Lightstone Ventures

Lightstone Ventures, established in 2012, is a global venture capital firm headquartered in Menlo Park, California, with additional offices in Boston, Dublin, and Singapore. The firm specializes in early-stage and late-stage investments in the life science and healthcare sectors, focusing on personalized medicines, targeted therapeutics, medical devices, and novel biopharmaceuticals. Lightstone Ventures supports innovative companies in the United States, Europe, and Australia, seeking to make a significant impact on global health.

Caroline Gaynor

Partner

Jean George

General Partner

Christina Isacson Ph.D

Partner

Brendan Kelly

Vice President

Ken Noonan

CEO, Lightstone Singapore Pte. Ltd

71 past transactions

Atsena Therapeutics

Series C in 2025
Atsena Therapeutics is a clinical-stage gene therapy company dedicated to developing innovative treatments for inherited retinal diseases. The company focuses on therapies for conditions such as X-linked retinoschisis and GUCY2D-associated Leber congenital amaurosis. Utilizing an advanced adeno-associated virus (AAV) technology platform, including a novel spreading capsid, Atsena aims to target specific retinal conditions to prevent blindness resulting from genetic mutations. Their research is centered on providing effective ocular gene therapies that address significant challenges associated with inherited retinal diseases, with the goal of reversing or halting vision loss.

Fire1

Venture Round in 2025
Fire1 is a Dublin-based company dedicated to developing innovative therapeutic devices aimed at enhancing the quality of life for heart failure patients. The company has created a remote monitoring system that delivers real-time patient data and insights to healthcare providers. This technology facilitates the early detection of complications associated with heart failure, allowing for proactive interventions and ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes. Through its focus on remote monitoring, Fire1 seeks to transform the management of heart failure and support better health management for patients.

Cala Health

Series C in 2024
Cala Health, Inc. is a bioelectronic medicine company based in Burlingame, California, founded in 2013. The company specializes in developing wearable neuromodulation therapies aimed at treating chronic diseases. Its flagship product, Cala Trio, is a non-invasive prescription therapy designed to provide transient relief from hand tremors in adults with essential tremor. By integrating advancements in neuroscience and technology, Cala Health focuses on individualized peripheral nerve stimulation to enhance patient outcomes. In addition to its work on essential tremor, the company is also developing therapies for conditions such as Parkinson's disease, as well as exploring applications in psychiatry, cardiology, and autoimmune disorders.

Amber Therapeutics

Series A in 2024
Amber Therapeutics is a biotechnology company that specializes in developing advanced bioelectrical therapies aimed at treating functional disorders of the peripheral nervous system. The company creates a bioelectronic platform that delivers closed-loop bioelectrical treatments, which can sense and adapt to the patient's needs while also providing stimulation. By focusing on conditions such as mixed urinary incontinence, Amber Therapeutics seeks to enhance clinical efficacy and patient outcomes through innovative approaches that emphasize the peripheral nervous system rather than the central nervous system. Its technology has the potential to significantly improve treatment methods and overall patient care in targeted disease areas.

Bonito Biosciences

Seed Round in 2024
Bonito Biosciences is a biotechnology company focused on developing tissue-selective drug delivery systems for oligonucleotides and macromolecules. Their proprietary platform enables cell-specific delivery of RNA degraders, potentially improving the efficacy and safety of therapeutics for patients.

Cerevance

Series B in 2024
Cerevance LLC is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative therapeutics for neurological and psychiatric disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, frontotemporal dementia, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, with a branch in Cambridge, United Kingdom, Cerevance utilizes its NETSseq platform to profile specific brain cell types, including neurons and glial cells, within mature human brain tissue. By leveraging a substantial repository of over 15,000 human brain samples, the company generates extensive expression and epigenetic data, guiding the identification of promising therapeutic targets. This approach aims to address the early onset of central nervous system diseases by revealing critical transcriptional and epigenetic differences within affected brain regions.

Reprieve Cardiovascular

Series A in 2024
Reprieve Cardiovascular, Inc. is a medical device company based in Milford, Massachusetts, established in 2018. The company specializes in developing innovative fluid management technologies aimed at treating congestive heart failure. Its flagship product, the Reprieve technology, offers a solution for clinicians to precisely control the fluid volume in patients suffering from acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF). This ability to manage fluid levels is essential for improving cardiac care and assisting in the decongestion process for these patients. Reprieve Cardiovascular operates as a subsidiary of CardioRenal Systems, Inc.

Nimbus Therapeutics

Private Equity Round in 2023
Nimbus Therapeutics, LLC is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on discovering and developing innovative medicines for serious diseases, including metabolic disorders, cancer, and immune-inflammatory conditions. Founded in 2009, the company utilizes a computational technology-driven approach to advance a pipeline of novel small-molecule therapeutics. Nimbus Therapeutics specializes in designing allosteric inhibitors, notably targeting Acetyl-CoA Carboxylase for conditions such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The company has established strategic partnerships with organizations like Charles River Laboratories and Celgene Corporation to enhance its drug development efforts. In March 2015, Nimbus Discovery rebranded itself as Nimbus Therapeutics to better reflect its transition into a clinical-stage enterprise.

Tagworks Pharmaceuticals

Series A in 2023
Tagworks Pharmaceuticals is a privately held biotech company based in the Netherlands, established in 2011 as a spin-out from Philips Healthcare. The company focuses on developing innovative in vivo chemistry to enhance the effectiveness of cancer therapies and to facilitate novel companion diagnostics. Operating from the Radboud University Medical Center in Nijmegen, Tagworks specializes in antibody-based imaging and therapy technologies. Its proprietary approach allows for the selective chemical manipulation of tagged antibodies in vivo, which improves the efficacy of established methods like radioimmuno-imaging and antibody-drug conjugates. This technology enables medical professionals to conduct imaging with significantly reduced radiation exposure for patients.

