Eli Lilly and Company is a global pharmaceutical corporation that specializes in the discovery, development, manufacturing, and distribution of medicines. Its portfolio spans various therapeutic areas, including neuroscience, cardiometabolic, cancer, and immunology. Notable products include Verzenio for cancer, Mounjaro and Jardiance for cardiometabolic conditions, and Taltz for immunology. The company operates through owned or leased facilities in over 25 countries, selling its products in approximately 135 countries worldwide. Additionally, Eli Lilly and Company Foundation, established in 1968, supports initiatives aimed at improving patient outcomes, enhancing quality of life, and promoting education, particularly in underserved communities.
Group Vice President - Molecule Discovery and Director, Lilly Institutes of Genetic Medicine
Anat Ashkenazi
CFO
Gordon Brooks
Group Vice President - Controller and Corporate Strategy
Lotus Mallbris Ph.D
Vice President of Development and Immunology
Teresa Millan
Corporate Affairs Director
Jacob Van Naarden
President
Diogo Rau
Executive Vice President and Chief Information and Digital Officer
Melissa Seymour
Executive VP of Global Quality
Past deals in Therapeutics
Grove Biopharma
Series A in 2025
Grove Biopharma is a biotechnology company dedicated to addressing unmet medical needs in oncology, chronic inflammatory, and neurodegenerative diseases. It specializes in the discovery and development of a new class of protein-like polymers, utilizing artificial intelligence and precision polymer chemistry to create hybrid synthetic protein mimetics. The company also provides materials science solutions to tackle challenges associated with peptide therapeutics, thereby facilitating researchers' access to innovative drugs in critical areas of healthcare.
Solu Therapeutics
Series A in 2025
Solu Therapeutics is a precision medicine company dedicated to developing innovative therapeutics aimed at eliminating cells responsible for driving diseases. Utilizing a unique cytotoxicity-targeting chimera platform, Solu Therapeutics focuses on oncology and also addresses inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. By targeting these disease-driving cells, the company's approach seeks to assist medical professionals in reducing the risks associated with various oncological conditions, ultimately improving patient outcomes and advancing therapeutic options in the healthcare sector.
Augustine Therapeutics
Series A in 2025
Augustine Therapeutics N.V., founded in 2019 and based in Gent, Belgium, focuses on developing innovative medicines for patients suffering from Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and other neuromuscular disorders. The company is engaged in two drug discovery programs aimed at identifying new generations of selective HDAC6 inhibitors, which are designed to address axonopathies, including Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. These novel compounds are intended to protect against nerve degeneration and facilitate the repair of peripheral myelin and axons. By advancing these therapeutic drugs, Augustine Therapeutics aims to enhance the quality of life for patients affected by these debilitating conditions.
Ampersand Biomedicines
Series B in 2025
Ampersand Biomedicines is a biopharmaceutical company that focuses on developing innovative programming therapeutics aimed at targeting diseases directly at their site of occurrence. The company employs its Address, Navigate, Design (AND)™ Platform to create localized treatments that enhance precision in disease management. By integrating a localizing element with a carefully selected actuator for disease modification, Ampersand Biomedicines enables researchers to address a broad spectrum of diseases across various body systems. This approach allows for a tailored therapeutic response, potentially improving the efficacy of treatments and advancing the field of precision medicine.
Maxion Therapeutics
Series A in 2025
Maxion Therapeutics specializes in developing innovative therapies through its drug discovery platform, which focuses on creating antibody-like therapeutics targeting ion channel and GPCR-driven diseases. The company utilizes unique ion channel-modulating mini-proteins, known as knottins, derived from venom and other sources, integrating them with antibody frameworks. This approach preserves the functional properties of knottins while enhancing the drug-like characteristics typical of antibodies. By doing so, Maxion Therapeutics aims to provide long-acting, safe, and effective treatments for conditions such as chronic pain, autoimmune disorders, and heart disease, addressing previously inaccessible therapeutic targets.
TRIMTECH Therapeutics
Seed Round in 2025
TRIMTECH Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on developing targeted protein degradation therapies to treat neurodegenerative diseases. Their innovative platform aims to degrade toxic protein aggregates, offering oral therapeutics with high specificity, a strong safety profile, and potential for personalized treatments. This approach has the potential to provide effective and safe therapies for neurological, inflammatory, and oncological conditions.
Scorpion Therapeutics
Acquisition in 2025
Scorpion Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Boston, Massachusetts, focused on developing next-generation precision oncology technologies for cancer treatment. Founded in 2020, the company specializes in creating targeted small-molecule drugs that interact with validated cancer targets. Its research encompasses therapies aimed at known oncogenes, previously undruggable cancer targets, and novel targets. By integrating technologies across target discovery, medicinal chemistry, and translational medicine, Scorpion Therapeutics aims to advance a comprehensive pipeline of optimized compounds. The company's goal is to expand the reach of precision medicine, enabling healthcare professionals to offer innovative treatments to a broader range of cancer patients.
Orbis Medicines
Series A in 2025
Orbis Medicines is a company focused on drug discovery, utilizing a unique macrocyclic chemistry and computational platform to develop new therapeutics. By employing high-throughput techniques, Orbis aims to accelerate the drug discovery process, particularly for challenging targets that address significant unmet medical needs. Their innovative approach is designed to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of developing treatments, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
TRex Bio
Series B in 2024
TRexBio is a biotechnology company that leverages cutting-edge computational biology tools, a focus on human tissue, and expertise in immunobiology to develop therapeutics for cancer and inflammatory diseases. Its 'deep biology' discovery engine maps human tissue Treg behavior to disease processes, identifying and characterizing novel targets for therapeutic intervention. The platform supports the development of a portfolio of therapies that modulate the immune system to restore tissue immune homeostasis.
ProQR Therapeutics
Post in 2024
ProQR Therapeutics N.V. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Leiden, the Netherlands, focused on the discovery and development of RNA-based therapeutics for genetic disorders. The company is advancing several product candidates, including sepofarsen, which is in phase II/III clinical trials for Leber's congenital amaurosis 10, and QR-421a, currently in phase 1/2 trials for Usher syndrome type 2 and non-syndromic retinitis pigmentosa. Additionally, QR-1123 is in phase 1/2 trials for autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa, while QR-504a has commenced its first clinical trial for Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy. ProQR has established collaborations with leading medical and research institutions, including General Hospital Corporation and Radboud University Medical Center. Founded in 2012, the company is dedicated to developing innovative treatments for patients with severe genetic rare diseases.
Arda Therapeutics
Series A in 2024
Arda Therapeutics is a biotechnology company founded in 2021 in the San Francisco Bay Area that focuses on addressing chronic diseases and aging by targeting and eliminating pathogenic cells responsible for these conditions. The company utilizes single-cell data to identify specific pathogenic cells and their markers, allowing for the development of precise therapies that exclusively eliminate these harmful cells. This targeted approach aims to eradicate the entire pathological network while preserving healthy cells, thereby enabling effective treatment without adverse effects on the patient's overall cellular health.
Aktis Oncology
Series B in 2024
Aktis Oncology is a biotechnology company focused on developing targeted radiopharmaceuticals for the treatment of various solid tumor cancers. The company has created proprietary platforms that generate tumor-targeting agents optimized for alpha radiotherapy. These agents are engineered to achieve high penetration into tumors and prolonged residence time, allowing for effective tumor elimination while reducing side effects associated with treatment. Additionally, Aktis Oncology's innovative approach enables clinicians to visualize and confirm target engagement before administering therapeutic radioisotopes, enhancing the precision of cancer treatment.
