oncology therapeutics for cancer treatment. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Gosselies, Belgium, with operational ties to Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company leverages its expertise in tumor immunology to create small molecule immunomodulators. Its product pipeline includes EOS-850, an antagonist of the adenosine A2a receptor, currently in an open-label Phase 1/2a clinical trial for adult patients, and EOS-448, which targets the TIGIT receptor and is also in a Phase 1/2a clinical trial. ITeos aims to enhance the effectiveness of cancer therapies by targeting resistance mechanisms within the tumor microenvironment, thereby improving the clinical outcomes of existing treatment modalities and newer immunotherapies.
Immunocore Limited is a biotechnology company specializing in the discovery and development of innovative T cell receptor-based therapeutics aimed at treating cancer, viral diseases, and autoimmune disorders. Founded in 1999 and headquartered in Abingdon, United Kingdom, with an additional office in Conshohocken, the company has developed a proprietary technology platform that enables the engineering of T cell receptors (TCRs) linked to antibody fragments. This expertise has led to the advancement of IMCgp100, a bi-specific immunotherapeutic currently undergoing clinical trials for metastatic melanoma. Immunocore's focus on addressing diseases with significant unmet medical needs underscores its commitment to advancing novel treatment options.
Immunocore Limited is a biotechnology company specializing in the discovery and development of innovative T cell receptor-based therapeutics aimed at treating cancer, viral diseases, and autoimmune disorders. Founded in 1999 and headquartered in Abingdon, United Kingdom, with an additional office in Conshohocken, the company has developed a proprietary technology platform that enables the engineering of T cell receptors (TCRs) linked to antibody fragments. This expertise has led to the advancement of IMCgp100, a bi-specific immunotherapeutic currently undergoing clinical trials for metastatic melanoma. Immunocore's focus on addressing diseases with significant unmet medical needs underscores its commitment to advancing novel treatment options.
Avidity Biosciences is a biopharmaceutical company specializing in the development of oligonucleotide-based therapies known as antibody oligonucleotide conjugates (AOCs). These therapies aim to address the limitations of traditional oligonucleotide treatments by combining the tissue selectivity of monoclonal antibodies with the precision of oligonucleotide therapies. Avidity's lead product candidate, AOC 1001, targets myotonic dystrophy type 1, a rare genetic muscle disorder. The company's development pipeline also includes programs focused on treating various muscle diseases, such as muscle atrophy, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy, and Pompe disease. Additionally, Avidity is exploring therapeutic applications for immune and other cell types, leveraging its proprietary AOC platform to reach previously undruggable tissues and effectively target the genetic underpinnings of these conditions. Founded in 2012, Avidity Biosciences is headquartered in La Jolla, California.
Landos Biopharma, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Blacksburg, Virginia, specializing in the development of oral therapeutics for autoimmune diseases. Founded in 2017, the company focuses on innovative treatments for conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis. Its lead product candidate, NX-13, is a novel, gut-selective agonist targeting the NLRX1 pathway. The company also has a diverse pipeline that includes other internally discovered compounds aimed at novel immunometabolic pathways. By developing first-in-class therapeutics, Landos Biopharma seeks to provide effective treatment options for patients suffering from autoimmune conditions.
Frequency Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Woburn, Massachusetts, dedicated to leveraging the body's natural biology to repair or reverse damage from various degenerative diseases. The company employs a unique Progenitor Cell Activation approach, utilizing combinations of small molecules to stimulate progenitor cells to regenerate functional tissue. Its lead product candidate, FX-322, is currently undergoing phase 2a clinical trials aimed at addressing the underlying causes of sensorineural hearing loss. In addition to hearing loss, Frequency Therapeutics is developing therapies for a variety of degenerative conditions, including multiple sclerosis and ailments affecting muscle, skin, gastrointestinal tract, and bone health. The company has also established a collaboration agreement with Astellas Pharma for the development and commercialization of FX-322. Founded in 2014, Frequency Therapeutics is focused on disease modification through innovative therapeutic strategies.
Beta Bionics is a biotechnology company based in Boston, Massachusetts, focused on advancing diabetes care through its innovative bionic pancreas system, known as the iLet. Founded in 2015, the company has developed a dual-chamber infusion pump that precisely delivers insulin and glucagon, allowing for autonomous management of blood sugar levels. The iLet has received breakthrough designation for its various configurations, including insulin-only, glucagon-only, and bihormonal uses, particularly in conjunction with Zealand Pharma’s dasiglucagon, a stable glucagon analog in a ready-to-use solution. By reducing the burden and cost associated with diabetes management, Beta Bionics aims to improve the quality of life for individuals living with diabetes.