Relievant Medsystems

Venture Round in 2023
Relievant Medsystems, Inc. is a medical device company focused on developing innovative solutions for chronic axial low back pain. Founded in 2004 and headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with a development office in Sunnyvale, California, the company has created the Intracept System. This minimally invasive procedure specifically targets the basivertebral nerve, providing relief by blocking pain signal transmission. The Intracept System offers patients a low-risk therapy option aimed at alleviating chronic vertebrogenic low back pain.

Fire1

Venture Round in 2023
Fire1 is a Dublin-based company dedicated to developing innovative therapeutic devices aimed at enhancing the quality of life for heart failure patients. The company has created a remote monitoring system that delivers real-time patient data and insights to healthcare providers. This technology facilitates the early detection of complications associated with heart failure, allowing for proactive interventions and ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes. Through its focus on remote monitoring, Fire1 seeks to transform the management of heart failure and support better health management for patients.

Shoulder Innovations

Series D in 2023
Shoulder Innovations, Inc. is a medical device company based in Holland, Michigan, specializing in orthopedic solutions for shoulder replacement surgery. Founded in 2009, the company has developed an advanced Total Shoulder Replacement System that features innovative inset glenoid fixation technology, addressing the critical issue of glenoid implant stability during shoulder arthroplasty. This technology not only enhances the robustness of the glenoid platform but also simplifies the surgical instrumentation, aiming to reduce operative time and costs. The company's products are marketed through distribution partners in the United States and are designed to improve patient outcomes by minimizing the risk of glenoid loosening, which is a leading cause of revision surgeries. By focusing on reliable fixation and simplified surgical techniques, Shoulder Innovations strives to enhance the efficacy and longevity of shoulder implants while potentially lowering overall healthcare costs.

Cerevance

Series B in 2023
Cerevance LLC is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative therapeutics for neurological and psychiatric disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, frontotemporal dementia, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, with a branch in Cambridge, United Kingdom, Cerevance utilizes its NETSseq platform to profile specific brain cell types, including neurons and glial cells, within mature human brain tissue. By leveraging a substantial repository of over 15,000 human brain samples, the company generates extensive expression and epigenetic data, guiding the identification of promising therapeutic targets. This approach aims to address the early onset of central nervous system diseases by revealing critical transcriptional and epigenetic differences within affected brain regions.

Volta Medical

Series B in 2023
Volta Medical is a technology company based in Marseille, France, founded in 2016, specializing in the development of artificial intelligence software for interventional cardiology. Its primary focus is on providing innovative solutions to assist cardiologists in the treatment of atrial fibrillation, the most common cardiac arrhythmia. The company’s flagship product, AIFib, integrates AI algorithms that analyze electrograms and guides mapping catheters during interventional procedures. This sophisticated software enhances the ability of interventional cardiologists to make informed decisions and carry out patient-specific strategies for cardiac ablation, thereby improving the overall efficacy of heart surgeries. Through its commitment to advancing healthcare technology, Volta Medical aims to transform cardiac care by utilizing cutting-edge AI approaches in therapeutic applications.

Carrick Therapeutics

Series C in 2022
Carrick Therapeutics, Ltd. is a Dublin-based company founded in 2015 that specializes in the development of innovative cancer therapeutics. The company focuses on targeting molecular pathways associated with aggressive and resistant forms of cancer. By employing advanced mechanisms, Carrick Therapeutics aims to transform cancer treatment and improve patient outcomes. Their approach facilitates the early detection of predictive biomarkers, allowing for timely initiation of personalized treatments.

Nimbus Therapeutics

Venture Round in 2022
Nimbus Therapeutics, LLC is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on discovering and developing innovative medicines for serious diseases, including metabolic disorders, cancer, and immune-inflammatory conditions. Founded in 2009, the company utilizes a computational technology-driven approach to advance a pipeline of novel small-molecule therapeutics. Nimbus Therapeutics specializes in designing allosteric inhibitors, notably targeting Acetyl-CoA Carboxylase for conditions such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The company has established strategic partnerships with organizations like Charles River Laboratories and Celgene Corporation to enhance its drug development efforts. In March 2015, Nimbus Discovery rebranded itself as Nimbus Therapeutics to better reflect its transition into a clinical-stage enterprise.

ProVerum

Series A in 2022
ProVerum Medical is a medtech company focused on developing innovative minimally invasive devices for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The company's technology offers a safer and more patient-friendly alternative to traditional BPH treatments, allowing patients to receive care in either a doctor's office or an operating room. ProVerum's device is designed to address the symptoms of prostate enlargement, which can lead to difficulties in urination. By placing the device inside the urethra, it aims to restore normal urinary function, ultimately enabling healthcare providers to deliver effective treatment options for patients suffering from this condition.

Choiceform

Venture Round in 2021
Choiceform is a user experience platform that specializes in online questionnaires, data collection, and analysis. It offers a Software as a Service (SaaS) platform designed to facilitate survey and market research services. By employing an innovative online survey model, Choiceform enables firms to gather comprehensive and accurate data, which supports informed decision-making in various sectors, including market research, consulting, advertising, and marketing. Through its services, the company aims to enhance the quality of data collection and analysis, driving better outcomes for its clients.