NanoSyrinx
Series A in 2024
NanoSyrinx is a biotechnology company focused on developing an innovative system for the targeted delivery of therapeutic proteins and peptides directly into the cytosol of cells. By employing synthetic biology techniques, the company aims to create a groundbreaking method for drug delivery that enhances the efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of treatments in the biopharmaceutical sector. This novel approach allows for precise delivery of therapeutic agents, potentially improving treatment outcomes for patients by ensuring that the drugs reach their intended cellular targets.
Superluminal Medicines
Series A in 2024
Superluminal Medicines is a biotechnology company specializing in generative biology and chemistry. It employs a unique platform that combines deep biological and chemical expertise, machine learning, and proprietary big data infrastructure to rapidly generate candidate-ready compounds for drug discovery and development. By integrating high-throughput experimental data with advanced algorithms, the company aims to accelerate the identification and optimization of novel drug candidates, improving efficiency and success rates in small molecule drug development compared to traditional methods.
OrsoBio
Series B in 2024
OrsoBio is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing therapies for severe metabolic disorders, including obesity and related conditions such as type 2 diabetes and severe dyslipidemia. The company aims to restore energy homeostasis in patients by targeting pathways that maintain energy balance, thereby addressing the underlying causes of these disorders. OrsoBio's commitment to innovation seeks to revolutionize treatment options for individuals suffering from metabolic dysfunctions, including lipodystrophies and other obesity-associated complications. Through its research and development efforts, OrsoBio strives to enhance patients' energy metabolism and improve their overall health outcomes.
HAYA Therapeutics
Funding Round in 2024
HAYA Therapeutics is focused on developing RNA-based therapeutics aimed at treating heart failure and other fibrotic diseases. The company's innovative approach involves targeting a heart-specific regulator of fibrosis, specifically a long noncoding RNA, to block myocardial fibrosis. This biopharmaceutical therapy aims to improve the efficacy and safety of treatment for heart-related illnesses and other serious health conditions associated with aging, including cancer. By concentrating on tissue and cell-selective genomic medicines, HAYA Therapeutics seeks to provide more precise and effective therapeutic options for patients suffering from these conditions.
Circle Pharma
Series D in 2024
Circle Pharma, Inc. is an early-stage biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California, founded in 2012 by Matt Jacobson and Scott Lokey. The company focuses on developing cell-permeable macrocyclic peptide therapeutics by employing proprietary computational design algorithms and innovative synthetic chemistry. Circle Pharma utilizes an iterative design process that leverages large virtual libraries of conformationally diverse macrocycle scaffolds, which are selected for their inherent permeability. This approach allows the company to create first-in-class macrocycle therapies that can be administered through multiple routes, including oral delivery. The therapeutics target challenging clinical issues, particularly intracellular protein-protein interactions that are significant contributors to cancer, thereby addressing unmet medical needs and enhancing the capabilities of healthcare professionals in their treatment efforts.
Artax Biopharma
Convertible Note in 2024
Artax Biopharma Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing therapies for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Founded in 2013 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company specializes in small-molecule drugs that act as immunomodulators. Its lead compound, AX-024, specifically targets Nck, disrupting the interaction that activates T-cells, thereby preventing harmful responses against antigens while maintaining the immune system's ability to combat infections. Artax Biopharma's research encompasses a range of conditions, including asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, graft versus host disease, and multiple sclerosis. By aiming to treat both symptoms and underlying disease mechanisms, the company's therapies are designed to minimize side effects associated with traditional treatments.
RetiSpec
Series A in 2024
RetiSpec is focused on creating a non-invasive eye scanner designed for the early detection of Alzheimer's Disease pathology, potentially years before symptoms manifest. By employing AI-driven retinal imaging technology, RetiSpec's approach allows for a straightforward eye exam that identifies markers of neurodegenerative diseases. This innovation aims to provide healthcare providers with a means to deliver accessible, affordable, and scalable early diagnosis, facilitating timely interventions with emerging therapeutics that can significantly impact the progression of the disease.
Circle Pharma
Series D in 2024
Circle Pharma, Inc. is an early-stage biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California, founded in 2012 by Matt Jacobson and Scott Lokey. The company focuses on developing cell-permeable macrocyclic peptide therapeutics by employing proprietary computational design algorithms and innovative synthetic chemistry. Circle Pharma utilizes an iterative design process that leverages large virtual libraries of conformationally diverse macrocycle scaffolds, which are selected for their inherent permeability. This approach allows the company to create first-in-class macrocycle therapies that can be administered through multiple routes, including oral delivery. The therapeutics target challenging clinical issues, particularly intracellular protein-protein interactions that are significant contributors to cancer, thereby addressing unmet medical needs and enhancing the capabilities of healthcare professionals in their treatment efforts.
Augustine Therapeutics
Series A in 2024
Augustine Therapeutics N.V., founded in 2019 and based in Gent, Belgium, focuses on developing innovative medicines for patients suffering from Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and other neuromuscular disorders. The company is engaged in two drug discovery programs aimed at identifying new generations of selective HDAC6 inhibitors, which are designed to address axonopathies, including Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. These novel compounds are intended to protect against nerve degeneration and facilitate the repair of peripheral myelin and axons. By advancing these therapeutic drugs, Augustine Therapeutics aims to enhance the quality of life for patients affected by these debilitating conditions.
Radar Therapeutics
Seed Round in 2024
Radar Therapeutics specializes in developing innovative, mRNA-based therapeutics that target and treat diseases by recognizing and responding to specific transcriptional signatures in pathogenic cells. Their proprietary technology enables precise, programmable therapies, expanding treatment possibilities to previously undruggable targets.
Aktis Oncology
Corporate Round in 2024
Aktis Oncology is a biotechnology company focused on developing targeted radiopharmaceuticals for the treatment of various solid tumor cancers. The company has created proprietary platforms that generate tumor-targeting agents optimized for alpha radiotherapy. These agents are engineered to achieve high penetration into tumors and prolonged residence time, allowing for effective tumor elimination while reducing side effects associated with treatment. Additionally, Aktis Oncology's innovative approach enables clinicians to visualize and confirm target engagement before administering therapeutic radioisotopes, enhancing the precision of cancer treatment.
Lycia Therapeutics
Series C in 2024
Lycia Therapeutics is a biotechnology firm focused on discovering and developing first-in-class therapies. The company utilizes its innovative lysosomal targeting chimeras (LYTACs) platform to create therapeutics that target and degrade extracellular and membrane-bound proteins associated with challenging diseases, including cancer and autoimmune disorders. By addressing these difficult-to-treat conditions, Lycia Therapeutics aims to provide medical practitioners with effective treatment options to improve patient outcomes.
Ajax Therapeutics
Series C in 2024
Ajax Therapeutics is a biotechnology company based in New York City that focuses on developing innovative small molecule therapies for hematologic malignancies. The company utilizes computational chemistry and structure-based technologies to create targeted treatments that address critical cytokine signaling pathways involved in these diseases. By integrating insights from disease mechanisms, genetics, and structural biology with an advanced computational drug discovery platform, Ajax Therapeutics aims to design precise therapeutics that meet significant unmet medical needs for patients suffering from hematologic malignancies.
Prism BioLab
Series C in 2024
Prism BioLab is focused on drug discovery and development, utilizing its proprietary PepMetics Technology to create therapeutic agents. The company specializes in treatments for non-oncology indications, particularly targeting conditions such as pulmonary fibrosis and other incurable diseases. By leveraging its innovative platform, Prism BioLab aims to provide effective solutions for these challenging health issues.
