The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency established in 1950 and based in Alexandria, Virginia. It is dedicated to supporting research and education in science and engineering across a wide range of disciplines. The NSF provides significant non-dilutive funding, up to $1.5 million, to startups and small businesses through its America's Seed Fund initiative, which is part of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program mandated by Congress. With an operating budget of approximately $7.8 billion, the NSF is committed to advancing fundamental research and education, thus fostering innovation and technological development in the United States.
Amphix Bio is engaged in the development of advanced therapeutic materials aimed at regenerative medicine. The company specializes in creating nanofiber materials that replicate the structure and dynamic characteristics of human tissues. By integrating biological signals, these materials instruct cells to activate regenerative processes. Amphix Bio's innovations enable the development of therapies designed to repair a variety of tissues, including bone, cartilage, muscle, cardiovascular tissues, and the brain and spinal cord. The promising results observed in both preclinical and clinical trials highlight the potential of Amphix Bio's approach in transforming therapeutic applications in medicine.
Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine
Grant in 2024
The Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine (WFIRM) is a leader in translating scientific discovery into clinical therapies. Physicians and scientists at WFIRM were the first in the world to engineer laboratory-grown organs that were successfully implanted into humans. Today, this interdisciplinary team is working to engineer more than 30 different replacement tissues and organs and to develop healing cell therapies-all with the goal to cure, rather than merely treat, disease.
LiteraSeed
Grant in 2024
LiteraSeed operates a clinically validated digital health platform designed to enhance communication between healthcare providers and low health literate patient populations. The platform addresses significant challenges faced by public health providers, particularly in serving patients who may not speak English or have other communication barriers. By enabling these individuals to accurately and remotely self-report symptoms, LiteraSeed aims to prevent costly misdiagnoses, adverse events, and unnecessary emergency room admissions. This approach not only improves access to care for disadvantaged patients but also makes clinical encounters more productive, fostering better understanding of health status and overall patient outcomes.
Amplified Sciences
Grant in 2024
Amplified Sciences LLC is a molecular diagnostics company focused on the early detection of debilitating diseases, particularly pancreatic cancer and kidney disease. Utilizing an ultra-sensitive molecular sensing technology licensed from Purdue University, the company’s platform can detect disease markers at the single molecule level, enabling accurate diagnosis from bodily fluids such as urine and saliva. This versatile technology is designed for scalability to point-of-care applications, allowing for effective disease screening with a favorable cost structure. Amplified Sciences has developed a working prototype and has published proof of concept data, positioning itself to meet significant unmet medical needs in diagnostics. Founded in 2016 and based in West Lafayette, Indiana, the company was previously known as Nutrabiotix.
MelliCell
Grant in 2024
MelliCell is focused on combating chronic diseases through innovative tissue engineering technology, specifically targeting fat cells as a source of therapeutic adipokines. Their platform enables the conversion of human stem cells into large, mature fat cells, which can be used to develop drug therapies aimed at reducing fat mass while preserving lean mass. This unique approach is designed to address conditions such as obesity, diabetes, aging, oncology, and inflammation. MelliCell's team has garnered recognition through awards and partnerships with leading biopharma companies, validating their technology. By advancing oral small molecules that shrink fat cells, MelliCell aims to enhance health outcomes and improve the quality of life for individuals affected by these diseases.
Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine
Grant in 2024
The Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine (WFIRM) is a leader in translating scientific discovery into clinical therapies. Physicians and scientists at WFIRM were the first in the world to engineer laboratory-grown organs that were successfully implanted into humans. Today, this interdisciplinary team is working to engineer more than 30 different replacement tissues and organs and to develop healing cell therapies-all with the goal to cure, rather than merely treat, disease.
CenSyn
Grant in 2023
CenSyn is a brain health screening platform focused on enhancing the accessibility and efficiency of diagnosing various neurological conditions. The company has developed a handheld EEG monitoring device aimed at accelerating the screening process for Alzheimer's, traumatic brain injury, and epilepsy. Their proprietary software facilitates long-term management of brain health by allowing clinicians to wirelessly monitor and record brain electrical activity in real time. This innovative approach enables the rapid detection of altered mental status, supporting timely diagnosis and immediate treatment, ultimately reducing inpatient costs and improving care for diverse patient populations.
CerFlux
Grant in 2023
CerFlux specializes in personalized medicine technology designed to enhance cancer treatment by matching patients with the most effective therapies for their specific tumors. The company's innovative tests identify the most efficient and effective treatment options for individual patients, allowing healthcare practitioners to distinguish optimal therapies from less effective ones. This approach aims to improve patient outcomes and quality of life while minimizing the time, pain, and costs associated with cancer treatment. By focusing on personalized treatment efficacy, CerFlux contributes to a more tailored and effective healthcare experience for those battling cancer.
Case Western Reserve University
Grant in 2023
Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) is a private research university located in Cleveland's University Circle. Established in 1843, it comprises various schools including Medicine, Law, Engineering, Arts and Sciences, Nursing, Social Sciences, Dental Medicine, Management, and Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences. CWRU is renowned for its biomedical discoveries, medical education, and top-ranked programs such as international law, health law, and intellectual property law. It offers practical experiences like real-client work and full-time practice experiences to students across various disciplines. The university is accredited by several professional associations and holds membership in the Association of American Universities.
Metfora
Grant in 2023
Metfora is focused on developing a blood test designed to identify chronic lung and heart disorders, as well as cancers, in their early stages. The company employs artificial intelligence to analyze patterns in circulating metabolites within a patient's blood, enabling the detection of diseases that may not present significant symptoms initially. This innovative approach aims to assist both doctors and patients by providing timely insights for diagnosing serious health conditions, ultimately enhancing early intervention and treatment options.