Vigil Neuro

Series B in 2021
Vigil Neuroscience Inc is a therapeutics company focused on developing treatments for both rare and common neurodegenerative diseases by targeting microglia, the brain's immune cells. The company aims to restore the vigilance of these cells to improve patient outcomes. Vigil is advancing its lead candidate, a monoclonal antibody TREM2 agonist, through Phase 1 clinical studies, while also working on VG-3927, an orally available small molecule TREM2 agonist. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to build a robust pipeline of therapies supported by the understanding of microglia biology as a critical therapeutic pathway. Vigil's clinical candidate, iluzanebart, is currently undergoing a Phase 2 proof-of-concept trial in patients with ALSP, marking a significant step in the company's commitment to precision-based neuroscience drug development.

WayCool

Series C in 2021
WayCool is an agri-tech company focused on the processing, distribution, and procurement of fresh produce, dairy products, and staples. By utilizing innovative quality management and food safety technology, WayCool enhances farmers' incomes and streamlines logistics and distribution services. The company sources fruits and vegetables primarily from smallholder farmers and aggregators, distributing them to local shops, retail outlets, hotels, restaurants, and catering establishments. WayCool operates a retail brand called SunnyBee in Chennai, which includes physical stores, mobile stores on trucks, and e-commerce platforms. Additionally, SunnyBee offers a range of high-quality private label products developed through partnerships with sister companies. By establishing direct connections between farmers and consumers, WayCool effectively integrates physical and information technology to facilitate efficient distribution of fresh produce.

Cyteir Therapeutics

Series C in 2021
Cyteir Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to developing innovative therapies based on DNA repair biology for cancer treatment and synthetic lethality in autoimmune diseases. Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Lexington, Massachusetts, the company focuses on precision targeting of critical DNA repair factors to induce self-destruction in diseased cells through an overload of DNA damage. Cyteir employs an integrated drug development platform that addresses the imbalance between DNA damage and repair, resulting in a pipeline of small molecule therapeutics aimed at various disease states, including hematological malignancies, solid tumors, and chronic autoimmune disorders. Its lead compound, CYT-0851, is an oral investigational drug designed to inhibit RAD51-mediated homologous recombination, targeting specific vulnerabilities in cancer cells.

Gemini Therapeutics

Post in 2021
Gemini Therapeutics, Inc. is a precision medicine company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, founded in 2015. The company specializes in developing new therapies for patients experiencing dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and related rare genetic diseases. Gemini Therapeutics focuses on genetically defined conditions, creating therapeutic candidates that address molecular abnormalities in patients with significant clinical needs. Their diverse pipeline encompasses monoclonal antibodies, recombinant proteins, and gene therapies, positioning the company to potentially introduce first-in-class therapeutics. The development of these innovative treatment options is supported by collaborations with leading life science investors and academic institutions worldwide, reflecting a commitment to advancing medical care for individuals suffering from these conditions.

Ligature Therapeutics

Seed Round in 2021
Ligature Therapeutics is an early-stage biotechnology company focused on developing small molecule therapeutics that target protein degradation to address intractable diseases. Founded by doctors Alvin Hung, Thomas Keller, and Congbao Kang, the company employs a proprietary Fragment-Based Drug Discovery platform to enhance the efficiency of drug development. This innovative approach allows Ligature Therapeutics to identify and match underutilized, tumor-selective E3 ligases with specific cancer target proteins. By leveraging this technology, the company aims to provide effective treatments for challenging cancers and other difficult-to-treat conditions.

Atsena Therapeutics

Series A in 2020
Atsena Therapeutics is a clinical-stage gene therapy company dedicated to developing innovative treatments for inherited retinal diseases. The company focuses on therapies for conditions such as X-linked retinoschisis and GUCY2D-associated Leber congenital amaurosis. Utilizing an advanced adeno-associated virus (AAV) technology platform, including a novel spreading capsid, Atsena aims to target specific retinal conditions to prevent blindness resulting from genetic mutations. Their research is centered on providing effective ocular gene therapies that address significant challenges associated with inherited retinal diseases, with the goal of reversing or halting vision loss.

Locanabio

Series B in 2020
Locanabio, Inc., based in San Diego, California, is a biotechnology company specializing in RNA-targeted gene therapies. Founded in 2016, the company focuses on developing treatments for severe neurodegenerative, neuromuscular, and retinal diseases. Locanabio's platform is designed to modify disease-causing RNA, offering therapeutic candidates distinct from traditional DNA-targeted approaches. The company aims to address a spectrum of underserved diseases, including those affecting the nervous system, muscles, and eyes.

Tallac Therapeutics

Series A in 2020
Tallac Therapeutics, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative immunotherapies for cancer patients. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Burlingame, California, the company specializes in creating conjugates of antibodies combined with potent toll-like receptor agonists. This approach aims to activate both innate and adaptive immunity, enabling targeted immune responses against various solid tumor malignancies. Through its advanced therapies, Tallac Therapeutics seeks to enhance the immune system's ability to combat cancer more effectively.

Catamaran Bio

Series A in 2020
Catamaran Bio, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing allogeneic CAR-NK immune cell therapies for the treatment of solid tumors and other cancers. Founded in 2019 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company utilizes its Tailwind platform to engineer, expand, and process natural killer (NK) cells into off-the-shelf CAR-NK cell therapy products. By leveraging genetic engineering, Catamaran Bio aims to address significant unmet medical needs in cancer treatment, providing transformative therapies for patients.