Point Biopharma Global
Acquisition in 2023
Point Biopharma Global Inc., established in 2019 and headquartered in Toronto, Canada, specializes in the development and commercialization of radioligand therapies for cancer treatment. The company leverages a portfolio of advanced radiopharmaceutical assets, expertise in radioisotopes like Actinium-225 and Lutetium-177, and innovative manufacturing technology. Point Biopharma Global's pipeline includes several promising candidates, such as PNT2002, PNT2004, PNT2003, and PNT2001, aiming to revolutionize theragnostic drug development and radioligand commercialization.
Alto Neuroscience
Series C in 2023
Alto Neuroscience is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on improving mental health treatment through personalized medicine. By utilizing an AI-enabled biomarker platform, Alto integrates detailed patient data regarding brain activity and behavior to develop effective therapeutics for specific populations. The company aims to transform the traditional trial-and-error approach in psychiatry by matching the appropriate treatment to individual patients, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of interventions. Alto's clinical-stage assets include various products targeting conditions such as depressive disorders and schizophrenia, identified through independent brain-based biomarkers. Through its innovative approach, Alto Neuroscience seeks to redefine psychiatric care at a critical time for mental health.
ViaNautis
Series A in 2023
ViaNautis is focused on creating innovative medications that can effectively cross biological barriers, particularly the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The company utilizes PolyNaut, a versatile nano-engineered polymer technology, to enhance intracellular delivery of therapeutics. Through the development of nanoparticle technology, ViaNautis encapsulates various therapeutic modalities within polymer nanovesicles, allowing for selective targeting of different tissues and cell types. This approach significantly improves the therapeutic efficacy of the delivered molecules, enabling clients to achieve better treatment outcomes. With partners like SomaServe, ViaNautis is paving the way for advanced medications that offer substantial therapeutic benefits by overcoming various biological barriers.
OrsoBio
Series A in 2023
OrsoBio is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing therapies for severe metabolic disorders, including obesity and related conditions such as type 2 diabetes and severe dyslipidemia. The company aims to restore energy homeostasis in patients by targeting pathways that maintain energy balance, thereby addressing the underlying causes of these disorders. OrsoBio's commitment to innovation seeks to revolutionize treatment options for individuals suffering from metabolic dysfunctions, including lipodystrophies and other obesity-associated complications. Through its research and development efforts, OrsoBio strives to enhance patients' energy metabolism and improve their overall health outcomes.
Laverock Therapeutics
Seed Round in 2023
Laverock Therapeutics is focused on advancing gene silencing technology to create innovative programmable cell therapies. Their platform enables the engineering of next-generation allogeneic cell therapies that can adapt to both internal and external environmental signals. This capability allows for the development of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived products that offer enhanced efficacy, safety, and accessibility, addressing many of the challenges faced by traditional therapeutic methods. Through its pioneering approach, Laverock Therapeutics aims to facilitate significant advancements in the fields of medicine and biotechnology.
Sitryx Therapeutics
Series A in 2023
Sitryx Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company founded in 2018 and headquartered in Oxford, United Kingdom. The company focuses on developing innovative disease-modifying therapeutics in the fields of immuno-oncology and immuno-inflammation by regulating cell metabolism. Sitryx aims to enhance immune cell functions to inhibit tumor growth and improve immune responses. Co-founded by leading scientists from the United States and Europe, the company has attracted significant investment, including $30 million in Series A funding from a consortium of specialist investors. Sitryx has established a diverse pipeline of projects at various stages of drug discovery, positioning itself at the forefront of immunometabolism research.
Mariana Oncology
Series B in 2023
Mariana Oncology is a biotechnology company focused on developing radiopharmaceuticals designed to target cancer cells using radioactive drugs. The company leverages expertise in ligand discovery, radiochemistry, and radiobiology, along with oncology translational and clinical research, to create a diverse pipeline aimed at treating various solid tumor types. By advancing the use of radiomedicines, Mariana Oncology seeks to enhance treatment options for medical professionals in their fight against cancer.
Versanis Bio
Acquisition in 2023
Versanis Bio is focused on discovering and developing medicines that target medical conditions commonly found in older adults. The company is advancing Bimagrumab, a human monoclonal antibody that inhibits activin type II receptors, blocking the action of ligands such as activin A and myostatin. Previous studies conducted by Novartis involved over 1,500 participants and demonstrated that Bimagrumab consistently induced significant fat loss while preserving lean mass. Additionally, the treatment has shown improvements in HbA1c levels and other cardiometabolic parameters, offering a promising option for overweight and obese adults aiming to achieve and maintain a healthier body composition.
Crossbow Therapeutics
Series A in 2023
Crossbow Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative cancer treatments. The company engineers antibodies that mimic T-cells, which are essential components of the immune system, to target cancer cells with high precision. This next-generation approach allows for the assembly of immunotherapies that can reach previously inaccessible cancer cell targets, significantly broadening the scope of antibody therapy. By utilizing T-cell receptor (TCR)-mimetic antibodies, Crossbow Therapeutics aims to enhance the quality of life for cancer patients and unlock new therapeutic potentials across various types of cancer.
Emergence Therapeutics
Acquisition in 2023
Emergence Therapeutics AG is a biopharmaceutical company based in Duisburg, Germany, focused on developing novel antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) immuno-therapeutics for high-need cancers. Founded in 2019, the company is advancing its lead program, which combines a highly specific antibody with optimized linker and payload technology to target Nectin-4, a clinically validated target for various cancers. This approach is inspired by the success of enfortumab vedotin, an approved treatment for urothelial cancers. Emergence Therapeutics is also exploring opportunities to create additional first- or best-in-class ADCs, aiming to address significant therapeutic needs in oncology.
DICE Therapeutics
Acquisition in 2023
DICE Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company that utilizes its proprietary technology platform to develop a pipeline of novel oral therapeutic candidates aimed at treating chronic diseases, particularly in the field of immunology. The company focuses on creating oral therapeutics that target well-established proteins, intending to achieve efficacy similar to existing systemic biologics. DICE's DELSCAPE platform is specifically designed to discover selective oral small molecules capable of modulating protein-protein interactions effectively. Its lead candidate, S011806, is an oral antagonist targeting interleukin-17, a key player in various immunological conditions. In addition to S011806, DICE is developing other oral therapeutic candidates that target α4ß7 integrin and αVß1/αVß6 integrin, aimed at treating inflammatory bowel disease and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, respectively.
Verve Therapeutics
Post in 2023
Verve Therapeutics, Inc. is a genetic medicines company focused on innovative treatments for cardiovascular disease through gene editing. Founded in 2018 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with a research facility in Philadelphia, the company aims to shift the management of cardiovascular conditions from chronic treatments to single-course gene editing therapies. Its initial programs concentrate on the PCSK9 and ANGPTL3 genes, which are known to significantly impact blood lipid levels, a major factor in cardiovascular disease. Verve Therapeutics collaborates with partners such as Beam Therapeutics and Verily to enhance its gene editing delivery technologies. The company is staffed by a team of experts in cardiovascular medicine, human genetics, and drug development, positioning itself to address the challenges of cardiovascular health effectively.
Diogenx
Series A in 2023
DiogenX is a preclinical stage biotech company based in Marseille, France, with research labs in Nice. Founded in 2019, the company specializes in developing therapeutic solutions for diabetic patients, focusing on pancreatic beta-cell modulators for the treatment of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. DiogenX aims to create a candidate molecule that regenerates insulin-producing pancreatic cells, potentially improving the quality of life and survival rates for individuals with diabetes. The innovative therapy is based on research conducted in the laboratory of Dr. Patrick Collombat, which positions DiogenX as a pioneer in the development of beta-cell regeneration treatments for diabetes.