CoraVie Medical
Grant in 2022
CoraVie Medical is an early-stage medical device startup focused on revolutionizing blood pressure monitoring for patients with uncontrolled hypertension, who are at heightened risk for serious health issues such as kidney failure, stroke, and heart failure. The company has developed an innovative implantable continuous blood pressure monitoring solution that offers early and accurate detection of harmful blood pressure levels, providing advanced notice of changes in health status. This device connects patients and clinicians through a cloud-based software and analytics platform, facilitating timely and cost-effective clinical interventions aimed at preventing hypertension crises. By delivering actionable insights, CoraVie Medical's solution aims to improve patient outcomes and promote better management of blood pressure levels.
CPR Therapeutics
Grant in 2022
CPR Therapeutics is a medical device company focused on developing an advanced automated system for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). This next-generation technology integrates multiple innovations into a single, easy-to-use system designed for emergency situations. The automated CPR system enhances blood flow and the effectiveness of electrical countershocks, achieving results that were previously only possible in laboratory environments. By combining chest compressions with artificial ventilation, the system aims to preserve brain function and restore spontaneous blood circulation and breathing in individuals experiencing cardiac arrest. This technology represents a significant advancement in emergency medical care, with the potential to improve survival rates in critical situations.
Senseer
Grant in 2022
Senseer Health, founded in 2017, focuses on addressing the chronic disease market by developing Smart Medical Device Therapies for managing various chronic conditions, which affect a significant portion of older adults. The company's innovations began with patented microsensors that monitor implantable devices for patients with hydrocephalus, renal, and cardiovascular diseases. To enhance the effectiveness of these microsensor-enabled devices, Senseer has incorporated advanced wearable and ambient sensor technologies. The integration of these multi-modal sensor technologies with an IoT software platform allows for the utilization of proprietary data sets and predictive analytics. This comprehensive approach provides healthcare providers with tools for remote monitoring and timely interventions, ultimately aiming to improve the quality of life for individuals with chronic conditions while reducing costs and enhancing patient safety.
Claria Medical
Grant in 2022
Claria Medical is a pre-commercial medical device start-up focused on developing innovative solutions for women's healthcare, specifically targeting unmet needs in gynecologic surgery. The company specializes in creating minimally invasive surgical tools designed to enhance procedures such as hysterectomy and myomectomy. Claria Medical has received recognition for its early achievements, including a “Safer Technologies Designation” from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Additionally, the company has secured funding through private investments as well as grants from the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health to support its product development efforts. By providing specialized surgical assistance, Claria Medical aims to improve outcomes for women undergoing these procedures.
Oxalo Therapeutics
Grant in 2022
Oxalo Therapeutics is focused on developing innovative drug therapies aimed at treating rare kidney diseases and preventing recurring kidney stones. The company specifically targets primary hyperoxaluria and other oxalate-related pathologies through a novel approach that utilizes a gut bacterium to facilitate the safe removal of oxalate from the body. By mimicking natural mechanisms, Oxalo Therapeutics seeks to provide effective treatment options for patients suffering from conditions associated with high levels of oxalate, thereby improving their quality of life and reducing the incidence of kidney stone recurrence. The company's expertise in the microbiome and translational research underpins its commitment to advancing early-stage technology in the field of kidney health.
Simmbion
Grant in 2022
Simmbion specializes in innovative therapeutic solutions by utilizing symbionts to manufacture therapeutic agents directly within the human body, effectively transforming it into a living pharmacy. This technology aims to eliminate the challenges associated with traditional therapy manufacturing, such as the need for complex production processes, repeated injections, and temperature-sensitive storage. By providing a single injection that lasts up to 12 weeks, Simmbion's approach addresses supply chain disruptions and enhances affordability and accessibility of cell therapies for diverse patient populations. Their adaptable and universally immune compatible systems focus on delivering biological drugs directly in vivo, supporting a patient-centric and outcome-driven healthcare model while minimizing the risks of infections and immune rejection.
Creative BioTherapeutics
Grant in 2022
Creative BioTherapeutics is a biotechnology company dedicated to developing innovative therapies for cancer and viral diseases. The company aims to transform cancer and viral disease research by targeting the fundamental issues of immune evasion and drug resistance. With a focus on recurrent and drug-resistant cancers, Creative BioTherapeutics is creating first-in-class biologics designed to address critical needs in treatment, particularly for patients with recurrent metastatic breast cancer. This approach not only seeks to enhance tumor regression but also holds the potential for cures in both adult and childhood cancers, thereby improving treatment options for patients facing these challenging conditions.
Iaso Therapeutics
Grant in 2022
Iaso Therapeutics, founded in 2018 and based in East Lansing, Michigan, is a biotechnology company focused on developing vaccines aimed at improving human health and treating infectious diseases. The company’s platform is dedicated to creating vaccines for serious illnesses, including smallpox, yellow fever, and tetanus. By providing healthcare professionals with innovative technologies, Iaso Therapeutics seeks to enhance public health outcomes and address critical health challenges.
Lura Health
Grant in 2022
Lura Health has developed a groundbreaking non-invasive health monitoring platform that utilizes saliva as a diagnostic fluid, aiming to enhance clinical outcomes in chronic disease management. Founded in 2017 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company targets various chronic disease markets, including heart disease, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and tooth decay. Its innovative sensors are integrated into patient-friendly orthodontic devices such as removable retainers and fixed braces. These sensors continuously measure analytes in saliva and automatically transmit data to a smartphone application, allowing users to track key diagnostic metrics related to their oral health. By enabling individuals to monitor their health in real-time, Lura Health seeks to improve personal health management and empower users to take charge of their well-being.
Amphix Bio
Grant in 2022
Amphix Bio is engaged in the development of advanced therapeutic materials aimed at regenerative medicine. The company specializes in creating nanofiber materials that replicate the structure and dynamic characteristics of human tissues. By integrating biological signals, these materials instruct cells to activate regenerative processes. Amphix Bio's innovations enable the development of therapies designed to repair a variety of tissues, including bone, cartilage, muscle, cardiovascular tissues, and the brain and spinal cord. The promising results observed in both preclinical and clinical trials highlight the potential of Amphix Bio's approach in transforming therapeutic applications in medicine.