Shoulder Innovations

Venture Round in 2020
Shoulder Innovations, Inc. is a medical device company based in Holland, Michigan, specializing in orthopedic solutions for shoulder replacement surgery. Founded in 2009, the company has developed an advanced Total Shoulder Replacement System that features innovative inset glenoid fixation technology, addressing the critical issue of glenoid implant stability during shoulder arthroplasty. This technology not only enhances the robustness of the glenoid platform but also simplifies the surgical instrumentation, aiming to reduce operative time and costs. The company's products are marketed through distribution partners in the United States and are designed to improve patient outcomes by minimizing the risk of glenoid loosening, which is a leading cause of revision surgeries. By focusing on reliable fixation and simplified surgical techniques, Shoulder Innovations strives to enhance the efficacy and longevity of shoulder implants while potentially lowering overall healthcare costs.

Relievant Medsystems

Venture Round in 2020
Relievant Medsystems, Inc. is a medical device company focused on developing innovative solutions for chronic axial low back pain. Founded in 2004 and headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with a development office in Sunnyvale, California, the company has created the Intracept System. This minimally invasive procedure specifically targets the basivertebral nerve, providing relief by blocking pain signal transmission. The Intracept System offers patients a low-risk therapy option aimed at alleviating chronic vertebrogenic low back pain.

Alchemab Therapeutics

Series A in 2020
Alchemab Therapeutics Ltd is a biotechnology company based in London, United Kingdom, focusing on the discovery and development of novel therapeutics aimed at patients with hard-to-treat diseases. Established in 2019 by Uri Laserson and Jane Osbourn, the company utilizes a transformative approach to identify drug targets and build a pipeline of antibody therapeutics. Alchemab's strategy involves harnessing naturally protective antibodies through an unbiased and function-first methodology that employs complementary processes and technologies. This innovative approach aims to provide treatments for various challenging conditions, including hard-to-treat cancers, neurodegenerative disorders, and infectious diseases.

Willow

Series C in 2020
Willow Inc., established in 2014 and headquartered in Mountain View, California, specializes in the manufacture of wearable breast pumps for women. The company offers a range of products including milk bags, accessories such as flanges and tubes, and replacement parts. Willow's flagship product is an in-bra wearable breast pump designed to provide mothers with mobility and hands-free convenience during breastfeeding. The company also provides pumping bras, cases, and other breastfeeding essentials.

Cerevance

Series B in 2020
Cerevance LLC is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative therapeutics for neurological and psychiatric disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, frontotemporal dementia, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, with a branch in Cambridge, United Kingdom, Cerevance utilizes its NETSseq platform to profile specific brain cell types, including neurons and glial cells, within mature human brain tissue. By leveraging a substantial repository of over 15,000 human brain samples, the company generates extensive expression and epigenetic data, guiding the identification of promising therapeutic targets. This approach aims to address the early onset of central nervous system diseases by revealing critical transcriptional and epigenetic differences within affected brain regions.

Ummeed Housing Finance

Series D in 2020
Ummeed Housing Finance Private Limited is a housing finance company based in Gurugram, India, established in 2016. The company specializes in providing home loans and loans against property specifically tailored for lower and middle-income families in India, many of whom have limited access to organized financial services. By focusing on customers with informal incomes, Ummeed Housing Finance aims to bridge the gap in affordable housing finance. Its services include home loans, loans for construction, home renovation, and insurance options, all designed to enhance operational efficiency and reduce turnaround times. The company leverages technology to deliver personalized and accessible financial solutions, thereby supporting the aspirations of low and middle-income households in securing affordable housing.

ALX Oncology

Series C in 2020
ALX Oncology is a clinical-stage immuno-oncology company based in Burlingame, California, established in 2015. The company specializes in developing innovative therapies aimed at treating various forms of cancer, with a particular focus on its lead product candidate, ALX148. This therapeutic agent is designed to block the CD47 protein, which cancer cells exploit to evade the immune system. ALX148 is currently being investigated for its efficacy in treating myelodysplastic syndromes, acute myeloid leukemia, and several solid tumor types, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and certain gastric cancers. The company leverages advanced protein engineering technologies to enhance the affinity of its CD47 blockers, aiming to minimize hematologic toxicities often associated with existing treatments. ALX Oncology's commitment to improving cancer therapies is rooted in pioneering research conducted by its founders at Stanford University.

Willow

Series C in 2019
Willow Inc., established in 2014 and headquartered in Mountain View, California, specializes in the manufacture of wearable breast pumps for women. The company offers a range of products including milk bags, accessories such as flanges and tubes, and replacement parts. Willow's flagship product is an in-bra wearable breast pump designed to provide mothers with mobility and hands-free convenience during breastfeeding. The company also provides pumping bras, cases, and other breastfeeding essentials.

Cyteir Therapeutics

Series B in 2019
Cyteir Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to developing innovative therapies based on DNA repair biology for cancer treatment and synthetic lethality in autoimmune diseases. Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Lexington, Massachusetts, the company focuses on precision targeting of critical DNA repair factors to induce self-destruction in diseased cells through an overload of DNA damage. Cyteir employs an integrated drug development platform that addresses the imbalance between DNA damage and repair, resulting in a pipeline of small molecule therapeutics aimed at various disease states, including hematological malignancies, solid tumors, and chronic autoimmune disorders. Its lead compound, CYT-0851, is an oral investigational drug designed to inhibit RAD51-mediated homologous recombination, targeting specific vulnerabilities in cancer cells.