Therini Bio
Series A in 2023
Therini Bio is a biotechnology company focused on developing fibrin-targeting therapies aimed at treating inflammatory neurological and retinal diseases. The company leverages insights from research that highlights the role of fibrin in driving chronic innate immune activation, which is implicated in various human diseases with significant unmet medical needs. Currently, Therini Bio is working on therapeutics that aim to protect the nervous system from damage associated with conditions such as multiple sclerosis. By developing specialized antibodies for neuroinflammatory diseases linked to vascular dysfunction, the company seeks to provide healthcare providers with effective treatment options that can improve patient outcomes.
Mediar Therapeutics
Series A in 2023
Mediar Therapeutics is a pre-clinical stage biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on developing antibody-based therapeutics for the treatment of fibrosis. Founded in 2019, the company aims to provide innovative solutions by targeting key fibrotic mediator proteins that contribute to the development of fibrosis in chronically damaged organs. Through its research and development efforts, Mediar seeks to enable medical practitioners to halt and potentially reverse critical fibrosis and related conditions, addressing a significant unmet need in the field of fibrotic diseases.
Switch Therapeutics
Series A in 2023
Switch Therapeutics is a biotechnology company established in 2020 and located in San Francisco, California. The company focuses on developing innovative RNA interference (RNAi) therapies aimed at transforming the treatment of various diseases, particularly those affecting the central nervous system and other systemic conditions with significant unmet medical needs. By integrating nucleic acid nanotechnology with RNAi science, Switch Therapeutics creates biomarker-gated genetic medicines designed to activate RNA molecules and therapies specifically in targeted cells. This targeted approach aims to enhance the effectiveness of treatments for central nervous system diseases, providing healthcare providers with advanced therapeutic options.
Volastra
Series A in 2023
Volastra Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in New York that focuses on developing therapies for metastatic cancers. Founded in 2019, the company utilizes a library of organoids derived from metastatic cancer samples to understand tumor spread and create targeted therapeutic strategies aimed at chromosomal instability. By integrating artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, and proprietary imaging techniques, Volastra identifies cancers at higher risk of metastasis, allowing healthcare professionals to select appropriate patients for therapy and improve treatment outcomes. Through its innovative approach, Volastra seeks to advance the understanding and management of metastatic diseases.
ProQR Therapeutics
Post in 2022
ProQR Therapeutics N.V. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Leiden, the Netherlands, focused on the discovery and development of RNA-based therapeutics for genetic disorders. The company is advancing several product candidates, including sepofarsen, which is in phase II/III clinical trials for Leber's congenital amaurosis 10, and QR-421a, currently in phase 1/2 trials for Usher syndrome type 2 and non-syndromic retinitis pigmentosa. Additionally, QR-1123 is in phase 1/2 trials for autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa, while QR-504a has commenced its first clinical trial for Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy. ProQR has established collaborations with leading medical and research institutions, including General Hospital Corporation and Radboud University Medical Center. Founded in 2012, the company is dedicated to developing innovative treatments for patients with severe genetic rare diseases.
SonoThera
Series A in 2022
SonoThera is a biotechnology company focused on developing non-viral genetic therapies using ultrasound technology. The company aims to create genetic medicines that address the root causes of human diseases, particularly for conditions that currently have limited or no effective treatments. By leveraging ultrasound-guided nonviral gene therapy, SonoThera seeks to enhance treatment options and improve health outcomes for millions of patients.
Strand Therapeutics
Series A in 2022
Strand Therapeutics Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Boston, Massachusetts, founded in 2017. The company focuses on genetically programming mRNA to develop innovative therapies that enhance patient outcomes. Utilizing its mRNA programming technology, Strand Therapeutics creates gene therapies powered by synthetic biology, which include immunotherapies designed to stimulate cells to produce cancer-targeting proteins. This approach improves the immune system's ability to combat cancer by enabling precise control over the timing, location, and intensity of therapeutic protein expression. The technology leverages cell-type specific expression and responds to specific molecular signals, allowing for tailored therapeutic interventions.
Rezo Therapeutics
Series A in 2022
Rezo Therapeutics is a biotechnology company that focuses on developing precision therapeutics by mapping disease networks. Utilizing its proprietary Sequence to Systems to Drugs (SSD) platform, Rezo integrates various technologies, including proteomics, genetics, structural biology, chemistry, and bioinformatics, to create comprehensive molecular maps of diseases. This innovative approach enhances the identification of novel targets and therapies, particularly in oncology, where Rezo initially concentrates its efforts. The company aims to expand its therapeutic focus through collaborations and partnerships, positioning itself at the forefront of advancing treatment options across multiple disease areas.
Akouos
Acquisition in 2022
Akouos, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Boston, Massachusetts, dedicated to developing gene therapies aimed at restoring, improving, and preserving hearing for individuals affected by various inner ear disorders. Founded in 2016, the company utilizes an innovative platform that includes a proprietary adeno-associated viral vector library and a unique delivery method. Its leading product candidate, AK-OTOF, targets hearing loss resulting from mutations in the OTOF gene. Akouos focuses on genetically-defined patient populations, addressing conditions ranging from single genetic mutations to hearing loss caused by ototoxic drugs and aging. The company has established strategic partnerships with key institutions, including Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Lonza, Inc., to advance its mission of providing precision genetic therapies for sensorineural hearing loss.
Capstan Therapeutics
Series A in 2022
Capstan Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on enhancing the therapeutic potential of in vivo RNA-based therapies. It develops proprietary targeted delivery systems, including targeted lipid nanoparticles, to improve the efficacy and control of dosage in engineered cell therapies. This innovative platform aims to address a variety of diseases, particularly in the fields of oncology, fibrosis, and inflammation, where there are significant unmet clinical needs. By advancing precision in vivo cell engineering, Capstan Therapeutics seeks to create transformative therapeutics that can offer new solutions for patients facing these challenging conditions.
Photys Therapeutics
Series A in 2022
Photys Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing bifunctional small molecules that provide precise control over protein post-translational modifications. This innovative platform allows for the restoration of protein function, repair of cellular signaling pathways, and enhancement of the body's natural disease-fighting abilities. Co-founded by prominent chemist Amit Choudhary from the Broad Institute and the Longwood Fund, Photys is supported by a scientific advisory board that includes renowned experts from institutions such as MIT, Salk Institute, and Berkeley. The company's unique approach aims to advance therapeutic options in the healthcare industry, particularly by targeting kinases and potentially phosphatases, to address various diseases effectively.
Auron Therapeutics
Series A in 2022
Auron Therapeutics is a biotechnology company based in Wellesley, Massachusetts, dedicated to developing innovative therapies for cancer. Founded in 2018, the company aims to transform the treatment paradigm by shifting from traditional cell-killing approaches to differentiation therapy, which seeks to convert malignant cells into normal functioning cells. This strategy reactivates the body's inherent cellular programs to promote tumor maturation and restore normal tissue. Auron Therapeutics utilizes advanced platforms that integrate large omic datasets with high-throughput flow cytometry, enabling the rapid identification and validation of multiple therapeutic targets and drugs using primary human patient samples. Through its research, the company aspires to address unmet medical needs in oncology and provide life-saving treatments for cancer patients.
Artax Biopharma
Venture Round in 2022
Artax Biopharma Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing therapies for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Founded in 2013 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company specializes in small-molecule drugs that act as immunomodulators. Its lead compound, AX-024, specifically targets Nck, disrupting the interaction that activates T-cells, thereby preventing harmful responses against antigens while maintaining the immune system's ability to combat infections. Artax Biopharma's research encompasses a range of conditions, including asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, graft versus host disease, and multiple sclerosis. By aiming to treat both symptoms and underlying disease mechanisms, the company's therapies are designed to minimize side effects associated with traditional treatments.