Visicell Medical
Grant in 2022
Visicell Medical is a company focused on developing innovative medical imaging technology that enhances the early detection and diagnosis of diseases. It specializes in creating safe and biodegradable stem cell tracking tools, which facilitate real-time monitoring of stem cells implanted in patients. These tools are designed for use in both clinical and pre-clinical settings, allowing healthcare professionals to track stem cell progress effectively. In addition to stem cell tracking, Visicell Medical offers specialized image capture systems and analysis tools that provide high-resolution, three-dimensional views of tissues and cells. This technology aids in the identification of abnormalities, enabling earlier intervention and improved treatment outcomes for patients, while also aiming to reduce overall healthcare costs.
Cytocybernetics
Grant in 2022
Cytocybernetics is a biotechnology company that specializes in cellular electrophysiology. The company has developed the Cybercyte, a user-friendly plug-and-play dynamic clamp system designed for ease of use in research settings. In addition to its innovative products, Cytocybernetics offers a comprehensive range of contract research organization (CRO) services, which include FDA-mandated drug safety screening, custom electrophysiology, custom modeling, and custom analysis. These services are aimed at assisting clients in the development and evaluation of various cellular products, ensuring that they meet regulatory requirements and scientific standards.
InvVax
Grant in 2022
InvVax, Inc. is a vaccine development company based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 2012. The company focuses on creating innovative vaccines, with its primary product being a universal influenza vaccine aimed at preventing pandemics. Utilizing a proprietary platform, InvVax's technology analyzes influenza proteins to address virus mutations, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of vaccines. In addition to its work on influenza, InvVax is exploring vaccine candidates for other viral infections, including HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C.
Nostopharma
Grant in 2022
Nostopharma specializes in developing treatments for pathologic bone growth, aiming to prevent rare bone diseases and minimize complications from traumatic injuries. The company offers a nanoparticle drug delivery system that addresses soft tissue trauma complications, facilitating the formation of new bone after surgeries, burns, and other traumatic incidents. By enhancing the recovery process, Nostopharma's innovative approach supports healthcare providers in improving clinical outcomes for patients undergoing surgical procedures related to post-traumatic injuries. Additionally, the company's efforts contribute to reducing rehabilitation costs for society.
Isolere Bio
Grant in 2022
Isolere Bio is a biotechnology company dedicated to simplifying the purification of biotherapeutics, particularly monoclonal antibodies and Adeno-Associated Viruses (AAV). Co-founded with the aim of enhancing global access to essential drugs, Isolere Bio develops innovative manufacturing technologies that utilize a straightforward Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF) setup. This approach facilitates a seamless transition from laboratory-scale processes to large-scale industrial production, thereby improving efficiency within the bioprocessing industry. As monoclonal antibodies continue to gain prominence as effective therapeutics and important research tools, Isolere Bio's work plays a crucial role in advancing the development of new diagnostics and treatments.
Oncurie
Grant in 2022
Oncurie specializes in developing targeted radionuclide therapies aimed at treating metastatic cancer. The company employs innovative molecular radionuclide technology to deliver radionuclides selectively to metastatic tissues, enhancing treatment efficacy. By focusing on this advanced therapeutic approach, Oncurie seeks to provide healthcare providers with the tools needed to effectively cure patients suffering from breast cancer and other metastatic conditions.
MBF Therapeutics
Grant in 2021
MBF Therapeutics, Inc. is a veterinary oncology company that specializes in developing and commercializing innovative therapies for cancer treatment in dogs and cats. The company's product portfolio features targeted immunotherapies and small molecule drugs designed to disrupt tumor cell metabolism while sparing healthy tissues. Key products include MBFT-101, a combination therapy for sarcomas and lymphoma that utilizes a proprietary polyamine transport inhibitor alongside a potent inhibitor of ornithine decarboxylase, and MBFT-102, an immunotherapy based on the tumor suppressor/cytokine mda-7/IL24, which has shown promise in human clinical trials for various advanced cancers. Additionally, MBF Therapeutics is advancing a gene-based vaccine platform aimed at improving treatments for both cancer and infectious diseases in animals, with the potential to transform veterinary medicine. The company is located in Ambler, Pennsylvania, and maintains a strategic partnership with the Lankenau Institute for Medical Research.
Astek Diagnostics
Grant in 2021
Astek Diagnostics is focused on developing a precision diagnostic platform that assists physicians in prescribing appropriate antibiotics for patients suffering from bacterial sepsis within one hour. The company’s technology utilizes a single-use cartridge to rapidly detect bacterial infections in urine by measuring the oxygen consumption of various bacterial species. This innovative approach not only speeds up the identification process but also aids in combating antibiotic resistance through effective susceptibility testing.
Vulcan Biologics
Grant in 2021
Vulcan Biologics is a biotechnology company based in Irvine, California, established in 2019. It specializes in the modulation of the microbiome through the use of bacteriophages, which are viruses that specifically infect bacteria without harming human cells. This innovative platform aims to achieve stable and persistent changes in the gut microbiome, facilitating the treatment of gluten-related disorders such as gluten sensitivity and celiac disease. By altering the composition of gut bacteria, Vulcan Biologics enables healthcare providers to offer targeted therapeutic solutions for individuals affected by these conditions.
BioSapien
Grant in 2021
BioSapien is a pre-clinical biotechnology company focused on creating innovative biodegradable implantable products for oncology applications. The company is developing a 3D-printed drug delivery platform that utilizes a biodegradable mesh to deliver active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) directly to tumor sites, thereby minimizing systemic side effects associated with traditional therapies. Their flagship product, the MediChip, is designed to administer FDA-approved high-dose systemic therapies in a localized and sustained manner, enhancing the quality of patient care. Current research is focused on applications for pancreatic and lung cancers, with plans to expand the pipeline to include other types such as colorectal, breast, and stomach cancers. By targeting drug delivery directly to cancerous tissues, BioSapien aims to improve treatment efficacy while reducing toxicity for patients.