Bold Penguin

Series B in 2019
Bold Penguin is a commercial insurance exchange that connects customers, agents, and carriers to match the right quote in record time. With a heavy focus on the agents, Bold Penguin pushes the boundaries of user experience for businesses, an easy tool for agents, and a streamlined process of underwriting for carriers. The company operates an Exchange which utilizes a set of solutions to identify, triage, quote, and bind commercial insurance in a highly efficient and tech-enabled way. It plans to deliver on the platform enhancements which include more flexibility in how the core technology is leveraged by enterprise customers, expanding in excess and surplus lines. The Company offers a streamlined process of underwriting for carriers in commercial property and casualty insurance services. Bold Penguin was founded in 2016 and is headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, USA.

Locanabio

Series A in 2019
Locanabio, Inc., based in San Diego, California, is a biotechnology company specializing in RNA-targeted gene therapies. Founded in 2016, the company focuses on developing treatments for severe neurodegenerative, neuromuscular, and retinal diseases. Locanabio's platform is designed to modify disease-causing RNA, offering therapeutic candidates distinct from traditional DNA-targeted approaches. The company aims to address a spectrum of underserved diseases, including those affecting the nervous system, muscles, and eyes.

Cala Health

Series C in 2019
Cala Health, Inc. is a bioelectronic medicine company based in Burlingame, California, founded in 2013. The company specializes in developing wearable neuromodulation therapies aimed at treating chronic diseases. Its flagship product, Cala Trio, is a non-invasive prescription therapy designed to provide transient relief from hand tremors in adults with essential tremor. By integrating advancements in neuroscience and technology, Cala Health focuses on individualized peripheral nerve stimulation to enhance patient outcomes. In addition to its work on essential tremor, the company is also developing therapies for conditions such as Parkinson's disease, as well as exploring applications in psychiatry, cardiology, and autoimmune disorders.

Nuvaira

Series E in 2019
Nuvaira, Inc. is a medical device company based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, focused on developing innovative treatments for obstructive lung diseases, particularly chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Founded in 2008, Nuvaira specializes in a novel catheter-based Lung Denervation System that aims to address airway nerve hyperactivity by targeting the parasympathetic innervation of the lungs. This minimally invasive procedure is designed to improve lung function, enhance exercise capacity, and elevate the quality of life for patients suffering from chronic respiratory conditions. With a commitment to advancing treatment options, Nuvaira seeks to reduce the clinical consequences associated with neural hyperactivity in conditions such as COPD and asthma.

Allay Therapeutics

Series B in 2019
Allay Therapeutics is focused on developing innovative solutions for post-surgical pain management, aiming to enhance patient recovery experiences. The company utilizes a proprietary technology platform that integrates validated non-opioid analgesics with biopolymers to create dissolvable therapeutics. These products are designed to deliver targeted pain relief over extended periods, significantly surpassing the duration of existing pain treatments. Allay's lead investigational product, ATX101, is currently undergoing evaluation in a Phase 2 clinical study for total knee arthroplasty surgeries. With a diverse team of entrepreneurs, scientists, and clinicians based in the San Francisco Bay Area and Singapore, Allay Therapeutics seeks to address the limitations of conventional pain management approaches, particularly the challenges associated with opioid use.

EarLens

Series D in 2018
EarLens is a privately held medical technology company focused on enhancing the hearing experience for individuals with hearing loss. The firm has pioneered the Earlens Contact Hearing Solution, a groundbreaking device that directly activates the natural hearing process. This innovative system utilizes low-frequency radio signals and a small lens placed on the eardrum to vibrate it, allowing for superior sound quality and a broader bandwidth than traditional hearing aids. Unlike conventional devices that amplify sound, the Earlens solution delivers sound directly to the eardrum, thereby minimizing feedback and ensuring clear hearing in various environments. The second generation of this technology received FDA clearance in 2019, marking a significant advancement in the standard of care for hearing performance.

Relievant Medsystems

Series E in 2018
Relievant Medsystems, Inc. is a medical device company focused on developing innovative solutions for chronic axial low back pain. Founded in 2004 and headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with a development office in Sunnyvale, California, the company has created the Intracept System. This minimally invasive procedure specifically targets the basivertebral nerve, providing relief by blocking pain signal transmission. The Intracept System offers patients a low-risk therapy option aimed at alleviating chronic vertebrogenic low back pain.

Nimbus Therapeutics

Series C in 2018
Nimbus Therapeutics, LLC is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on discovering and developing innovative medicines for serious diseases, including metabolic disorders, cancer, and immune-inflammatory conditions. Founded in 2009, the company utilizes a computational technology-driven approach to advance a pipeline of novel small-molecule therapeutics. Nimbus Therapeutics specializes in designing allosteric inhibitors, notably targeting Acetyl-CoA Carboxylase for conditions such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The company has established strategic partnerships with organizations like Charles River Laboratories and Celgene Corporation to enhance its drug development efforts. In March 2015, Nimbus Discovery rebranded itself as Nimbus Therapeutics to better reflect its transition into a clinical-stage enterprise.

Medisix Therapeutics

Series A in 2018
Medisix Therapeutics, established in 2016 and headquartered in Singapore, is an early-stage biotechnology company specializing in cell therapy. It focuses on developing chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies to target and treat T-cell lymphomas and leukemias. The company's technology platform is built upon the pioneering work of Professor Dario Campana, MD, PhD, a renowned expert in translational immunology and the founder of CAR-T cell biology. Medisix's proprietary immune engineering approaches enable the targeting of T cell leukemias and lymphomas using cell therapy.

