Esperante Ventures

AMLo Biosciences Ltd is a biotechnology company based in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom, focused on developing diagnostic solutions for melanoma. Incorporated in 2017, the company has created a diagnostic kit that utilizes the AMBLor test, which accurately predicts the risk of disease progression in patients with early AJCC Stage I and Stage II melanoma. This test identifies two specific proteins in the skin overlying the primary tumor that are typically lost in high-risk melanoma cases. By providing a reliable prognostic assessment, AMLo aims to help stratify patients for appropriate treatment and follow-up, ultimately reducing the psychological burden on patients and decreasing healthcare costs associated with unnecessary surveillance.

Acousia Therapeutics GmbH is a biotechnology company based in Tübingen, Germany, focused on developing innovative treatments for hearing loss. Established in 2012, the company specializes in identifying small molecules that can be applied locally to protect or restore hearing function. Acousia's approach centers on stimulating the regeneration of sensory hair cells in the inner ear, which are crucial for hearing. This regenerative capability is achieved by leveraging supporting cells that can replace lost hair cells. The company's therapeutic candidates aim to address hearing loss caused by various factors, such as noise exposure, ototoxic medication, and sudden deafness, and also hold potential for treating age-related hearing decline.

Spiral Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company founded in 2016 and based in San Francisco, California. The company specializes in developing novel therapies for inner ear disorders, particularly focusing on acute and subacute hearing loss as well as balance disorders caused by neurodegenerative, inflammatory, or vascular issues. Spiral Therapeutics employs a unique platform that aims to deliver targeted drug therapies directly to the inner ear, optimizing treatment effectiveness by ensuring that the right medications are administered at the right location and for the appropriate duration. Through its innovative approach, the company seeks to provide patients with effective treatments for hearing loss and related conditions.

Pneumagen is a biotechnology company based in Saint Andrews, United Kingdom, focused on developing innovative therapies for respiratory tract infections and cancer. Founded in 2016 as a spin-out from the University of St Andrews, the company specializes in glycan-targeted carbohydrate-binding modules (CBMs), which act as a universal therapeutic modality. These CBMs are designed to prevent infection from respiratory viruses, thereby reducing hospitalizations due to disease exacerbation in patients with underlying respiratory conditions. Pneumagen leverages world-class scientific expertise and capabilities in glycobiology to advance its research and development efforts.

AMLo Biosciences Ltd is a biotechnology company based in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom, focused on developing diagnostic solutions for melanoma. Incorporated in 2017, the company has created a diagnostic kit that utilizes the AMBLor test, which accurately predicts the risk of disease progression in patients with early AJCC Stage I and Stage II melanoma. This test identifies two specific proteins in the skin overlying the primary tumor that are typically lost in high-risk melanoma cases. By providing a reliable prognostic assessment, AMLo aims to help stratify patients for appropriate treatment and follow-up, ultimately reducing the psychological burden on patients and decreasing healthcare costs associated with unnecessary surveillance.

Versantis AG is a Swiss pharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative medicines and diagnostics for liver diseases. Founded in 2015 and based in Zurich, Versantis aims to address significant unmet medical needs for patients globally. Its lead candidate, VS-01, is currently in preclinical development and has the potential to be the first treatment for acute liver disease while simultaneously supporting multiple failing organs. VS-01 has received Orphan Drug Designation for its application in acute liver failure. The company also has additional treatments in its pipeline, including VS-02 and VS-03, which target chronic liver diseases and drug intoxications, respectively. These developments represent substantial market opportunities and underscore Versantis' commitment to improving patient outcomes for millions affected by liver conditions and related disorders.

Arquer Diagnostics Ltd. is a diagnostics company specializing in the design, development, and commercialization of non-invasive immunoassay diagnostic tests for bladder and prostate cancer. The company offers an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for measuring specific substances in body fluids, including a CE-marked ELISA kit for Mcm5, which is used in hospital pathology laboratories. Additionally, Arquer provides a point-of-care system that includes a robust reader instrument and disposable cartridges, facilitating the use of its tests in urology clinics, hospital laboratories, and general practice surgeries. Founded in 2005 and based in Sunderland, United Kingdom, Arquer Diagnostics aims to enhance cancer diagnosis and monitoring through its innovative technology, which detects a protein linked to the MCM5 gene, improving the accuracy and reliability of test results for patients and clinicians.