Aspero Medical
Grant in 2021
Aspero Medical, Inc. is a medical device manufacturer based in Boulder, Colorado, established in 2018. The company specializes in gastrointestinal balloon endoscopy procedures, offering a product known as the AP Balloon Overtube. This innovative device utilizes pillar micro-texture technology to improve the performance of endoscopic procedures by enhancing mucosal wall traction and anchoring consistency within the gastrointestinal tract. By optimizing these aspects, Aspero Medical aims to reduce procedure time and sedation requirements, ultimately improving patient outcomes and providing cost-effective solutions for healthcare providers.
Clairways
Grant in 2021
Clairways specializes in smart lung monitoring technology designed for pharmaceutical clinical trials. The company develops a wearable digital lung monitor that captures critical respiratory metrics for individuals suffering from conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cystic fibrosis (CF). Fitted to the body, this device employs acoustic sensors and machine learning technology to detect and characterize various respiratory metrics. The collected data is presented in an accessible format, allowing healthcare providers to easily monitor and assess patients' respiratory health over the long term.
xMD Diagnostics
Grant in 2021
xMD Diagnostics, based in Annapolis, Maryland, specializes in biotechnology within the healthcare sector. The company develops molecular diagnostics tools that use high-throughput microdissection technology to improve cancer diagnosis and management. These tools are designed to isolate, procure, and enrich cells of interest from biopsy and other specimen samples. This process facilitates various downstream analyses, including PCR, genomic or proteomic testing, and next-generation sequencing. By enhancing the capabilities of clinical and research laboratories, xMD Diagnostics supports pathologists, oncologists, and other healthcare professionals in diagnosing, monitoring, and treating patients with cancer and serious genetic diseases.
SpineX
Grant in 2021
SpineX Inc. is a seed-stage medical device company focused on developing non-invasive neuromodulation devices aimed at addressing unmet medical needs in patients with neurological conditions. The company is engaged in clinical trials to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of its neuromodulation therapy specifically for individuals suffering from neurogenic bladder issues related to stroke, spinal cord injuries, or multiple sclerosis. SpineX's technologies are designed to enhance recovery and restore various functions, including bladder, bowel, respiration, sexual, and sensorimotor capabilities. One of its key products, the SCiP device, targets neurological dysfunction associated with conditions like cerebral palsy. By leveraging rigorously tested neuromodulation methods, SpineX aims to improve the quality of life for individuals affected by these debilitating conditions.
Niche Biomedical
Grant in 2021
Niche Biomedical is a platform and therapy development firm that specializes in creating innovative solutions for chronic injuries and disorders that have not responded to traditional pharmacological treatments. The company has developed ANEUVO®, which focuses on addressing these challenging medical conditions. Among its notable innovations is ExaStim®, a non-invasive neuromodulation system that has received FDA Breakthrough Device Designation for the treatment of spinal cord injuries. Additionally, Niche Biomedical is advancing a gastrointestinal therapeutic device aimed at alleviating postoperative ileus and restoring gastrointestinal motility. This device leverages bioelectronic medicine to revolutionize treatment options for various diseases and injuries that are difficult to manage with conventional pharmaceuticals. The company is also capable of developing miniaturized implantable devices that maintain sophisticated functionality, allowing for targeted neuromodulation therapies.
TheraCea Pharma
Grant in 2021
TheraCea Pharma is a biotechnology company based in Tucson that focuses on developing precision medicine for individuals with neurological disorders. As a spin-off from the University of Arizona, the company has developed and licensed advanced radiochemistry technology that enables efficient and rapid fluorine-18 radiolabeling of biomolecules. This innovative approach supports both clinical and research applications, particularly in the context of neurological conditions. TheraCea Pharma's treatments aim to counteract dyskinesia, a side effect commonly associated with L-dopa, the standard treatment for Parkinson's disease. By providing new diagnostic agents, the company enhances medical professionals' capabilities in detecting not only neurological disorders but also cancer, thereby contributing to improved healthcare outcomes.
Frontier Bio
Grant in 2021
Frontier Bio Corporation, based in Oakland, California, develops and manufactures advanced bioprinting technologies to create lab-grown human tissues. Established in 2018, the company offers the FLUX-1, a 3D bioprinter that integrates conventional bioprinting methods with electro-hydrodynamic printing capabilities. This technology enables the production of complex tissues, such as skin, cartilage, and bone, while also facilitating drug toxicity testing, tissue implants, drug screening, and disease modeling. Frontier Bio aims to replace animal studies with ethically developed human tissues, ultimately working towards eliminating the organ transplant waitlist and improving patient outcomes. The company focuses on achieving complete cell survivability during the printing process, ensuring the viability of the printed tissues for various medical applications.
ZelosDx
Grant in 2021
ZelosDx specializes in the development of blood testing products aimed at advancing research in brain health and diseases. The company provides researchers with access to proprietary technology that can be licensed and adapted for blood testing kits and automated laboratory equipment. Additionally, it offers pharmaceutical collaborators biomarker technology to support drug discovery efforts. By delivering critical data for diagnosis, monitoring, and evaluating therapeutic responses, ZelosDx facilitates significant advancements in the understanding and treatment of brain-related conditions.
Ancilia Bio
Grant in 2021
Ancilia Biosciences focuses on developing engineered bacterial therapies aimed at treating diseases associated with the microbiome. The company specializes in creating virus-resistant live bacterial products that modulate the human microbiome, specifically targeting the viral components within the gut microbiome. By concentrating on healthy gut bacteria and their predatory phages, Ancilia engineers resistant bacterial strains to combat diseases. Its innovative approach includes the development of a new class of live biotherapeutics that allows medical professionals to target specific phages or viruses that induce lysis, with applications in immunology and oncology.