Cyteir Therapeutics

Series B in 2018
Cyteir Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to developing innovative therapies based on DNA repair biology for cancer treatment and synthetic lethality in autoimmune diseases. Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Lexington, Massachusetts, the company focuses on precision targeting of critical DNA repair factors to induce self-destruction in diseased cells through an overload of DNA damage. Cyteir employs an integrated drug development platform that addresses the imbalance between DNA damage and repair, resulting in a pipeline of small molecule therapeutics aimed at various disease states, including hematological malignancies, solid tumors, and chronic autoimmune disorders. Its lead compound, CYT-0851, is an oral investigational drug designed to inhibit RAD51-mediated homologous recombination, targeting specific vulnerabilities in cancer cells.

Fire1

Series C in 2018
Fire1 is a Dublin-based company dedicated to developing innovative therapeutic devices aimed at enhancing the quality of life for heart failure patients. The company has created a remote monitoring system that delivers real-time patient data and insights to healthcare providers. This technology facilitates the early detection of complications associated with heart failure, allowing for proactive interventions and ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes. Through its focus on remote monitoring, Fire1 seeks to transform the management of heart failure and support better health management for patients.

Claret Medical

Series C in 2017
Claret Medical, Inc. is a cardiovascular medical device company based in Santa Rosa, California, focused on developing cerebral vascular protection systems for transcatheter aortic valve implantation and other endovascular procedures. The company's flagship product, the Claret Medical Sentinel Cerebral Protection System, is a percutaneously delivered embolic protection device designed to capture and remove debris dislodged during these procedures, thereby reducing the risk of stroke. Additionally, Claret Medical offers small 6 French catheters that are inserted through an artery into the patient's right arm, guiding the system to the heart and effectively safeguarding the brain from embolic material during interventional procedures. Incorporated in 2009, Claret Medical aims to enhance patient safety and outcomes by preventing the entry of thrombus and debris into the cerebral vascular system during various cardiovascular interventions.

Gemini Therapeutics

Series A in 2017
Gemini Therapeutics, Inc. is a precision medicine company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, founded in 2015. The company specializes in developing new therapies for patients experiencing dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and related rare genetic diseases. Gemini Therapeutics focuses on genetically defined conditions, creating therapeutic candidates that address molecular abnormalities in patients with significant clinical needs. Their diverse pipeline encompasses monoclonal antibodies, recombinant proteins, and gene therapies, positioning the company to potentially introduce first-in-class therapeutics. The development of these innovative treatment options is supported by collaborations with leading life science investors and academic institutions worldwide, reflecting a commitment to advancing medical care for individuals suffering from these conditions.

Disarm Therapeutics

Series A in 2017
Disarm Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company founded in 2016 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The company focuses on developing disease-modifying therapeutics aimed at treating neurological diseases characterized by axonal degeneration. Its innovative drugs are designed to prevent the loss of axons, offering potential treatments for conditions such as multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, glaucoma, and peripheral neuropathies. Disarm Therapeutics aims to provide effective therapies for patients suffering from 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.

EarLens

Series C in 2017
EarLens is a privately held medical technology company focused on enhancing the hearing experience for individuals with hearing loss. The firm has pioneered the Earlens Contact Hearing Solution, a groundbreaking device that directly activates the natural hearing process. This innovative system utilizes low-frequency radio signals and a small lens placed on the eardrum to vibrate it, allowing for superior sound quality and a broader bandwidth than traditional hearing aids. Unlike conventional devices that amplify sound, the Earlens solution delivers sound directly to the eardrum, thereby minimizing feedback and ensuring clear hearing in various environments. The second generation of this technology received FDA clearance in 2019, marking a significant advancement in the standard of care for hearing performance.

Cerevance

Series A in 2017
Cerevance LLC is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative therapeutics for neurological and psychiatric disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, frontotemporal dementia, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, with a branch in Cambridge, United Kingdom, Cerevance utilizes its NETSseq platform to profile specific brain cell types, including neurons and glial cells, within mature human brain tissue. By leveraging a substantial repository of over 15,000 human brain samples, the company generates extensive expression and epigenetic data, guiding the identification of promising therapeutic targets. This approach aims to address the early onset of central nervous system diseases by revealing critical transcriptional and epigenetic differences within affected brain regions.

ALX Oncology

Convertible Note in 2017
ALX Oncology is a clinical-stage immuno-oncology company based in Burlingame, California, established in 2015. The company specializes in developing innovative therapies aimed at treating various forms of cancer, with a particular focus on its lead product candidate, ALX148. This therapeutic agent is designed to block the CD47 protein, which cancer cells exploit to evade the immune system. ALX148 is currently being investigated for its efficacy in treating myelodysplastic syndromes, acute myeloid leukemia, and several solid tumor types, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and certain gastric cancers. The company leverages advanced protein engineering technologies to enhance the affinity of its CD47 blockers, aiming to minimize hematologic toxicities often associated with existing treatments. ALX Oncology's commitment to improving cancer therapies is rooted in pioneering research conducted by its founders at Stanford University.

Allay Therapeutics

Series A in 2017
Allay Therapeutics is focused on developing innovative solutions for post-surgical pain management, aiming to enhance patient recovery experiences. The company utilizes a proprietary technology platform that integrates validated non-opioid analgesics with biopolymers to create dissolvable therapeutics. These products are designed to deliver targeted pain relief over extended periods, significantly surpassing the duration of existing pain treatments. Allay's lead investigational product, ATX101, is currently undergoing evaluation in a Phase 2 clinical study for total knee arthroplasty surgeries. With a diverse team of entrepreneurs, scientists, and clinicians based in the San Francisco Bay Area and Singapore, Allay Therapeutics seeks to address the limitations of conventional pain management approaches, particularly the challenges associated with opioid use.