Oxford Cancer Biomarkers is a company focused on the development and commercialization of a range of biomarker tests specifically for colorectal cancer, aimed at enhancing personalized medicine in oncology. Closely associated with the Institute of Cancer Medicine at Oxford University, where its founders conduct leading research in translational cancer science, the company has established partnerships with pharmaceutical firms to leverage its discovery platforms, CancerNav and ToxNav, in creating companion diagnostic tests for emerging drugs. The tests provided by Oxford Cancer Biomarkers assess dihydropyridine dehydrogenase deficiency, identify variants linked to partial dihydropyrimidine deficiency, and evaluate the risk of potential toxicity, allowing healthcare providers to analyze resected tissue samples and predict relapse risk for patients more effectively.

Arquer Diagnostics Ltd. is a diagnostics company specializing in the design, development, and commercialization of non-invasive immunoassay diagnostic tests for bladder and prostate cancer. The company offers an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for measuring specific substances in body fluids, including a CE-marked ELISA kit for Mcm5, which is used in hospital pathology laboratories. Additionally, Arquer provides a point-of-care system that includes a robust reader instrument and disposable cartridges, facilitating the use of its tests in urology clinics, hospital laboratories, and general practice surgeries. Founded in 2005 and based in Sunderland, United Kingdom, Arquer Diagnostics aims to enhance cancer diagnosis and monitoring through its innovative technology, which detects a protein linked to the MCM5 gene, improving the accuracy and reliability of test results for patients and clinicians.

Altacor Limited is a UK-based company specializing in the development and marketing of ophthalmic products aimed at treating chronic eye conditions. Founded in 2005 and located in Cambridge, Altacor focuses on creating high-quality prescription medicines tailored for the needs of ophthalmologists and patients. The company's product portfolio addresses various conditions, including dry eye syndrome, glaucoma, and complications associated with ocular surgeries. Altacor's offerings include preservative-free prescription products, dry eye retail items, and specialized treatments for age-related eye diseases. The company combines expertise in drug development with a deep understanding of the European regulatory landscape, positioning itself to set new standards in the ophthalmic sector.

Arquer Diagnostics Ltd. is a diagnostics company specializing in the design, development, and commercialization of non-invasive immunoassay diagnostic tests for bladder and prostate cancer. The company offers an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for measuring specific substances in body fluids, including a CE-marked ELISA kit for Mcm5, which is used in hospital pathology laboratories. Additionally, Arquer provides a point-of-care system that includes a robust reader instrument and disposable cartridges, facilitating the use of its tests in urology clinics, hospital laboratories, and general practice surgeries. Founded in 2005 and based in Sunderland, United Kingdom, Arquer Diagnostics aims to enhance cancer diagnosis and monitoring through its innovative technology, which detects a protein linked to the MCM5 gene, improving the accuracy and reliability of test results for patients and clinicians.

Cytox Limited is a company focused on developing innovative products and services for the diagnosis and treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, particularly Alzheimer's disease. Established in 2004 and headquartered in Birmingham, UK, with additional offices in Manchester and Oxford, Cytox has created a genetic-based blood test that assesses the risk and early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease, which currently affects millions worldwide. The company employs cellular and genetic assays to identify early cell cycle deficits in patients, aiding pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies in clinical trials and drug development for Alzheimer's and mild cognitive impairment. Cytox's strategic partnership with Affymetrix, part of Thermo Fisher Scientific, enhances its capabilities in delivering these assessments and supporting the development of novel therapeutics.

Haemostatix Ltd. is a biotechnology company based in Nottingham, United Kingdom, founded in 2003 as a spin-out from the University of Leicester. The company specializes in developing a peptide-based platform technology aimed at creating innovative products for controlling surgical bleeding and promoting tissue repair. Its primary product, PeproStat, is a coagulant that can be directly applied to surgical wounds to effectively manage bleeding. Haemostatix’s technology utilizes a specific peptide sequence that binds to fibrinogen, a crucial protein in clot formation. This platform supports a diverse pipeline of first-in-class hemostatic products designed to address various bleeding scenarios, including those encountered in surgery, trauma, and among leukaemic patients. Haemostatix operates as a subsidiary of Ergomed plc.

Arquer Diagnostics Ltd. is a diagnostics company specializing in the design, development, and commercialization of non-invasive immunoassay diagnostic tests for bladder and prostate cancer. The company offers an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for measuring specific substances in body fluids, including a CE-marked ELISA kit for Mcm5, which is used in hospital pathology laboratories. Additionally, Arquer provides a point-of-care system that includes a robust reader instrument and disposable cartridges, facilitating the use of its tests in urology clinics, hospital laboratories, and general practice surgeries. Founded in 2005 and based in Sunderland, United Kingdom, Arquer Diagnostics aims to enhance cancer diagnosis and monitoring through its innovative technology, which detects a protein linked to the MCM5 gene, improving the accuracy and reliability of test results for patients and clinicians.

