Mission Bay Capital

QurAlis Corporation is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing therapeutics for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other neurodegenerative diseases. Based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company utilizes proprietary platforms and biomarkers to create precision medicines targeting genetically validated disease-causing alterations. Its pipeline includes various treatments aimed at specific subtypes of ALS, such as therapies designed to restore dysfunctional cellular waste clearance, manage overactive neurons to prevent cell death, and eliminate toxic proteins. QurAlis aims to advance its antisense oligonucleotides and small molecule programs to address the most prevalent forms of ALS, ultimately working to halt disease progression and improve patient outcomes. The company was incorporated in 2016 and operates as a subsidiary of Q-State Biosciences, Inc.

Nitrase Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical platform company focused on developing therapies targeting a newly identified class of enzymes known as Nitrases. Initially concentrating on Parkinson’s disease, the company aims to create drugs that may slow or halt the progression of this and other related neurodegenerative conditions. By leveraging its expertise in nitration, Nitrase Therapeutics seeks to explore the therapeutic potential of biochemical modifications of proteins, particularly through the identification of nitro-substrates and their involvement in various diseases. This approach positions the company to potentially expand its platform to address a broader range of medical conditions in the future.

Nobell Foods is a biotech company based in San Francisco, California, that specializes in developing and producing animal-based food substitutes using plant materials. Founded in 2016, the company aims to transform plants into bioreactors to generate protein, unlocking their potential to create innovative food alternatives. By focusing on plant-based solutions, Nobell Foods seeks to provide sustainable options that can replace traditional animal products, contributing to a more environmentally friendly food system.

Symbiome, Inc. is a skincare company based in San Francisco, California, that develops and sells products formulated with microbiomic and plant-based ingredients. Founded in 2017 and originally named Persona Biome, Inc., the company rebranded to Symbiome in December 2019. Its product line emphasizes the use of scientifically proven ancestral ingredients, aiming to replace modern chemicals and provide customers with organic solutions for skin care. By focusing on clarity, vibrance, and resilience, Symbiome offers a natural approach to skincare that meets diverse customer needs.

Nitrase Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical platform company focused on developing therapies targeting a newly identified class of enzymes known as Nitrases. Initially concentrating on Parkinson’s disease, the company aims to create drugs that may slow or halt the progression of this and other related neurodegenerative conditions. By leveraging its expertise in nitration, Nitrase Therapeutics seeks to explore the therapeutic potential of biochemical modifications of proteins, particularly through the identification of nitro-substrates and their involvement in various diseases. This approach positions the company to potentially expand its platform to address a broader range of medical conditions in the future.

Glycomine, Inc. is a biotech company focused on developing nanomedicines for rare genetic disorders, particularly those related to protein and lipid glycosylation, which can severely impact patients' health. Established in 2014 and located in San Carlos, California, Glycomine aims to address the significant unmet medical need for effective treatments in the realm of rare diseases, where approximately 95% lack any FDA-approved therapies. The company specializes in creating replacement therapies that utilize a combination of substrates, enzymes, and proteins, delivered through bio-nano materials that target specific cells within clinically relevant organs. By innovating in this area, Glycomine seeks to provide new therapeutic options for patients suffering from disorders of metabolism and protein misfolding.

Alector, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel therapies for neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in South San Francisco, California, the company utilizes advanced antibody technology and insights from neuroimmunology and human genetics to create innovative treatments. Alector’s pipeline includes several candidates, such as AL001, which is undergoing phase II clinical trials for frontotemporal dementia, and AL101, currently in phase I trials for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Additionally, AL002 and AL003 are in phase 1b trials for Alzheimer’s disease. The company is actively engaged in research and development, with a total of ten programs at various stages. Alector has formed a strategic collaboration with Adimab, LLC to enhance its antibody research and development capabilities, aiming to efficiently generate and validate antibody drugs that target key disease-related mechanisms.

GraphWear Technologies Inc. is a Philadelphia-based company that specializes in advanced nanotechnology for non-invasive health monitoring. Established in 2015, GraphWear develops a sensing platform that measures vital health indicators, such as glucose and lactic acid levels, from sweat and other bodily fluids. Its innovative patch sensors are designed for real-time monitoring and are particularly beneficial for athletes, enabling them to prevent dehydration and enhance performance. The company is pioneering a no-needle, no-blood approach to health monitoring, which aims to improve the management of chronic diseases like diabetes while also exploring potential applications for heart disease and cancer. Currently, GraphWear is conducting clinical trials to validate its glucose monitoring technology, emphasizing its commitment to providing accessible and accurate health information.