Encoded Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing precision gene therapies for severe genetic disorders. The company's innovative platform identifies sequences within the human genome that regulate gene expression through advanced screening and computational methods. Its therapy pipeline targets a variety of genetic and acquired disorders across multiple disease pathways, including neurocircuitry, liver and metabolic disorders, neurodegeneration, and cardiovascular diseases. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in South San Francisco, California, Encoded Therapeutics aims to enhance treatment options available to medical practitioners, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
Pulmonx Corporation is a medical technology company focused on developing minimally invasive devices for diagnosing and treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), particularly severe emphysema. The company offers key products including the Zephyr Endobronchial Valve, which addresses hyperinflation in adult patients, and the Chartis Pulmonary Assessment System, a tool that evaluates collateral ventilation through flow and pressure measurements. Additionally, Pulmonx provides the StratX Lung Analysis Platform, a cloud-based service that utilizes computed tomography to analyze lung conditions, aiding in the identification of treatment targets for the Zephyr Valve. With a strong clinical foundation supported by numerous published studies, Pulmonx has received regulatory recognition, including FDA approval for its Zephyr Valve, which is now used by physicians in over 25 countries. The company aims to enhance the quality of life for emphysema patients worldwide, having facilitated the treatment of more than 19,000 patients with over 76,000 valves deployed. Founded in 1995 and headquartered in Redwood City, California, Pulmonx continues to lead in interventional procedures for COPD treatment.
Orchestra BioMed, Inc. is a biomedical innovation company established in 2017 and located in New Hope, Pennsylvania. The company is dedicated to developing high-impact therapeutic solutions for medical procedures, with a primary focus on addressing cardiovascular diseases, which account for a significant number of global fatalities annually. Orchestra BioMed aims to accelerate the commercialization of its products through strategic partnerships with medical device companies. Its leading product candidates include BackBeat Cardiac Neuromodulation Therapy, designed for hypertension treatment, and Virtue Sirolimus AngioInfusion Balloon, which targets atherosclerotic artery disease. By emphasizing evidence-based solutions, Orchestra BioMed seeks to improve patient outcomes for serious medical conditions.
Magnolia Medical Technologies, Inc. is a Seattle-based company that specializes in the development and manufacturing of medical devices aimed at enhancing the accuracy of diagnostic blood culture tests. Its flagship product, SteriPath, is a vacuum-assisted blood collection system designed to divert contaminants from the initial blood sample, thereby reducing the incidence of blood culture sample contamination. The company markets its products through distributors across the United States and has built a robust intellectual property portfolio, consisting of over 70 issued patents and more than 50 pending applications. Founded in 2011, Magnolia Medical Technologies is committed to improving diagnostic specimen quality and increasing the accuracy of critical laboratory tests.
Attune Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a biotechnology research and development company based in New York, established in 2015. The company specializes in discovering and developing novel orally administered small molecule therapeutics aimed at treating rare diseases. Its focus includes the creation of heterocyclic derivative compounds and pharmaceutical compositions that address conditions such as hereditary angioedema, thereby providing clinicians with effective treatment options for rare medical conditions.
Beta Bionics is a biotechnology company based in Boston, Massachusetts, focused on advancing diabetes care through its innovative bionic pancreas system, known as the iLet. Founded in 2015, the company has developed a dual-chamber infusion pump that precisely delivers insulin and glucagon, allowing for autonomous management of blood sugar levels. The iLet has received breakthrough designation for its various configurations, including insulin-only, glucagon-only, and bihormonal uses, particularly in conjunction with Zealand Pharma’s dasiglucagon, a stable glucagon analog in a ready-to-use solution. By reducing the burden and cost associated with diabetes management, Beta Bionics aims to improve the quality of life for individuals living with diabetes.
Private Equity Round in 2018
Roivant Sciences is a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on enhancing healthcare delivery through innovative drug development. The company aims to reduce the time and cost associated with bringing new medicines to market, sharing those savings with the healthcare system. Roivant achieves this by creating specialized entities known as Vants, which are agile biotech and healthcare technology firms that leverage unique talent sourcing and technology deployment strategies. In addition to its biopharmaceutical subsidiaries, Roivant incubates discovery-stage companies and health technology startups that complement its core business. Among its drug candidates, VTAMA (tapinarof) is designed for the treatment of plaque psoriasis and has reached the commercial stage, while several other candidates, including Batoclimab, IMVT-1402, Brepocitinib, and Namilumab, are in various stages of development.