Paramita Therapeutics
Grant in 2021
Paramita Therapeutics is a biotech company established in 2018 and based in San Diego, California. The company is dedicated to developing innovative therapeutics for cancer and infectious diseases. It specializes in efficiently transitioning new therapeutics into clinical settings using a patented, multifunctional chemical platform. This approach allows Paramita Therapeutics to create multivalent drug conjugates derived from recognized and approved molecules with established safety and toxicology profiles. By leveraging its expertise, the company aims to provide patients with access to effective cancer treatments and dual-function therapeutic and vaccine products.
ALSUS MEDICAL
Grant in 2021
ALSUS MEDICAL offers treatment for urinary stream problems that may be weak or stop and start. In some cases, it can lead to infection, bladder stones, and reduced kidney function. They offer treatments that include medication that relaxes or shrinks the prostate, surgery, and minimally invasive surgery.
Cordance Medical
Grant in 2021
Cordance Medical is a medical device company focused on developing innovative therapies for central nervous system (CNS) pathologies, including primary and metastatic cancers, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. The company has created a non-invasive ultrasound system that precisely opens the blood-brain barrier, allowing for targeted delivery of systemically administered drugs to specific brain regions. This low-power ultrasound technology aims to enhance diagnostic and therapeutic options for patients, providing a safe and effective means to address complex neurological conditions.
LiteraSeed
Grant in 2021
LiteraSeed operates a clinically validated digital health platform designed to enhance communication between healthcare providers and low health literate patient populations. The platform addresses significant challenges faced by public health providers, particularly in serving patients who may not speak English or have other communication barriers. By enabling these individuals to accurately and remotely self-report symptoms, LiteraSeed aims to prevent costly misdiagnoses, adverse events, and unnecessary emergency room admissions. This approach not only improves access to care for disadvantaged patients but also makes clinical encounters more productive, fostering better understanding of health status and overall patient outcomes.
Avior Bio
Grant in 2021
Avior Bio is a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative treatments for neurological conditions and pruritus in patients with liver disease. The company utilizes its proprietary Speedit™ Transmucosal Film Technology, which allows for effective drug delivery by bypassing first-pass metabolism and minimizing the production of glucuronide metabolites excreted by the kidneys. This technology aims to provide significant relief from various symptoms, including insomnia, anxiety, depression, and excoriation. With a strong management team, an experienced advisory board, and dedicated scientists, Avior Bio is well-positioned to deliver safe and effective therapeutic solutions to improve patient outcomes.
Verantos
Grant in 2021
Verantos is the market leader in high-validity real-world evidence for life sciences. By incorporating robust clinical narrative data, artificial intelligence technology, and measured validity, Verantos is the first company to generate research-grade evidence at scale across all therapeutic areas. The Verantos Evidence Platform integrates heterogeneous real-world data sources and generates evidence with the accuracy necessary for market access, HEOR, medical affairs, and regulatory use.
Gate Scientific
Grant in 2021
Gate Scientific makes products that enable great research and improve healthcare decisions by bringing to market intuitive solutions that simplify complex problems. By bringing to market intuitive solutions that simplify complex problems, they allow for the latest technologies to benefit more people.
Precision Theranostics
Grant in 2021
Precision Theranostics is a biotechnology company based in Baltimore, Maryland, founded in 2019. The company focuses on developing prognosis-based intervention strategies aimed at the early detection and treatment of fatal diseases. Its innovative platform is designed to estimate disease progression, particularly for respiratory diseases and age-related disorders. By creating novel diagnostics, therapeutics, and prognosis-based therapies, Precision Theranostics enables healthcare providers to deliver timely diagnoses and interventions, ultimately improving survival rates and preventing the progression of chronic and fatal conditions.
Cobio Diagnostics
Grant in 2021
Cobio Diagnostics is a biotechnology company based in Golden, Colorado, founded in 2016. The company specializes in developing diagnostics aimed at rapid bacterial identification and phenotypic antibiotic resistance testing. Utilizing a phage-based immunoassay, Cobio Diagnostics' technology can identify specific bacterial species and determine the most effective antibiotic treatment in under five hours. This innovative approach provides a faster and more targeted alternative to traditional diagnostic methods, allowing healthcare providers to make quicker and more informed decisions regarding antibiotic treatment for patients with bacterial infections.
VeriSIM Life
Grant in 2021
VeriSIM Life, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in San Francisco, California, established in 2017. It specializes in developing disease-specific biosimulation models that utilize artificial intelligence to predict the clinical outcomes of new drugs prior to clinical trials. The company offers a range of tailored solutions designed for pre-clinical and clinical programs, all centered around its validated BIOiSIM platform, which accommodates small molecules, large molecules, and viruses. By replacing traditional animal testing with sophisticated software simulations, VeriSIM Life aims to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of drug development, ultimately contributing to increased human life expectancy and the personalization of healthcare treatments.
Spero Therapeutics
Grant in 2021
Spero Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, dedicated to developing innovative treatments for multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacterial infections and rare diseases. Founded in 2013, the company is advancing several product candidates, including tebipenem pivoxil hydrobromide, an oral carbapenem-class antibiotic aimed at treating MDR gram-negative infections in adults. Additionally, Spero is developing SPR206, an intravenous agent for MDR gram-negative infections in hospital settings, and SPR720, an oral antibiotic targeting pulmonary non-tuberculous mycobacterial disease. The company collaborates with various partners, including Meiji Seika Pharma to support tebipenem HBr's development and the Bill & Melinda Gates Medical Research Institute for SPR720. Spero Therapeutics employs a focused approach to drug development, emphasizing novel mechanisms to address the urgent need for effective therapeutics against serious bacterial infections.
Progenitor MDX
Grant in 2021
Progenitor MDX is engaged in developing cellular immunotherapy technologies that facilitate the creation of induced pluripotent stem cells for use in immune-oncology and engineered cell therapies. The company combines all Yamanaka factors into a single vector, enabling simple and reliable cellular reprogramming. This innovation supports the efficient production of allogeneic off-the-shelf CAR constructs derived from various cell sources. In addition to its focus on cellular immunotherapy, Progenitor MDX offers a comprehensive and customizable solution for managing COVID-19 infections, which includes providing testing results and actionable plans for infection management to support community health.