Wildtype is an agtech company based in San Francisco that focuses on creating clean and sustainable seafood through cellular agriculture technologies. The company aims to produce sushi-grade salmon that offers the same nutritional benefits as wild-caught fish while eliminating common contaminants such as mercury, microplastics, antibiotics, and pesticides. By developing alternative sources of seafood, Wildtype seeks to address critical global challenges, including climate change, food security, and health, while also protecting wild species and ocean ecosystems. The company's innovative approach provides consumers with a healthier option for seafood, contributing to a more sustainable food system.

ViewPoint Therapeutics, a biotechnology company founded in 2014 and based in San Francisco, focuses on developing treatments for diseases caused by protein misfolding, particularly cataracts. The company is advancing its research on crystallin stabilizers, which are small molecules designed to prevent and treat age-related cataracts and presbyopia. These stabilizers have shown promise in preclinical models through a systematic screening and optimization process. By targeting protein misfolding, ViewPoint Therapeutics aims to provide effective therapies for common age-related disorders, including cataracts and neurodegenerative diseases, ultimately enhancing treatment options for physicians and their patients.

Pionyr Immunotherapeutics Inc. is a biotechnology company based in San Francisco, California, that focuses on developing innovative cancer immunotherapies. Founded in 2015, the company aims to enhance the body's antitumor immunity by targeting the tumor microenvironment. Utilizing advanced target discovery and antibody generation technologies, Pionyr has created a unique approach called Myeloid Tuning™, which modifies the cellular infiltrate within tumors to improve the immune system's response against cancer. This strategy is intended to be particularly effective when used in conjunction with checkpoint inhibitors, offering new avenues for cancer treatment.

Sound Agriculture Company develops innovative crop protection and enhancement products aimed at improving agricultural yields and farm revenues while addressing challenges such as drought. The company offers Source, a solution that enhances in-season nutrient uptake by unlocking existing nitrogen and phosphorus in the soil, thereby helping growers optimize crop performance sustainably. Additionally, Sound Agriculture focuses on improving photosynthesis, water capture, and crop efficiency, contributing to healthier and more flavorful food while reducing waste. Founded in 2012 and based in Emeryville, California, the company employs molecular discovery and life science approaches to create climate-resilient crops, ultimately enhancing productivity for farmers. Originally known as Asilomar Bio, Inc., it rebranded to Sound Agriculture Company in September 2018.

Vivace Therapeutics, Inc. is a drug discovery and development company focused on creating cancer therapies that target the Hippo pathway, which plays a crucial role in tissue regeneration and organ development. Established in 2014 and located in the San Francisco Bay Area, Vivace Therapeutics employs an innovative approach to develop small molecule treatments aimed at improving patient outcomes in oncology. The company collaborates with leading academic institutions to advance research and develop therapies that can be used alone or in combination with existing treatments. With a commitment to enhancing cancer care, Vivace Therapeutics is dedicated to delivering novel solutions that can help patients combat cancer more effectively.

SiteOne Therapeutics is a San Francisco-based company focused on developing innovative therapeutics and diagnostics for the treatment of acute and chronic pain. The company aims to address the limitations of existing pain management therapies, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioids, by creating safer and more effective alternatives. Their lead candidates are highly selective inhibitors of the voltage-gated sodium ion channel Naᵥ1.7, which is crucial in the generation and conduction of pain signals. By targeting this channel, SiteOne Therapeutics seeks to provide healthcare professionals with advanced treatment options for neuropathic pain, ultimately improving patient outcomes and efficiency in pain management.

Pionyr Immunotherapeutics Inc. is a biotechnology company based in San Francisco, California, that focuses on developing innovative cancer immunotherapies. Founded in 2015, the company aims to enhance the body's antitumor immunity by targeting the tumor microenvironment. Utilizing advanced target discovery and antibody generation technologies, Pionyr has created a unique approach called Myeloid Tuning™, which modifies the cellular infiltrate within tumors to improve the immune system's response against cancer. This strategy is intended to be particularly effective when used in conjunction with checkpoint inhibitors, offering new avenues for cancer treatment.

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.

Tangible Science, LLC is a company focused on enhancing the comfort of contact lens wearers, particularly those suffering from dryness during use. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Redwood City, California, the company has developed a polymer coating technology that creates a bio-compatible, highly hydrated surface on contact lenses. This innovation prevents the disruption of the natural tear film, effectively alleviating symptoms associated with dry eye diseases. By addressing the common issue of lens discomfort, Tangible Science aims to improve the overall experience for contact lens users.