TRex Bio
Series A in 2022
TRexBio is a biotechnology company that leverages cutting-edge computational biology tools, a focus on human tissue, and expertise in immunobiology to develop therapeutics for cancer and inflammatory diseases. Its 'deep biology' discovery engine maps human tissue Treg behavior to disease processes, identifying and characterizing novel targets for therapeutic intervention. The platform supports the development of a portfolio of therapies that modulate the immune system to restore tissue immune homeostasis.
Arkuda Therapeutics
Series B in 2022
Arkuda Therapeutics is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, founded in 2018. The company focuses on developing innovative medicines for patients suffering from neurological diseases, particularly targeting neurodegenerative conditions. Arkuda leverages insights into progranulin and lysosomal biology to create therapies aimed at addressing progranulin deficiency and lysosomal dysfunction, specifically in genetically-defined frontotemporal dementia related to mutations in the GRN gene. Its lead compounds are designed to improve cellular health in the brain, with the goal of delaying disease progression and the onset of symptoms.
Regor Therapeutics
Venture Round in 2021
Regor Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery and development of innovative medicines targeting oncology, metabolic diseases, and autoimmune diseases. Utilizing its proprietary CARD (Computer Accelerated Rational Discovery) platform, Regor integrates various scientific disciplines, including structural biology, computational chemistry, therapeutic biology, medicinal chemistry, and clinical development. This approach allows the company to efficiently produce both best-in-class and first-in-class therapeutic molecules. With a strong emphasis on scientific expertise, Regor Therapeutics aims to deliver clinically differentiated treatments that address unmet medical needs.
Fountain Therapeutics
Series A in 2021
Fountain Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing treatments for age-related diseases. Founded in 2018 and based in San Francisco, California, the company aims to create a future where individuals live healthier for longer. It employs a transformative cellular model that mimics the complex characteristics of aging within a laboratory setting. By integrating this model with advanced artificial intelligence and computer vision, Fountain Therapeutics seeks to establish an innovative platform for identifying novel therapeutic targets. This approach is designed to facilitate the development of effective treatments for diseases associated with aging, ultimately aiming to reverse cellular aging and improve health outcomes.
Mozart Therapeutics
Series A in 2021
Mozart Therapeutics is a biotechnology startup dedicated to developing disease-modifying therapies for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. The company focuses on a novel regulatory CD8 T cell network to create innovative CD8 Treg modulators aimed at treating a range of autoimmune conditions. By targeting a specific subset of T-lymphocytes, Mozart aims to restore long-term immune balance and prevent the progression of damage caused by autoreactive immune responses. Its pipeline includes first-in-class CD8 Treg modulators designed to delay the onset of autoimmune diseases and improve patient outcomes through advanced treatment options.
Vanqua Bio
Series B in 2021
Vanqua Bio is a biotechnology company dedicated to discovering and developing innovative medicines for patients suffering from neurodegenerative diseases. The company leverages a technology platform that incorporates human genetics and patient-derived neuronal cells to identify and validate new disease pathways linked to lysosomal dysfunction and the inappropriate activation of the innate immune system. Vanqua Bio focuses on creating small-molecule activators of glucocerebrosidase and advancing programs that target the innate immune system, with the aim of addressing the progression of various neurological disorders. Through its efforts, the company seeks to provide healthcare professionals with transformative treatment options for patients facing these challenging conditions.
Lycia Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Lycia Therapeutics is a biotechnology firm focused on discovering and developing first-in-class therapies. The company utilizes its innovative lysosomal targeting chimeras (LYTACs) platform to create therapeutics that target and degrade extracellular and membrane-bound proteins associated with challenging diseases, including cancer and autoimmune disorders. By addressing these difficult-to-treat conditions, Lycia Therapeutics aims to provide medical practitioners with effective treatment options to improve patient outcomes.
Protomer Technologies
Acquisition in 2021
Protomer Technologies Inc. is a pre-clinical stage biotechnology company based in Pasadena, California, founded in 2014. The company specializes in developing therapeutic proteins and peptides using a platform known as Molecular Engineering of Protein Sensors (MEPS). This innovative approach allows for the creation of proteins that can sense molecular activators in the body and be activated as needed. Protomer's primary focus is on addressing metabolic diseases, notably through its development of glucose-responsive insulin aimed at managing blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes. The platform enables variable dosing and targeted delivery of therapeutics, enhancing their effectiveness and adaptability in clinical applications.
MiNA Therapeutics
Corporate Round in 2021
MiNA Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in London, United Kingdom, focused on developing small activating RNA medicines aimed at restoring normal cell function in patients. Established in 2008, the company is advancing its pipeline with products such as MTL-CEBPA combined with Sorafenib for hepatocellular carcinoma and MTL-CEBPA in conjunction with Pembrolizumab for advanced solid tumors. MiNA's innovative approach leverages gene activation mechanisms to transform the treatment landscape for cancer and other serious diseases, enabling healthcare professionals to better address these conditions.
TRex Bio
Series A in 2021
TRexBio is a biotechnology company that leverages cutting-edge computational biology tools, a focus on human tissue, and expertise in immunobiology to develop therapeutics for cancer and inflammatory diseases. Its 'deep biology' discovery engine maps human tissue Treg behavior to disease processes, identifying and characterizing novel targets for therapeutic intervention. The platform supports the development of a portfolio of therapies that modulate the immune system to restore tissue immune homeostasis.
Circle Pharma
Series C in 2021
Circle Pharma, Inc. is an early-stage biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California, founded in 2012 by Matt Jacobson and Scott Lokey. The company focuses on developing cell-permeable macrocyclic peptide therapeutics by employing proprietary computational design algorithms and innovative synthetic chemistry. Circle Pharma utilizes an iterative design process that leverages large virtual libraries of conformationally diverse macrocycle scaffolds, which are selected for their inherent permeability. This approach allows the company to create first-in-class macrocycle therapies that can be administered through multiple routes, including oral delivery. The therapeutics target challenging clinical issues, particularly intracellular protein-protein interactions that are significant contributors to cancer, thereby addressing unmet medical needs and enhancing the capabilities of healthcare professionals in their treatment efforts.
Jaguar Gene Therapy
Series B in 2021
Jaguar Gene Therapy is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on advancing gene therapy solutions for patients with severe genetic diseases. The company aims to address significant unmet medical needs by developing therapies that target nonworking or absent genes, introducing healthy copies of these genes to restore their function. By accelerating the process of bringing innovative gene therapies from research to clinical application, Jaguar Gene Therapy seeks to improve patient outcomes and enhance the overall standard of care for those affected by genetic disorders.
Amphista Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Amphista Therapeutics Limited is a biopharmaceutical company based in Motherwell, United Kingdom, established in 2017. The company specializes in targeted protein degradation technology to develop innovative cancer therapeutics. Amphista's approach focuses on harnessing the body's natural processes to selectively and efficiently degrade disease-causing proteins, aiming to create first-in-class treatments. By advancing novel methodologies in targeted protein degradation, Amphista seeks to improve therapeutic efficacy and modulate protein abundance linked to disease progression, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes in oncology.
DTx Pharma
Series B in 2021
DTx Pharma, LLC is a biotechnology company focused on developing and commercializing fatty acid-conjugated peptide therapeutics for patients with rare and chronic diseases. The company specializes in RNA-based therapeutics, utilizing a delivery technology platform that enhances the distribution of nucleic acid drugs to various tissues and organ systems beyond the liver. This innovative approach addresses limitations associated with previous-generation RNA delivery methods, such as poor pharmacokinetics and inadequate cellular uptake. DTx Pharma's products target conditions including retinitis pigmentosa, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and central nervous system disorders. Founded in 2017 and based in San Diego, California, DTx Pharma aims to provide personalized treatment options across multiple therapeutic areas.