Akanocure Pharmaceuticals
Grant in 2021
Akanocure Pharmaceuticals is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative anti-cancer chemotherapeutic drugs aimed at treating various forms of cancer. The company is dedicated to finding therapeutic approaches that effectively block the metastatic processes responsible for 90% of cancer-related deaths. By harnessing the expertise of its team throughout the drug discovery and development phases, Akanocure aims to create novel small molecules derived from natural resources. These bio-targeted therapeutics are designed not only to combat cancer but also to alleviate the side effects associated with chemotherapy and other cancer treatments, ultimately improving the quality of life for patients.
BioAesthetics
Grant in 2021
BioAesthetics LLC, founded in 2015 as a spin-out from Tulane University, is focused on developing innovative reconstruction options for breast cancer patients following mastectomies. The company specializes in a tissue-engineered nipple-areolar complex (NAC) that serves as an acellular graft to be used by plastic and reconstructive surgeons during the breast reconstruction phase. This product allows the patient's own cells to integrate with the graft, facilitating the regeneration of a natural nipple and areola. Currently in the pre-clinical phase, this patent-pending technology aims to provide a more effective and aesthetically pleasing solution for patients who have experienced incomplete or removed NACs due to illness, surgery, or congenital conditions. BioAesthetics is headquartered in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.
Vaxess Technologies
Grant in 2021
Vaxess Technologies, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Boston, Massachusetts, founded in 2011. The company focuses on developing and commercializing innovative silk biomaterial technologies. Its key product, the MIMIX microneedle platform, facilitates the transdermal delivery of vaccines and therapeutics. This sustained release patch technology allows for a controlled release of vaccines, mimicking the natural infection process to enhance immune response and effectiveness. Vaxess's patch is engineered for stability, eliminating the need for refrigeration, which enables shipping and application in low-resource settings. In addition to its vaccine delivery systems, Vaxess is also engaged in creating novel therapies aimed at oncology care and infectious diseases, ultimately striving to improve patient outcomes with reduced treatment burdens.
BiomeSense
Grant in 2021
BiomeSense, Inc. is a company that specializes in developing an integrated platform combining hardware, software, and data analytics to enhance the collection and analysis of microbiome data in clinical research. Founded in 2018 and based in Chicago, Illinois, BiomeSense has created the GutLab, an innovative "smart bathroom" system designed for continuous, at-home monitoring of the human gut microbiome. This technology, along with the MetaBiome time-series analytics platform, provides a comprehensive solution that enables researchers, patients, and consumers to track microbiome changes in real time and understand their impact on health outcomes. By generating and analyzing large-scale, longitudinal microbiome datasets, BiomeSense aims to discover and commercialize novel microbiome biomarkers, ultimately improving precision medicine and the development of microbiome-based therapeutics and products.
Creative BioTherapeutics
Grant in 2021
Creative BioTherapeutics is a biotechnology company dedicated to developing innovative therapies for cancer and viral diseases. The company aims to transform cancer and viral disease research by targeting the fundamental issues of immune evasion and drug resistance. With a focus on recurrent and drug-resistant cancers, Creative BioTherapeutics is creating first-in-class biologics designed to address critical needs in treatment, particularly for patients with recurrent metastatic breast cancer. This approach not only seeks to enhance tumor regression but also holds the potential for cures in both adult and childhood cancers, thereby improving treatment options for patients facing these challenging conditions.
TEGA Therapeutics
Grant in 2020
TEGA Therapeutics, Inc. is focused on developing glycoscience-related technologies aimed at treating life-threatening diseases. Founded in 2013 and based in La Jolla, California, the company specializes in enhancing the delivery of enzyme replacement therapies to the brain, particularly for lysosomal storage disorders. By leveraging glycoside-enhanced delivery methods, TEGA addresses significant challenges in reaching the central nervous system, thereby improving treatment outcomes. Additionally, the company produces bio-engineered heparan sulfate and heparin, which play crucial roles in various physiological processes. TEGA's mission is to improve the quality of life for patients by providing innovative solutions for unmet medical needs, utilizing rigorous scientific methods to advance the therapeutic potential of glycans in medicine.
Claria Medical
Grant in 2020
Claria Medical is a pre-commercial medical device start-up focused on developing innovative solutions for women's healthcare, specifically targeting unmet needs in gynecologic surgery. The company specializes in creating minimally invasive surgical tools designed to enhance procedures such as hysterectomy and myomectomy. Claria Medical has received recognition for its early achievements, including a “Safer Technologies Designation” from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Additionally, the company has secured funding through private investments as well as grants from the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health to support its product development efforts. By providing specialized surgical assistance, Claria Medical aims to improve outcomes for women undergoing these procedures.
Ionica Sciences
Grant in 2020
Ionica Sciences, Inc. is focused on developing a spectroscopy-based diagnostic platform that utilizes surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) technology. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Ithaca, New York, the company aims to address urgent needs in clinical diagnostics by enabling rapid and accurate identification of vector-borne, sexually transmitted, and neurological diseases. Ionica Sciences is particularly dedicated to creating in-vitro diagnostic assays for Lyme disease and other infectious conditions, allowing medical professionals to detect biologically relevant targets such as pathogens and hormones. By improving diagnostic accuracy, the company seeks to reduce patient suffering, minimize unnecessary antibiotic use, and lower healthcare costs associated with misdiagnoses.
Omnicyte
Grant in 2020
Omnicyte is a biotechnology company focused on developing targeted treatments for cancer therapy. It utilizes a proprietary Immuno-Oncology Platform Technology to create recombinant targeted immunomodulators aimed at addressing unmet medical needs in oncology. The company is actively working on treatments for various cancer indications, including ovarian cancer and small cell lung cancer. By advancing its innovative platform, Omnicyte aims to enhance patient outcomes and improve quality of life for individuals affected by these challenging diseases.