Cerevance

Series A in 2016
Cerevance LLC is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative therapeutics for neurological and psychiatric disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, frontotemporal dementia, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, with a branch in Cambridge, United Kingdom, Cerevance utilizes its NETSseq platform to profile specific brain cell types, including neurons and glial cells, within mature human brain tissue. By leveraging a substantial repository of over 15,000 human brain samples, the company generates extensive expression and epigenetic data, guiding the identification of promising therapeutic targets. This approach aims to address the early onset of central nervous system diseases by revealing critical transcriptional and epigenetic differences within affected brain regions.

Carrick Therapeutics

Series A in 2016
Carrick Therapeutics, Ltd. is a Dublin-based company founded in 2015 that specializes in the development of innovative cancer therapeutics. The company focuses on targeting molecular pathways associated with aggressive and resistant forms of cancer. By employing advanced mechanisms, Carrick Therapeutics aims to transform cancer treatment and improve patient outcomes. Their approach facilitates the early detection of predictive biomarkers, allowing for timely initiation of personalized treatments.

EarLens

Series C in 2016
EarLens is a privately held medical technology company focused on enhancing the hearing experience for individuals with hearing loss. The firm has pioneered the Earlens Contact Hearing Solution, a groundbreaking device that directly activates the natural hearing process. This innovative system utilizes low-frequency radio signals and a small lens placed on the eardrum to vibrate it, allowing for superior sound quality and a broader bandwidth than traditional hearing aids. Unlike conventional devices that amplify sound, the Earlens solution delivers sound directly to the eardrum, thereby minimizing feedback and ensuring clear hearing in various environments. The second generation of this technology received FDA clearance in 2019, marking a significant advancement in the standard of care for hearing performance.

Gemini Therapeutics

Seed Round in 2016
Gemini Therapeutics, Inc. is a precision medicine company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, founded in 2015. The company specializes in developing new therapies for patients experiencing dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and related rare genetic diseases. Gemini Therapeutics focuses on genetically defined conditions, creating therapeutic candidates that address molecular abnormalities in patients with significant clinical needs. Their diverse pipeline encompasses monoclonal antibodies, recombinant proteins, and gene therapies, positioning the company to potentially introduce first-in-class therapeutics. The development of these innovative treatment options is supported by collaborations with leading life science investors and academic institutions worldwide, reflecting a commitment to advancing medical care for individuals suffering from these conditions.

Fire1

Series B in 2016
Fire1 is a Dublin-based company dedicated to developing innovative therapeutic devices aimed at enhancing the quality of life for heart failure patients. The company has created a remote monitoring system that delivers real-time patient data and insights to healthcare providers. This technology facilitates the early detection of complications associated with heart failure, allowing for proactive interventions and ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes. Through its focus on remote monitoring, Fire1 seeks to transform the management of heart failure and support better health management for patients.

Tizona Therapeutics

Series B in 2016
Tizona Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing immunotherapies for cancer and autoimmune diseases. Founded in 2014 and based in South San Francisco, California, the company is engaged in creating innovative treatments that target immunosuppressive cells and mechanisms within the tumor microenvironment. Its product pipeline includes an Anti-CCR4 antibody for cancer therapy, as well as IL-35 antagonists and agonists aimed at addressing both cancer and autoimmune conditions. Tizona is also collaborating with its scientific founders to investigate the role of regulatory T cells in various tumors, enhancing the understanding of their contribution to immunosuppression. This research aims to differentiate the company’s approach and improve patient outcomes by facilitating complete and lasting remissions.

Cala Health

Series B in 2016
Cala Health, Inc. is a bioelectronic medicine company based in Burlingame, California, founded in 2013. The company specializes in developing wearable neuromodulation therapies aimed at treating chronic diseases. Its flagship product, Cala Trio, is a non-invasive prescription therapy designed to provide transient relief from hand tremors in adults with essential tremor. By integrating advancements in neuroscience and technology, Cala Health focuses on individualized peripheral nerve stimulation to enhance patient outcomes. In addition to its work on essential tremor, the company is also developing therapies for conditions such as Parkinson's disease, as well as exploring applications in psychiatry, cardiology, and autoimmune disorders.

Elcelyx Therapeutics

Series E in 2015
Elcelyx Therapeutics, founded in 2010 and headquartered in San Diego, California, focuses on developing innovative treatments for diabetes and obesity-related metabolic disorders through its proprietary Gut Sensory Modulation (GSM) technology. The company's lead product candidate, NewMet, is designed to improve glucose metabolism by amplifying hormone release in the lower gut, thereby addressing significant unmet needs in the oral anti-diabetic market. Currently entering Phase 2b development, NewMet represents a potential breakthrough in diabetes management. Elcelyx also offers Lovidia, which targets similar metabolic issues without causing systemic side effects. The company is supported by a skilled management team, experienced investors, and a network of scientists and clinicians. In 2013, Elcelyx established NaZura BioHealth Inc. to focus on developing additional non-NewMet assets, further expanding its research and product pipeline.

Ra Pharmaceuticals

Series B in 2015
Ra Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on developing therapeutics for diseases linked to the excessive activation of the complement system. Utilizing a peptide chemistry platform, the company produces synthetic macrocyclic peptides that offer the specificity and diversity of antibodies alongside the pharmacological advantages of small molecules. Its lead product candidate, Zilucoplan, is an injectable treatment that has completed Phase II clinical trials for generalized myasthenia gravis and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, as well as a Phase Ib trial for patients with renal impairment. In addition to Zilucoplan, Ra Pharmaceuticals is advancing pre-clinical programs targeting Factor D inhibition for C3 glomerulonephritis and dense deposit disease, among other conditions. The company has also established a collaboration with Merck & Co., Inc. to explore orally available cyclic peptides for cardiovascular targets. Founded in 2008, Ra Pharmaceuticals operates as a subsidiary of UCB SA.