Milestone Pharmaceuticals Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Montréal, Canada, focused on the development and commercialization of etripamil, a novel calcium channel blocker targeting various cardiovascular conditions. Etripamil is designed as a rapid-onset nasal spray for the self-administration by patients, specifically to terminate episodes of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT). The company is currently advancing etripamil through Phase III clinical trials for PSVT in the United States and Canada, as well as conducting Phase II trials for patients with atrial fibrillation experiencing a rapid ventricular rate. Founded in 2003, Milestone aims to address unmet medical needs in the treatment of transient cardiovascular conditions, including atrial fibrillation and angina.
Stoke Therapeutics, Inc., an early-stage biopharmaceutical company, develops novel antisense oligonucleotide medicines to treat the underlying causes of severe genetic diseases. Its lead product candidate, STK-001 used to treat Dravet syndrome, a severe and progressive genetic epilepsy. Stoke Therapeutics, Inc. has a partnership with Invitae Corporation to offer genetic testing. The company was formerly known as ASOthera Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and changed its name to Stoke Therapeutics, Inc. in May 2016. Stoke Therapeutics, Inc. was founded in 2014 and is headquartered in Bedford, Massachusetts.
Orchard Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company based in London, focused on developing innovative gene therapies for serious and life-threatening rare diseases. Operating in the United Kingdom, European Union, and the United States, Orchard employs an autologous ex vivo gene therapy approach to transform patients’ hematopoietic stem cells into gene-modified products for treatment through a single administration. Its portfolio includes Strimvelis, the first approved gene therapy for adenosine deaminase-severe combined immunodeficiency (ADA-SCID), along with several products in clinical development targeting metachromatic leukodystrophy, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome, X-linked chronic granulomatous disease, and transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemia. The company also has a robust preclinical pipeline addressing various mucopolysaccharidosis types. Orchard collaborates with leading institutions in gene therapy, enhancing its research capabilities and clinical programs. Founded in 2015, Orchard Therapeutics continues to demonstrate a commitment to transforming the lives of patients through its advanced therapies.
Orchard Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company based in London, focused on developing innovative gene therapies for serious and life-threatening rare diseases. Operating in the United Kingdom, European Union, and the United States, Orchard employs an autologous ex vivo gene therapy approach to transform patients’ hematopoietic stem cells into gene-modified products for treatment through a single administration. Its portfolio includes Strimvelis, the first approved gene therapy for adenosine deaminase-severe combined immunodeficiency (ADA-SCID), along with several products in clinical development targeting metachromatic leukodystrophy, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome, X-linked chronic granulomatous disease, and transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemia. The company also has a robust preclinical pipeline addressing various mucopolysaccharidosis types. Orchard collaborates with leading institutions in gene therapy, enhancing its research capabilities and clinical programs. Founded in 2015, Orchard Therapeutics continues to demonstrate a commitment to transforming the lives of patients through its advanced therapies.
ARMO Biosciences is a biotechnology company that develops immune modulatory biologic therapeutics. The company is based in Redwood City, California.
Solid Biosciences Inc. is a life science company focused on developing therapies for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a severe genetic disorder primarily affecting boys. The company's lead candidate, SGT-001, is a gene transfer therapy currently undergoing a Phase I/II clinical trial aimed at restoring functional dystrophin protein expression in muscle tissues. In addition to SGT-001, Solid Biosciences is advancing Anti-LTBP4, a monoclonal antibody designed to mitigate fibrosis and inflammation by targeting the LTBP4 protein. The company also works on developing biomarkers and wearable assistive devices under the Solid Suit program, which aims to provide therapeutic benefits to patients. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Solid Biosciences has established a strategic collaboration with Ultragenyx to further develop and commercialize gene therapies for DMD. The company’s initiatives address a critical need, as there are currently no effective cures or satisfactory treatments for this progressive and life-threatening condition.
Based in Dallas, Texas, AveXis is a clinic-ready, synthetic biology platform company. AveXis has, at its core, a desire to establish unique industry and research alliances which will bring innovative treatments to people with unmet medical needs. Our work in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a rare/orphan disease, is our first focus.
Immunocore Limited is a biotechnology company specializing in the discovery and development of innovative T cell receptor-based therapeutics aimed at treating cancer, viral diseases, and autoimmune disorders. Founded in 1999 and headquartered in Abingdon, United Kingdom, with an additional office in Conshohocken, the company has developed a proprietary technology platform that enables the engineering of T cell receptors (TCRs) linked to antibody fragments. This expertise has led to the advancement of IMCgp100, a bi-specific immunotherapeutic currently undergoing clinical trials for metastatic melanoma. Immunocore's focus on addressing diseases with significant unmet medical needs underscores its commitment to advancing novel treatment options.