Plexision
Grant in 2020
Plexision develops cellular biomarkers for personalized diagnosis and drug development in solid organ transplantation, and immunological disorders. Plexision's first patented product, the PleximmuneTM assay, predicts the risk of transplant rejection. The test is based on patent-pending technology to measure antigen-specific white blood cells. Testing services for transplant recipients and drug developers are provided at Plexision’s CLIA-certified, central laboratory in Pittsburgh. Plexision currently offers cell-based testing for personalized assessment of rejection risk after solid organ transplantation The Pleximmune blood test is the first such test offered for children with liver or intestine transplantation.
Forcast Orthopedics
Grant in 2020
Forcast Orthopedics specializes in treating periprosthetic joint infections, a complication following joint replacement surgery. The company offers a unique, automated platform that delivers targeted antibiotic therapy, improving patient outcomes, reducing costs, and minimizing morbidity compared to traditional treatments.
Dascena
Grant in 2020
Dascena, Inc. is a healthcare technology company based in Oakland, California, that specializes in developing machine learning algorithms aimed at enhancing patient care and early disease intervention. Founded in 2018, Dascena focuses on creating algorithmic software that processes electronic health record data to predict critical conditions such as acute decompensation, sepsis, and acute kidney injury. By leveraging extensive clinical research, the company provides tools that support clinical decision-making, facilitate point-of-care diagnostics, and serve as biopharma companion diagnostics. Dascena's innovations address significant unmet healthcare needs, ultimately aiming to improve care outcomes and save lives through timely and accurate interventions.
Inherent Biosciences
Grant in 2020
Inherent Biosciences is a molecular diagnostics company focused on transforming the trial and error approach in medicine by leveraging insights from epigenetics. The company aims to provide clarity on complex health issues by identifying dysregulation across multiple genes and pathways, which informs personalized treatment strategies. Inherent Biosciences develops innovative therapies for a range of conditions, including pain, infertility, embryo quality, autism, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, fetal heart disease, and COVID-19. By translating biological discoveries into actionable insights, the company seeks to enhance patient care and improve outcomes in various medical fields.
Lura Health
Grant in 2020
Lura Health has developed a groundbreaking non-invasive health monitoring platform that utilizes saliva as a diagnostic fluid, aiming to enhance clinical outcomes in chronic disease management. Founded in 2017 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company targets various chronic disease markets, including heart disease, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and tooth decay. Its innovative sensors are integrated into patient-friendly orthodontic devices such as removable retainers and fixed braces. These sensors continuously measure analytes in saliva and automatically transmit data to a smartphone application, allowing users to track key diagnostic metrics related to their oral health. By enabling individuals to monitor their health in real-time, Lura Health seeks to improve personal health management and empower users to take charge of their well-being.
Radiologics
Grant in 2020
Radiologics specializes in clinical research and medical imaging, offering software and clinical trial services. The company has developed a clinical trial software platform that facilitates image data management for clinical trials. This platform includes features such as file transfer and verification, integration with clinical data, automation of image processing routines, and connectivity solutions. By providing these tools, Radiologics supports health professionals in enhancing clinical research and improving diagnostic processes.
Prime Labs
Grant in 2020
Prime Labs is a company focused on enhancing drug discovery through its cloud-based software platform, which specializes in mass spectrometry data processing, analysis, reporting, and visualization. The software is designed to support a variety of instruments and workflows, enabling scientists to conduct experiments with greater accuracy and efficiency. By streamlining the data processing experience, Prime Labs offers a user-friendly solution that minimizes the complexity typically associated with such tasks, allowing researchers to focus on their work with minimal training or installation requirements. This innovative approach facilitates a broader range of experiments in a shorter time frame, ultimately contributing to advancements in medical research and drug development.
Vitanova Biomedical
Grant in 2020
Vitanova Biomedical is an early-stage biotechnology company based in Kerrville, Texas, dedicated to developing innovative cancer therapies that utilize Light-Activated Intracellular Acidosis (LAIA). Founded in 2015 by Matt Gdovin and Greg Espenhover, the company aims to enhance the quality of life for cancer patients and healthcare professionals by providing effective treatments that minimize side effects. Vitanova's approach leverages energy-based techniques that activate cancer-specific intracellular acidosis through targeted wavelengths of light and nanoparticles, which are designed to selectively target cancer cells using antibody or antigen conjugation. This strategy not only offers a cost-effective solution for cancer therapy but also seeks to improve patient outcomes in a transformative manner.
Caza Health
Grant in 2020
Caza Health is a biotech company specializing in the microbiome, immunology, and oncology. The company was founded in 2019 and is headquartered in Earlysville, Virginia.
Aspero Medical
Grant in 2020
Aspero Medical, Inc. is a medical device manufacturer based in Boulder, Colorado, established in 2018. The company specializes in gastrointestinal balloon endoscopy procedures, offering a product known as the AP Balloon Overtube. This innovative device utilizes pillar micro-texture technology to improve the performance of endoscopic procedures by enhancing mucosal wall traction and anchoring consistency within the gastrointestinal tract. By optimizing these aspects, Aspero Medical aims to reduce procedure time and sedation requirements, ultimately improving patient outcomes and providing cost-effective solutions for healthcare providers.
Biocogniv
Grant in 2020
Biocogniv Inc. specializes in developing artificial intelligence-powered diagnostic tools designed for hospitals, with a focus on enhancing clinical operations. Founded in 2019 and based in Burlington, Vermont, the company provides plugins for electronic health record (EHR) systems that enable real-time screening of patients for conditions such as COVID-19 by analyzing standard blood test results. Biocogniv's platform is particularly beneficial for emergency departments, as it can predict sepsis-related mortality and the need for intensive care unit admission. By leveraging the vast amounts of clinical and administrative data generated by hospitals, Biocogniv aims to improve the quality, cost, and accessibility of healthcare while facilitating accurate and non-invasive diagnostic methods.