Nimbus Therapeutics

Series B in 2015
Nimbus Therapeutics, LLC is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on discovering and developing innovative medicines for serious diseases, including metabolic disorders, cancer, and immune-inflammatory conditions. Founded in 2009, the company utilizes a computational technology-driven approach to advance a pipeline of novel small-molecule therapeutics. Nimbus Therapeutics specializes in designing allosteric inhibitors, notably targeting Acetyl-CoA Carboxylase for conditions such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The company has established strategic partnerships with organizations like Charles River Laboratories and Celgene Corporation to enhance its drug development efforts. In March 2015, Nimbus Discovery rebranded itself as Nimbus Therapeutics to better reflect its transition into a clinical-stage enterprise.

Nimbus Therapeutics

Series B in 2015
Nimbus Therapeutics, LLC is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on discovering and developing innovative medicines for serious diseases, including metabolic disorders, cancer, and immune-inflammatory conditions. Founded in 2009, the company utilizes a computational technology-driven approach to advance a pipeline of novel small-molecule therapeutics. Nimbus Therapeutics specializes in designing allosteric inhibitors, notably targeting Acetyl-CoA Carboxylase for conditions such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The company has established strategic partnerships with organizations like Charles River Laboratories and Celgene Corporation to enhance its drug development efforts. In March 2015, Nimbus Discovery rebranded itself as Nimbus Therapeutics to better reflect its transition into a clinical-stage enterprise.

ALX Oncology

Series A in 2015
ALX Oncology is a clinical-stage immuno-oncology company based in Burlingame, California, established in 2015. The company specializes in developing innovative therapies aimed at treating various forms of cancer, with a particular focus on its lead product candidate, ALX148. This therapeutic agent is designed to block the CD47 protein, which cancer cells exploit to evade the immune system. ALX148 is currently being investigated for its efficacy in treating myelodysplastic syndromes, acute myeloid leukemia, and several solid tumor types, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and certain gastric cancers. The company leverages advanced protein engineering technologies to enhance the affinity of its CD47 blockers, aiming to minimize hematologic toxicities often associated with existing treatments. ALX Oncology's commitment to improving cancer therapies is rooted in pioneering research conducted by its founders at Stanford University.

Flex Pharma

Venture Round in 2014
Flex Pharma, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing and commercializing innovative treatments for muscle cramps, spasms, and spasticity related to neurological conditions and exercise-associated muscle cramps. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, the company operates in two segments: Consumer Operations and Drug Development. Its lead drug candidate, FLX-787, is a dual transient receptor potential V1/A1 ion channel activator that has completed an exploratory Phase II clinical trial in Australia for patients with multiple sclerosis. Additionally, Flex Pharma offers HOTSHOT, a consumer beverage designed to prevent and treat exercise-associated muscle cramps, which is marketed through its direct-to-consumer website and third-party platforms. In 2019, Flex Pharma was acquired by Salarius Pharmaceuticals, marking a significant shift in its operational structure.

Claret Medical

Series B in 2014
Claret Medical, Inc. is a cardiovascular medical device company based in Santa Rosa, California, focused on developing cerebral vascular protection systems for transcatheter aortic valve implantation and other endovascular procedures. The company's flagship product, the Claret Medical Sentinel Cerebral Protection System, is a percutaneously delivered embolic protection device designed to capture and remove debris dislodged during these procedures, thereby reducing the risk of stroke. Additionally, Claret Medical offers small 6 French catheters that are inserted through an artery into the patient's right arm, guiding the system to the heart and effectively safeguarding the brain from embolic material during interventional procedures. Incorporated in 2009, Claret Medical aims to enhance patient safety and outcomes by preventing the entry of thrombus and debris into the cerebral vascular system during various cardiovascular interventions.

EarLens

Series B in 2014
EarLens is a privately held medical technology company focused on enhancing the hearing experience for individuals with hearing loss. The firm has pioneered the Earlens Contact Hearing Solution, a groundbreaking device that directly activates the natural hearing process. This innovative system utilizes low-frequency radio signals and a small lens placed on the eardrum to vibrate it, allowing for superior sound quality and a broader bandwidth than traditional hearing aids. Unlike conventional devices that amplify sound, the Earlens solution delivers sound directly to the eardrum, thereby minimizing feedback and ensuring clear hearing in various environments. The second generation of this technology received FDA clearance in 2019, marking a significant advancement in the standard of care for hearing performance.

Fire1

Series A in 2014
Fire1 is a Dublin-based company dedicated to developing innovative therapeutic devices aimed at enhancing the quality of life for heart failure patients. The company has created a remote monitoring system that delivers real-time patient data and insights to healthcare providers. This technology facilitates the early detection of complications associated with heart failure, allowing for proactive interventions and ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes. Through its focus on remote monitoring, Fire1 seeks to transform the management of heart failure and support better health management for patients.

Astria Therapeutics

Series B in 2013
Astria Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, dedicated to developing innovative therapies for patients affected by rare allergic and immunological diseases. The company focuses on creating life-changing treatments, with its lead program, STAR-0215, being a monoclonal antibody designed to inhibit plasma kallikrein, currently in preclinical development for hereditary angioedema. Additionally, Astria is advancing STAR-0310, another monoclonal antibody, which targets the OX40 receptor and is also in preclinical development for atopic dermatitis, a condition characterized by impaired skin barrier function and significant itching. Through its targeted approach, Astria Therapeutics aims to address unmet medical needs in the field of immunology.
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