Chrono Therapeutics Inc. is a pharmaceutical company based in Hayward, California, specializing in digital transdermal drug delivery systems. Founded in 2003, the company has developed SmartStop, a digital nicotine replacement therapy that incorporates a wearable device. This innovative solution allows for programmable delivery of nicotine, adjusting timing and dosage to effectively manage withdrawal symptoms and peak addiction triggers. By combining this transdermal therapy with real-time behavioral support, Chrono Therapeutics aims to enhance smoking cessation efforts and improve clinical outcomes for users. The leadership team brings extensive experience in product development, research and development, and a deep understanding of the smoking cessation market, positioning the company to play a significant role in addressing the smoking epidemic.

Cell Design Labs, Inc. is a biotherapeutics company based in San Francisco, California, focused on developing innovative cell-based therapies for cancer and other serious diseases. Established in 2015, the company aims to harness the immune system's capabilities to create advanced treatments that offer improved power, precision, safety, and durability. Cell Design Labs specializes in disruptive T cell receptor therapies, which modify the body's immune cells to specifically recognize and eliminate malignant cells. This approach enables researchers to efficiently develop effective cell-based therapies that address some of the most challenging medical conditions. The company operates as a subsidiary of Gilead Sciences, Inc.

Caribou Biosciences, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Berkeley, California, that specializes in cellular engineering and genome editing solutions using CRISPR technology. Incorporated in 2011, the company has developed a CRISPR-Cas gene editing platform that allows precise modifications to DNA, which is applicable across various fields including human and animal therapeutics, agricultural biotechnology, and industrial biotech. Caribou's innovative approach aims to create transformative therapies, particularly in the development of allogeneic CAR-T and CAR-NK cell therapies, targeting serious diseases. The company focuses on advancing its pipeline of next-generation genome-edited cell therapies while also contributing to basic and applied biological research.

ViewPoint Therapeutics, a biotechnology company founded in 2014 and based in San Francisco, focuses on developing treatments for diseases caused by protein misfolding, particularly cataracts. The company is advancing its research on crystallin stabilizers, which are small molecules designed to prevent and treat age-related cataracts and presbyopia. These stabilizers have shown promise in preclinical models through a systematic screening and optimization process. By targeting protein misfolding, ViewPoint Therapeutics aims to provide effective therapies for common age-related disorders, including cataracts and neurodegenerative diseases, ultimately enhancing treatment options for physicians and their patients.

Alector, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel therapies for neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in South San Francisco, California, the company utilizes advanced antibody technology and insights from neuroimmunology and human genetics to create innovative treatments. Alector’s pipeline includes several candidates, such as AL001, which is undergoing phase II clinical trials for frontotemporal dementia, and AL101, currently in phase I trials for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Additionally, AL002 and AL003 are in phase 1b trials for Alzheimer’s disease. The company is actively engaged in research and development, with a total of ten programs at various stages. Alector has formed a strategic collaboration with Adimab, LLC to enhance its antibody research and development capabilities, aiming to efficiently generate and validate antibody drugs that target key disease-related mechanisms.

eFFECTOR Therapeutics Inc is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Diego, California. Established in 2012, the company specializes in developing selective translation regulators for cancer and other serious diseases. Its innovative approach involves small molecule drugs known as selective translation regulator inhibitors (STRIs), which target the eIF4F complex and its associated kinase, mitogen-activated protein kinase 1/2 (MNK 1/2). This complex plays a crucial role in the translation of specific messenger RNA into proteins linked to cancer progression. eFFECTOR's lead product candidate, tomivosertib, is currently being evaluated in a Phase 2b trial in combination with pembrolizumab for non-small cell lung cancer. Additionally, zotatifin, an inhibitor of eIF4A, is undergoing dose-escalation trials with plans for further expansion. The company also collaborates with Pfizer to develop inhibitors targeting eIF4E. Through these efforts, eFFECTOR aims to address the challenges of tumor growth, survival, and immune evasion in cancer treatment.

Atreca, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in South San Francisco, California, focused on discovering and developing antibody-based immunotherapeutics for various solid tumor types. Its lead product candidate, ATRC-101, is a monoclonal antibody currently in clinical development, characterized by a novel mechanism of action. ATRC-101 has demonstrated reactivity in vitro with a significant majority of human cancer samples, including ovarian, non-small cell lung, colorectal, and breast cancers. Atreca employs a unique technology to identify antibodies produced during immune responses without prior knowledge of antigens. The company collaborates strategically with Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp. to pinpoint antigenic targets of selected antibodies that may have applications in oncology. Founded in 2010, Atreca is dedicated to advancing innovative treatments for cancer.