Evox Therapeutics
Series C in 2021
Evox Therapeutics is a biotechnology company based in Oxford, United Kingdom, founded in 2016. The company specializes in developing exosome-based therapeutics aimed at treating rare and severe diseases. By harnessing and engineering the natural delivery capabilities of extracellular vesicles, known as exosomes, Evox focuses on creating innovative drug delivery systems that utilize nucleic acids and proteins. This technology allows for targeted delivery to specific organs, including the brain and central nervous system, addressing limitations often encountered with traditional therapies. Evox's proprietary methods for modifying exosomes enhance their ability to transport therapeutic agents effectively, thereby improving treatment options for patients with limited alternatives. The company is supported by a strong intellectual property portfolio and investments from leading life sciences venture capital groups, positioning it as a leader in the emerging field of exosome-based therapeutics.
Auron Therapeutics
Seed Round in 2021
Auron Therapeutics is a biotechnology company based in Wellesley, Massachusetts, dedicated to developing innovative therapies for cancer. Founded in 2018, the company aims to transform the treatment paradigm by shifting from traditional cell-killing approaches to differentiation therapy, which seeks to convert malignant cells into normal functioning cells. This strategy reactivates the body's inherent cellular programs to promote tumor maturation and restore normal tissue. Auron Therapeutics utilizes advanced platforms that integrate large omic datasets with high-throughput flow cytometry, enabling the rapid identification and validation of multiple therapeutic targets and drugs using primary human patient samples. Through its research, the company aspires to address unmet medical needs in oncology and provide life-saving treatments for cancer patients.
Blacksmith Medicines
Seed Round in 2021
Blacksmith Medicines is focused on developing innovative therapies that target metal-dependent enzymes, known as metalloenzymes, which play a crucial role in human physiology. With over 30% of known enzymes classified as metalloenzymes, they encompass all major enzyme classes, including oxidoreductases, transferases, and hydrolases. Blacksmith Medicines utilizes a specialized platform that combines a curated library of metal-binding pharmacophores with advanced computational modeling techniques. This approach allows for the rapid and systematic design of small molecule inhibitors that specifically interact with key metal ions within the enzyme's active site. The company's efforts are particularly directed towards creating medicines for immuno-oncology and inflammatory diseases, offering the potential for more effective and selective therapeutic options.
Terns Pharmaceuticals
Series C in 2021
Terns Pharmaceuticals is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company that focuses on discovering and developing molecularly targeted, oral small-molecule drugs aimed at treating cancer and liver diseases. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Foster City, California, with additional offices in Shanghai, China, Terns is dedicated to advancing a pipeline of innovative therapeutic candidates. Its notable products include TERN-101, a potent farnesoid X receptor agonist, and TERN-201, an amine oxidase inhibitor. The company leverages its expertise in disease biology and medicinal chemistry, along with a capital-efficient drug discovery model and robust clinical development capabilities, to address significant unmet medical needs in both China and the global market.
Prevail Therapeutics
Acquisition in 2020
Prevail Therapeutics Inc. is a biotechnology company headquartered in New York, specializing in the development and commercialization of gene therapies targeting neurodegenerative diseases. Founded in 2017, the company focuses on adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based therapies, with its lead candidate, PR001, currently undergoing Phase I/II clinical trials for Parkinson's disease associated with GBA1 mutations and neuronopathic Gaucher disease. Additionally, Prevail is advancing PR006 for frontotemporal dementia linked to GRN mutations and PR004 for various synucleinopathies. The company's mission is to provide disease-modifying treatments for patients suffering from these challenging conditions.
Faze Medicines
Series A in 2020
Faze Medicines is a biotechnology company founded in 2020 and located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The company focuses on developing small molecule drugs that target the underlying mechanisms of disease pathology, with initial therapeutic efforts directed towards conditions such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1). Faze Medicines employs advanced screening and proteomics techniques to explore biomolecular condensate interaction networks, which aids in the identification and development of novel therapeutics. Through its innovative approach, Faze aims to provide effective treatments for patients suffering from these challenging diseases.
Centrexion Therapeutics
Venture Round in 2020
Centrexion Therapeutics Corporation is a late clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Boston, Massachusetts, dedicated to developing non-opioid and non-addictive therapies aimed at addressing chronic pain. The company's product pipeline includes CNTX-4975, currently in Phase III trials for moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis pain, and in Phase II trials for Morton’s neuroma and canine osteoarthritis. Additionally, CNTX-0290 is in Phase I trials targeting chronic pain associated with inflammatory, neuropathic, and mixed conditions. Other candidates under development include CNTX-6970, for inflammatory pain, and CNTX-2022, a high-concentration topical gel formulation of lidocaine for various types of pain. CNTX-6016 is also in pre-clinical stages focusing on chronic neuropathic pain. Founded in 2013, Centrexion Therapeutics aims to provide safe and effective solutions for patients suffering from chronic pain conditions.
Disarm Therapeutics
Acquisition in 2020
Disarm Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing therapeutics for patients suffering from neurological diseases. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company aims to create disease-modifying drugs that prevent axonal degeneration, which is a key factor in various neurological disorders. Disarm's portfolio addresses conditions such as multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, glaucoma, and peripheral neuropathies, providing potential treatments for acute diseases affecting the central, ocular, and peripheral nervous systems. As of late 2020, Disarm Therapeutics operates as a subsidiary of Eli Lilly and Company.
Cedilla Therapeutics
Series B in 2020
Cedilla Therapeutics, Inc. is focused on developing targeted small-molecule medicines aimed at treating cancer and other diseases resulting from protein dysregulation. The company leverages unique insights into protein stability to create innovative therapeutic approaches, including direct ligand-induced degradation, disruption of protein-protein interactions, and the identification of upstream regulators that influence protein stability. Cedilla’s technology allows for the mapping of protein susceptibility to enhance endogenous degradation pathways, facilitating the transition from stable to susceptible protein states. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Cedilla Therapeutics aims to broaden the applicability of its therapies beyond oncology, addressing a range of conditions associated with protein dysregulation.
Nido Biosciences
Venture Round in 2020
Nido Biosciences, Inc., founded in 2018 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a clinical-stage company focused on developing precision medicines for severe neurological diseases. The company utilizes a functional genomics discovery platform based on human cell lines to identify novel therapeutic targets, addressing the underlying biology of neurodegenerative diseases. By leveraging advancements in neuroscience and human genetics, Nido aims to create precise medications that restore healthy cell function and improve treatment options for conditions that significantly impact patient quality of life.
AbCellera
Series B in 2020
AbCellera is a biotechnology company specializing in antibody discovery and development. It uses an integrated platform combining proprietary hardware, software, tools, and advanced data science to efficiently identify and develop optimal antibodies for clinical use. The company partners with both emerging biotechs and established pharmaceutical companies, leveraging its expertise to accelerate the drug development process and improve patient outcomes.
Sitryx Therapeutics
Corporate Round in 2020
Sitryx Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company founded in 2018 and headquartered in Oxford, United Kingdom. The company focuses on developing innovative disease-modifying therapeutics in the fields of immuno-oncology and immuno-inflammation by regulating cell metabolism. Sitryx aims to enhance immune cell functions to inhibit tumor growth and improve immune responses. Co-founded by leading scientists from the United States and Europe, the company has attracted significant investment, including $30 million in Series A funding from a consortium of specialist investors. Sitryx has established a diverse pipeline of projects at various stages of drug discovery, positioning itself at the forefront of immunometabolism research.