Atox Bio Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Ness Ziona, Israel, with an additional office in North Carolina. Founded in 2003, the company specializes in developing immunomodulators aimed at treating critically ill patients facing severe acute inflammation due to infections. Atox Bio focuses on novel modulators of the immune response, targeting both adaptive and innate pathways that play crucial roles in managing infectious and inflammatory diseases, as well as ischemia/reperfusion injuries. The company's products are designed to improve outcomes for patients suffering from rare, life-threatening infections, demonstrating significant improvements in various clinical endpoints. By enhancing the host's ability to combat infections and minimizing tissue damage during acute inflammatory events, Atox Bio aims to address serious unmet medical needs in critical care settings.

Haemostatix Ltd. is a biotechnology company based in Nottingham, United Kingdom, founded in 2003 as a spin-out from the University of Leicester. The company specializes in developing a peptide-based platform technology aimed at creating innovative products for controlling surgical bleeding and promoting tissue repair. Its primary product, PeproStat, is a coagulant that can be directly applied to surgical wounds to effectively manage bleeding. Haemostatix’s technology utilizes a specific peptide sequence that binds to fibrinogen, a crucial protein in clot formation. This platform supports a diverse pipeline of first-in-class hemostatic products designed to address various bleeding scenarios, including those encountered in surgery, trauma, and among leukaemic patients. Haemostatix operates as a subsidiary of Ergomed plc.

Anergis is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Lausanne, Switzerland, founded in 2001 by Francois Spertini. The company specializes in the discovery and development of allergy vaccines utilizing a proprietary technology known as Contiguous Overlapping Peptides, aimed at enabling ultra-fast desensitization for patients with allergies. Anergis offers immunotherapy solutions targeting common allergens such as birch pollen, ragweed pollen, and house dust mites. Their innovative approach focuses on providing disease-modifying treatments that seek to deliver long-term cures for allergies, ultimately reducing treatment time and improving the overall medical management of allergy sufferers.

Canbex Therapeutics, Ltd. is a London-based company focused on developing peripherally-acting cannabinoid agonists aimed at treating spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis and other neurodegenerative diseases. Founded in 2005, the company addresses the debilitating symptoms of spasticity, which include involuntary muscle spasms and stiffness. Canbex Therapeutics strives to enhance the quality of life for individuals suffering from this serious and often incurable condition, with the objective of establishing a new standard in the treatment of spasticity.

Karus Therapeutics Limited is a biopharmaceutical company based in Oxfordshire, United Kingdom, that specializes in the development of small molecule drugs aimed at treating cancer and immune/inflammatory disorders. Founded in 2005, the company focuses on designing innovative, molecular-targeted therapies. Its portfolio includes orally-active drugs such as KA2237, a dual-selective inhibitor of PI3K isoforms effective against hematological and solid tumors, and KA2507, which targets HDAC6 for tumors expressing PD-L1. By combining targeted therapy with immunotherapeutic activity, Karus Therapeutics aims to provide effective treatment options for a diverse range of cancers.

Novacta Biosystems Ltd, founded in 2003, is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative treatments for bacterial infections, particularly those caused by drug-resistant bacteria. Utilizing expertise from GSK's Biotransformation and Natural Products scientific team, the company has established a dual business model that encompasses both the development of a therapeutic pipeline and the provision of biocatalysis and microbial pathway engineering services. Novacta specializes in the discovery, development, and commercialization of a novel class of small peptide molecules known as lantibiotics, which are designed to combat infections such as Clostridium difficile. Through its efforts, Novacta aims to address critical needs in the field of infectious diseases by providing effective anti-infective solutions.

Cara Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Stamford, Connecticut, specializing in the development and commercialization of innovative therapeutics for pain and pruritus. The company primarily focuses on its lead product candidate, CR845 (difelikefalin), which is designed to selectively target kappa opioid receptors and is currently undergoing Phase III clinical trials for treating moderate-to-severe chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Cara is also advancing Oral KORSUVA, which has completed Phase II trials for pruritus in chronic kidney disease and is in trials for pruritus associated with chronic liver disease and atopic dermatitis. Furthermore, the company is developing CR845/difelikefalin Injection for acute postoperative pain, having completed Phase II/III trials. Cara Therapeutics collaborates with Maruishi Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. and Chong Kun Dang Pharmaceutical Corporation for the development and commercialization of its product candidates in Japan and South Korea, respectively. Founded in 2004, Cara Therapeutics aims to leverage its proprietary drug screening technology to create a pipeline of first-in-class therapeutics.