Alector, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel therapies for neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in South San Francisco, California, the company utilizes advanced antibody technology and insights from neuroimmunology and human genetics to create innovative treatments. Alector’s pipeline includes several candidates, such as AL001, which is undergoing phase II clinical trials for frontotemporal dementia, and AL101, currently in phase I trials for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Additionally, AL002 and AL003 are in phase 1b trials for Alzheimer’s disease. The company is actively engaged in research and development, with a total of ten programs at various stages. Alector has formed a strategic collaboration with Adimab, LLC to enhance its antibody research and development capabilities, aiming to efficiently generate and validate antibody drugs that target key disease-related mechanisms.

SiteOne Therapeutics is a San Francisco-based company focused on developing innovative therapeutics and diagnostics for the treatment of acute and chronic pain. The company aims to address the limitations of existing pain management therapies, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioids, by creating safer and more effective alternatives. Their lead candidates are highly selective inhibitors of the voltage-gated sodium ion channel Naᵥ1.7, which is crucial in the generation and conduction of pain signals. By targeting this channel, SiteOne Therapeutics seeks to provide healthcare professionals with advanced treatment options for neuropathic pain, ultimately improving patient outcomes and efficiency in pain management.

Bolt Threads Inc. is a materials company based in Emeryville, California, founded in 2009. Originally named Refactored Materials, Inc., the company specializes in the manufacture of innovative fibers and fabrics, particularly biofabricated silk fibers known as Microsilk™, which are derived from natural proteins and produced through proprietary technology and bioengineering. Bolt Threads focuses on developing sustainable textile materials for various industries, including apparel, footwear, and beauty brands. Its approach combines biology and fermentation with traditional textile production methods, enabling the transformation of textile waste into high-quality products. Through its cutting-edge technology, Bolt Threads aims to advance the performance and design of textiles while promoting environmental sustainability.

Caribou Biosciences, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Berkeley, California, that specializes in cellular engineering and genome editing solutions using CRISPR technology. Incorporated in 2011, the company has developed a CRISPR-Cas gene editing platform that allows precise modifications to DNA, which is applicable across various fields including human and animal therapeutics, agricultural biotechnology, and industrial biotech. Caribou's innovative approach aims to create transformative therapies, particularly in the development of allogeneic CAR-T and CAR-NK cell therapies, targeting serious diseases. The company focuses on advancing its pipeline of next-generation genome-edited cell therapies while also contributing to basic and applied biological research.

Tangible Science, LLC is a company focused on enhancing the comfort of contact lens wearers, particularly those suffering from dryness during use. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Redwood City, California, the company has developed a polymer coating technology that creates a bio-compatible, highly hydrated surface on contact lenses. This innovation prevents the disruption of the natural tear film, effectively alleviating symptoms associated with dry eye diseases. By addressing the common issue of lens discomfort, Tangible Science aims to improve the overall experience for contact lens users.

Bolt Threads Inc. is a materials company based in Emeryville, California, founded in 2009. Originally named Refactored Materials, Inc., the company specializes in the manufacture of innovative fibers and fabrics, particularly biofabricated silk fibers known as Microsilk™, which are derived from natural proteins and produced through proprietary technology and bioengineering. Bolt Threads focuses on developing sustainable textile materials for various industries, including apparel, footwear, and beauty brands. Its approach combines biology and fermentation with traditional textile production methods, enabling the transformation of textile waste into high-quality products. Through its cutting-edge technology, Bolt Threads aims to advance the performance and design of textiles while promoting environmental sustainability.

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.

Zephyrus Biosciences, Inc. is a life science research tools company based in Berkeley, California, founded in 2013. The company specializes in the development and commercialization of innovative research tools that facilitate protein analysis at the single-cell level. Its flagship product, the scWestern System, allows for western blotting on individual cells, a significant advancement in the field of single-cell analysis. This system employs microfluidics technology to isolate single cells in micro-wells, lysing them and performing SDS-PAGE separation on each lysate. Researchers utilize Zephyrus's tools to explore critical areas such as cancer biology, stem cell research, neurology, and broader human disease studies, ultimately contributing to advancements in diagnostics and therapeutics. As of March 2016, Zephyrus operates as a subsidiary of Bio-Techne Corp.