Immunocore
Series B in 2020
Immunocore Limited is a biotechnology company based in Abingdon, United Kingdom, with a focus on discovering and developing novel therapeutics for cancer, viral diseases, and autoimmune conditions. The company specializes in T cell receptor (TCR) technology, which allows it to create innovative bispecific immunotherapies. Its lead product candidate, IMCgp100, is currently undergoing clinical trials for the treatment of metastatic melanoma. Immunocore's proprietary platform enables efficient manufacturing of TCR-based drugs, addressing significant unmet medical needs. Founded in 1999 and previously known as Avidex Limited, Immunocore has expanded its operations with an additional office in Conshohocken.
Dermira
Acquisition in 2020
Dermira, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Menlo Park, California, that focuses on developing and commercializing therapies for dermatologic conditions in the United States. The company offers QBREXZA, a once-daily topical treatment for primary axillary hyperhidrosis in patients aged nine years and older. Additionally, Dermira is advancing several product candidates, including lebrikizumab, a monoclonal antibody currently in Phase IIb trials for moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis, and glycopyrronium tosylate, which is in Phase III trials for hyperhidrosis. Dermira also has collaborations with other companies for the development and commercialization of its products, such as a partnership with UCB Pharma for Cimzia, aimed at treating chronic plaque psoriasis. Founded in 2010, Dermira aims to provide innovative solutions for dermatologists and their patients.
DTx Pharma
Series A in 2020
DTx Pharma, LLC is a biotechnology company focused on developing and commercializing fatty acid-conjugated peptide therapeutics for patients with rare and chronic diseases. The company specializes in RNA-based therapeutics, utilizing a delivery technology platform that enhances the distribution of nucleic acid drugs to various tissues and organ systems beyond the liver. This innovative approach addresses limitations associated with previous-generation RNA delivery methods, such as poor pharmacokinetics and inadequate cellular uptake. DTx Pharma's products target conditions including retinitis pigmentosa, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and central nervous system disorders. Founded in 2017 and based in San Diego, California, DTx Pharma aims to provide personalized treatment options across multiple therapeutic areas.
Avidity Biosciences
Series C in 2019
Avidity Biosciences, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing oligonucleotide-based therapies known as antibody oligonucleotide conjugates (AOCs). These innovative therapies aim to address the limitations of traditional oligonucleotide treatments by combining the tissue selectivity of monoclonal antibodies with the precision of oligonucleotide therapies. This approach allows Avidity to target previously undruggable tissue and cell types, thereby addressing the underlying genetic drivers of various diseases. The company's lead product candidate, AOC 1001, is designed to treat myotonic dystrophy type 1, a rare muscle disease. Additionally, Avidity is advancing multiple programs aimed at treating muscle-related conditions such as muscle atrophy, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy, and Pompe disease. Founded in 2012 and based in La Jolla, California, Avidity is also exploring therapeutic applications in immune and other cell types.
Avidity Biosciences
Venture Round in 2019
Avidity Biosciences, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing oligonucleotide-based therapies known as antibody oligonucleotide conjugates (AOCs). These innovative therapies aim to address the limitations of traditional oligonucleotide treatments by combining the tissue selectivity of monoclonal antibodies with the precision of oligonucleotide therapies. This approach allows Avidity to target previously undruggable tissue and cell types, thereby addressing the underlying genetic drivers of various diseases. The company's lead product candidate, AOC 1001, is designed to treat myotonic dystrophy type 1, a rare muscle disease. Additionally, Avidity is advancing multiple programs aimed at treating muscle-related conditions such as muscle atrophy, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy, and Pompe disease. Founded in 2012 and based in La Jolla, California, Avidity is also exploring therapeutic applications in immune and other cell types.
Loxo Oncology
Acquisition in 2019
Loxo Oncology, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Stamford, Connecticut, focused on developing and commercializing targeted therapies for genetically defined cancers in the United States. Founded in 2013, the company aims to bring innovative cancer treatments to the clinic by identifying actionable "driver mutations" in tumors. Its lead product candidate, larotrectinib, is an oral selective inhibitor of tropomyosin receptor kinase (TRK) and is undergoing various clinical trials for multiple cancer types, including lung, melanoma, and breast cancer. Loxo Oncology is also advancing several preclinical programs, including candidates targeting RET fusion proteins and FGFR isoforms. The company has established collaborations with several organizations to enhance its drug discovery efforts and optimize its clinical development strategies. As a subsidiary of Eli Lilly and Company, Loxo Oncology is dedicated to creating effective therapies that address specific genetic vulnerabilities in cancer patients.
Dicerna Pharmaceuticals
Post in 2018
Dicerna Pharmaceuticals is a biotechnology company dedicated to the discovery and development of innovative treatments for rare inherited diseases and other conditions affecting the liver. Utilizing its proprietary ribonucleic acid interference (RNAi) technology, specifically the GalXC platform, Dicerna focuses on silencing disease-causing genes to develop pharmaceuticals for various therapeutic areas, including liver diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and cancers. Key product candidates include nedosiran for primary hyperoxaluria, RG6346 for chronic hepatitis B virus infection, and additional programs targeting undisclosed rare liver diseases. The company has established strategic collaborations with several major pharmaceutical firms to enhance its research and development efforts. Founded in 2006 and headquartered in Lexington, Massachusetts, Dicerna Pharmaceuticals aims to address significant unmet medical needs through its innovative approaches.
Aurka Pharma
Acquisition in 2018
AurKa Pharma is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing a single compound aimed at treating solid tumors. The company has completed GLP toxicology studies and plans to initiate clinical development, pending regulatory approval. The primary objective is to demonstrate clinical proof-of-concept of efficacy in solid tumors, with the potential to explore additional cancer indications in the future. Through this targeted approach, AurKa Pharma aims to enhance treatment options for patients suffering from cancer.
Entrega Bio
Venture Round in 2017
Entrega Bio is a Boston-based company that specializes in developing a proprietary hydrogel technology aimed at improving the oral delivery of injectable substances, including biologics, vaccines, and other medications that typically face absorption challenges. This innovative platform allows for the creation of customizable oral dosage forms that enhance the stability and absorption of large and unstable drug molecules by effectively controlling the gastrointestinal fluid microenvironment. By collaborating with both pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical partners, Entrega Bio aims to advance therapeutic and diagnostic applications across various fields, including disease management and mobile health.
Leap Therapeutics
Post in 2017
Leap Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, specializing in the development of targeted and immuno-oncology therapies for cancer treatment. Founded in 2011 and previously known as HealthCare Pharmaceuticals, the company focuses on identifying and developing molecules that inhibit tumor-promoting pathways and activate the immune system against cancer cells. Its lead program, DKN-01, is a monoclonal antibody targeting Dickkopf-related protein 1 (DKK1) and is currently undergoing clinical trials for various cancers, including esophagogastric and gynecologic cancers. Additionally, Leap Therapeutics is advancing its second program, FL-301, which targets Claudin18.2-expressing cells, along with two preclinical antibody programs, FL-302 and FL-501, aimed at developing transformative treatments for cancer.
Rodeo Therapeutics
Series A in 2017
Rodeo Therapeutics Corp. is a drug development company based in Seattle, Washington, focused on creating novel small molecule therapies aimed at treating inflammatory bowel disease and enhancing blood cell reconstitution after bone marrow transplants. Founded in 2017, the company specializes in targeting specific enzymes and biological pathways that are vital for tissue repair and regeneration. Its therapies work by increasing tissue levels of prostaglandin PGE2 through the inhibition of a prostaglandin-degrading enzyme, thereby facilitating tissue regeneration and protecting against conditions such as colitis. Rodeo Therapeutics is dedicated to advancing treatments that improve patient outcomes in various medical conditions related to tissue damage and recovery.
CoLucid Pharmaceuticals
Acquisition in 2017
CoLucid Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, established in 2005. The company specializes in developing therapies for central nervous system disorders. Its primary product, COL-144, is an anti-migraine agent aimed at treating migraine headaches. Additionally, CoLucid is working on COL-204, a conjugated stigmine platform designed to create novel therapeutic entities for various conditions, including sleep/wake disorders, chronic pain, Alzheimer's disease, and psychiatric disorders. Through its innovative approaches, CoLucid Pharmaceuticals aims to address significant unmet medical needs in the field of neurology.
ApoGen Biotechnologies
Series A in 2016
ApoGen Biotechnologies, Inc., founded in 2014 and located in Seattle, Washington, is dedicated to developing innovative therapeutics aimed at addressing the challenges of cancer treatment, particularly the issue of drug resistance. The company focuses on targeting the key drivers of genomic mutations in cancer cells, which are central to tumor evolution and the development of resistance to existing therapies. By addressing the chronic mutations in cancer genomes, ApoGen aims to improve treatment efficacy, reduce cancer recurrence and metastasis, and enhance overall patient survival. The company's approach represents a shift from traditional therapies, providing new hope in the ongoing battle against cancer.
Lodo Therapeutics
Series A in 2016
Lodo Therapeutics Corporation is a drug discovery and development company dedicated to creating novel therapeutics derived from natural sources. It focuses on addressing significant health challenges, particularly resistant infectious diseases and cancers, by collaborating with global pharmaceutical companies and leading non-governmental organizations. Founded to realize the scientific vision of Dr. Sean Brady from Rockefeller University, Lodo Therapeutics utilizes a genome-based, culture-independent platform to discover and characterize small molecules sourced from environmental microbial DNA. This innovative approach leverages advancements in DNA sequencing and bioinformatics to explore the untapped potential of microbial evolution, aiming to identify therapeutically valuable pharmaceutical products. Headquartered in New York City at the Alexandria Center for Life Science, Lodo Therapeutics is committed to harnessing the power of nature in the fight against undruggable targets and high unmet medical needs.
Zymeworks
Series A in 2016
Zymeworks Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Vancouver, Canada, focused on the discovery, development, and commercialization of innovative biotherapeutics for cancer treatment. The company's lead candidates include ZW25, a bispecific antibody undergoing Phase I and II clinical trials for various tumors, including biliary tract and gastroesophageal adenocarcinomas, and ZW49, a bispecific antibody-drug conjugate in Phase I trials for advanced HER2-expressing cancers. Zymeworks employs a computational biotechnology approach, utilizing proprietary molecular modeling and simulation technologies to optimize therapeutic antibodies and other protein-based therapeutics. The company has established strategic partnerships with notable organizations such as Merck, Eli Lilly, and Bristol-Myers Squibb, as well as collaborations aimed at advancing antibody discovery and development. Founded in 2003, Zymeworks is dedicated to addressing unmet medical needs through its advanced therapeutic platforms and integrated drug development capabilities.
Petra Pharma
Series A in 2016
Petra Pharma Corporation is a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company based in New York that focuses on discovering and developing therapies targeting phosphoinositide (PI) signaling pathways. Established in 2015, the company aims to create novel small molecules that address serious medical conditions, particularly cancer and metabolic diseases. By honing in on unique enzyme targets involved in critical cellular processes such as cell division, growth, trafficking, and signaling, Petra Pharma seeks to develop innovative treatments that can enhance human health and provide new options for healthcare providers.
Beta Bionics
Series A in 2015
Beta Bionics is a biotechnology company focused on developing an integrated bionic pancreas system known as the iLet. This innovative device aims to alleviate the challenges and costs associated with diabetes care by providing a dual-chamber infusion pump that delivers insulin and glucagon with precision. The iLet autonomously calculates and administers the necessary doses, enabling patients to effectively manage their blood sugar levels. The system has received breakthrough designation for all its configurations, including insulin-only, glucagon-only, and bihormonal options, and is compatible with Zealand Pharma’s dasiglucagon, a glucagon analogue known for its stability in a ready-to-use aqueous solution. Through this technology, Beta Bionics seeks to improve the quality of life for individuals living with diabetes.
Caldan Therapeutics
Series A in 2015
Caldan Therapeutics Ltd is a biotechnology company that originated as a spinout from the University of Glasgow and the University of Southern Denmark. The company focuses on the development of novel therapeutics that target free fatty acid receptors, which play a significant role in the pathophysiology of metabolic diseases, particularly Type 2 Diabetes (T2D). Through a collaboration between Professor Graeme Milligan and Professor Trond Ulven, Caldan Therapeutics aims to address various aspects of T2D, including insulin secretion, insulin sensitivity, and islet cell protection. In addition to T2D, there is potential for the company's therapeutics to be applied in treating other conditions such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and inflammatory diseases.
Immunocore
Series A in 2015
Immunocore Limited is a biotechnology company based in Abingdon, United Kingdom, with a focus on discovering and developing novel therapeutics for cancer, viral diseases, and autoimmune conditions. The company specializes in T cell receptor (TCR) technology, which allows it to create innovative bispecific immunotherapies. Its lead product candidate, IMCgp100, is currently undergoing clinical trials for the treatment of metastatic melanoma. Immunocore's proprietary platform enables efficient manufacturing of TCR-based drugs, addressing significant unmet medical needs. Founded in 1999 and previously known as Avidex Limited, Immunocore has expanded its operations with an additional office in Conshohocken.
Zymeworks
Venture Round in 2014
Zymeworks Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Vancouver, Canada, focused on the discovery, development, and commercialization of innovative biotherapeutics for cancer treatment. The company's lead candidates include ZW25, a bispecific antibody undergoing Phase I and II clinical trials for various tumors, including biliary tract and gastroesophageal adenocarcinomas, and ZW49, a bispecific antibody-drug conjugate in Phase I trials for advanced HER2-expressing cancers. Zymeworks employs a computational biotechnology approach, utilizing proprietary molecular modeling and simulation technologies to optimize therapeutic antibodies and other protein-based therapeutics. The company has established strategic partnerships with notable organizations such as Merck, Eli Lilly, and Bristol-Myers Squibb, as well as collaborations aimed at advancing antibody discovery and development. Founded in 2003, Zymeworks is dedicated to addressing unmet medical needs through its advanced therapeutic platforms and integrated drug development capabilities.
Sutro Biopharma
Series D in 2013
Sutro Biopharma is a clinical-stage drug discovery, development, and manufacturing company based in South San Francisco, California. The company specializes in creating next-generation protein therapeutics aimed at treating cancer and autoimmune disorders through its proprietary integrated cell-free protein synthesis platform, XpressCF. Among its product candidates are STRO-001, an antibody-drug conjugate targeting CD74 for patients with multiple myeloma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and STRO-002, which is directed against folate receptor-alpha for individuals with ovarian and endometrial cancers. Sutro Biopharma also has a collaboration and licensing agreement with Celgene Corporation to develop bispecific antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates primarily in the field of immuno-oncology. Founded in 2003, the company continues to advance its innovative therapeutic candidates through rigorous clinical development.
Novast
Corporate Round in 2012
Novast Holdings Ltd. is a multinational pharmaceutical company with operations in China and the United States, specializing in the research, development, and manufacture of FDA-inspected generic drugs. The company focuses on creating complex formulations that incorporate challenging active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and offers product development services leveraging its expertise in novel technologies and drug delivery systems. Novast has established itself as a prominent player in the pharmaceutical industry in China, possessing unique capabilities in drug development, quality systems, and infrastructure. It collaborates with pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies to bring products to regulated markets, particularly the U.S. market, where it is recognized as a pioneer among Chinese companies selling pharmaceuticals locally. Novast also operates cGMP manufacturing facilities and has a management team experienced in securing numerous generic drug patents in the U.S., alongside independent research and development of innovative drug-delivery technologies.
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