Principia Biopharma Inc. is a late-stage biopharmaceutical company based in South San Francisco, California, focused on developing innovative therapies for immune-mediated diseases. The company's lead candidate, rilzabrutinib, is an inhibitor currently undergoing Phase III clinical trials for pemphigus and pemphigus foliaceus, as well as Phase 1/2 and Phase 2 trials for immune thrombocytopenia and IgG4-related disease, respectively. Additionally, Principia is advancing PRN2246/SAR442168, aimed at treating multiple sclerosis and other central nervous system disorders, which is in Phase II trials. Another candidate, PRN473, is in Phase I trials for various immune-mediated diseases. Principia Biopharma collaborates with Genzyme Corporation to explore treatments for relapsing and progressive multiple sclerosis, enhancing its commitment to addressing significant unmet medical needs in immunology and oncology. Established in 2008, the company operates as a subsidiary of Sanofi.

Tangible Science, LLC is a company focused on enhancing the comfort of contact lens wearers, particularly those suffering from dryness during use. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Redwood City, California, the company has developed a polymer coating technology that creates a bio-compatible, highly hydrated surface on contact lenses. This innovation prevents the disruption of the natural tear film, effectively alleviating symptoms associated with dry eye diseases. By addressing the common issue of lens discomfort, Tangible Science aims to improve the overall experience for contact lens users.

eFFECTOR Therapeutics Inc is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Diego, California. Established in 2012, the company specializes in developing selective translation regulators for cancer and other serious diseases. Its innovative approach involves small molecule drugs known as selective translation regulator inhibitors (STRIs), which target the eIF4F complex and its associated kinase, mitogen-activated protein kinase 1/2 (MNK 1/2). This complex plays a crucial role in the translation of specific messenger RNA into proteins linked to cancer progression. eFFECTOR's lead product candidate, tomivosertib, is currently being evaluated in a Phase 2b trial in combination with pembrolizumab for non-small cell lung cancer. Additionally, zotatifin, an inhibitor of eIF4A, is undergoing dose-escalation trials with plans for further expansion. The company also collaborates with Pfizer to develop inhibitors targeting eIF4E. Through these efforts, eFFECTOR aims to address the challenges of tumor growth, survival, and immune evasion in cancer treatment.

Principia Biopharma Inc. is a late-stage biopharmaceutical company based in South San Francisco, California, focused on developing innovative therapies for immune-mediated diseases. The company's lead candidate, rilzabrutinib, is an inhibitor currently undergoing Phase III clinical trials for pemphigus and pemphigus foliaceus, as well as Phase 1/2 and Phase 2 trials for immune thrombocytopenia and IgG4-related disease, respectively. Additionally, Principia is advancing PRN2246/SAR442168, aimed at treating multiple sclerosis and other central nervous system disorders, which is in Phase II trials. Another candidate, PRN473, is in Phase I trials for various immune-mediated diseases. Principia Biopharma collaborates with Genzyme Corporation to explore treatments for relapsing and progressive multiple sclerosis, enhancing its commitment to addressing significant unmet medical needs in immunology and oncology. Established in 2008, the company operates as a subsidiary of Sanofi.

Magnamosis develops a medical device designed to create a magnetic compression anastomosis with improved outcomes. Magnamosis' product is an effective alternative to normal surgical staplers, enabling doctors to use them for colorectal and other GI tract.

Calithera Biosciences is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in South San Francisco, California, dedicated to discovering and developing small molecule drugs targeting tumor metabolism and immunology for cancer treatment. The company's lead candidate, CB-839, is a glutaminase inhibitor currently in Phase II clinical trials aimed at treating solid tumors. Additionally, Calithera is advancing INCB001158, an oral arginase inhibitor in Phase I/II trials for hematology and oncology. Other notable projects include CB-280, intended for cystic fibrosis treatment, and CB-708, an inhibitor of CD73. The company has established collaborations, including a license agreement with Mars, Inc. for the development of arginase inhibitors and a clinical trial partnership with Bristol-Myers Squibb to evaluate nivolumab in combination with CB-839. Founded in 2010, Calithera is focused on building a pipeline of innovative cancer therapeutics that address critical pathways necessary for tumor growth and survival.

Redwood Bioscience is focused on advancing biotherapeutics through precision protein-chemical engineering. Founded in 2008 and based in Emeryville, California, the company specializes in site-specific modification technology, which addresses the challenges of conjugating biologics with synthetic molecules. This innovative approach enables the creation of optimized and novel hybrid biotherapeutics, including antibody-drug conjugates and other semi-synthetic products. By combining the binding specificity and extended half-life of biologic carriers with the potency of small molecules and synthetic peptides, Redwood Bioscience aims to enhance therapeutic efficacy.