Oscillo Biosciences
Grant in 2020
Oscillo Biosciences focuses on developing innovative pharmacological treatments for Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. The company has conducted studies to assess the impact of music and multisensory stimulation on brain activity in adults. Oscillo Biosciences creates a prescription medical device and a digital therapeutic that work in tandem to restore healthy brain function in patients experiencing mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. Their approach is grounded in the understanding that brain rhythms essential for memory and cognition are disrupted in these patients. Additionally, Oscillo Biosciences develops human-centered technologies aimed at rehabilitating individuals with language, cognitive, and motor impairments, utilizing rhythmic behaviors associated with speech, music, and movement to create effective therapies.
Chosen Diagnostics
Grant in 2020
Chosen Diagnostics specializes in developing innovative biomarker diagnostic kits aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery for neonates. The company’s primary product is a test designed to diagnose a serious and potentially life-threatening bowel disease in preterm infants. This diagnostic kit provides more accurate results compared to existing methods, facilitating earlier medical intervention. By enabling timely detection of critical health issues, Chosen Diagnostics aims to improve treatment outcomes for thousands of low birth weight preterm infants, ultimately leading to better healthcare results in this vulnerable population.
Inso Biosciences
Grant in 2020
Inso Biosciences is an early-stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative hardware platforms and tools for genomic sample handling. Utilizing patented microfluidic technology originally created at Cornell University, the company specializes in high-efficiency processing of cellular material. Inso Biosciences aims to enhance applications in long-read DNA extraction, multiomic sample processing, and pathogen surveillance. Their platform facilitates the separation and isolation of cellular components, thereby supporting healthcare and biotech companies in their biological sample preparation needs.
AxonDx
Grant in 2020
AxonDx is a company focused on the detection of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in blood samples, which serve as a crucial indicator of both primary tumors and potential metastases. Their innovative nCYTE™ technology allows for the rapid scanning of un-enriched blood samples, identifying all classes of CTCs shed by solid tumors within minutes. This method not only enhances the accuracy of detection but also provides detailed morphological and molecular characterization of the identified cells. By enabling faster and more comprehensive insights into a patient’s cancer status, AxonDx's solutions support personalized medical treatment and early cancer detection. The company operates on a “razor and blade” business model, selling nCYTE™ instruments and associated diagnostic kits, making their technology accessible at the point of care. This advancement represents a significant improvement over existing CTC detection methods, which are often slow, costly, and less sensitive.
Cordance Medical
Grant in 2020
Cordance Medical is a medical device company focused on developing innovative therapies for central nervous system (CNS) pathologies, including primary and metastatic cancers, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. The company has created a non-invasive ultrasound system that precisely opens the blood-brain barrier, allowing for targeted delivery of systemically administered drugs to specific brain regions. This low-power ultrasound technology aims to enhance diagnostic and therapeutic options for patients, providing a safe and effective means to address complex neurological conditions.
LEAH Labs
Grant in 2020
LEAH Laboratories specializes in developing innovative gene-editing technologies aimed at treating cancer in dogs, particularly B-cell lymphoma. The company utilizes precision gene editing to reprogram T immune cells with Chimeric Antigen Receptors (CAR), creating CAR T cells that can specifically target and eliminate cancerous cells while minimizing off-target effects commonly associated with traditional chemotherapy. By harnessing the natural capabilities of the canine immune system, LEAH Laboratories provides a novel approach to cancer treatment, offering hope to pet owners and veterinarians in their fight against this challenging disease. Based in the United States, LEAH Labs is committed to advancing medical therapies for canine health.
Opticyte
Grant in 2020
Opticyte, Inc. is a medical device company based in Seattle, WA, focused on developing innovative technology for monitoring oxygen levels in cells to prevent organ failure. Founded in 2016 as a spinoff from the University of Washington, Opticyte is creating the first Cell O2 Monitor, a noninvasive oximeter that utilizes advanced algorithms and optical spectroscopy. This device is designed to measure oxygen concentration within cells, facilitating early detection of critical conditions such as shock, sepsis, hemorrhage, and cardiac dysfunction. By enabling clinicians to make timely treatment decisions, Opticyte aims to reduce the risk of multiple organ failure and improve patient outcomes. The company comprises a team with significant expertise in engineering, regulatory affairs, and communications, dedicated to bringing this essential medical technology to market.
Akanocure Pharmaceuticals
Grant in 2020
Akanocure Pharmaceuticals is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative anti-cancer chemotherapeutic drugs aimed at treating various forms of cancer. The company is dedicated to finding therapeutic approaches that effectively block the metastatic processes responsible for 90% of cancer-related deaths. By harnessing the expertise of its team throughout the drug discovery and development phases, Akanocure aims to create novel small molecules derived from natural resources. These bio-targeted therapeutics are designed not only to combat cancer but also to alleviate the side effects associated with chemotherapy and other cancer treatments, ultimately improving the quality of life for patients.
Viora Health
Grant in 2020
Viora Health is a health and wellness company focused on advancing health equity among diverse populations. It offers tech-enabled, human-centered programs that utilize social and behavioral engagement to enhance capacity, satisfaction, outcomes, and revenue for healthcare providers. The company is backed by funding from reputable organizations such as the American Heart Association, the National Institutes of Health, Johnson and Johnson, and the National Science Foundation, with its initiatives validated through an Institutional Review Board-approved study. Viora Health's programs have demonstrated a 75% satisfaction score, double retention rates, and improved health outcomes, including reduced stress and better access to food and social support. Additionally, Viora Health develops a healthcare compliance platform aimed at enhancing adherence to diabetes prevention initiatives by connecting patients to programs, tracking data, and facilitating online engagement tools, which help diabetes prevention programs comply with insurance requirements and achieve outcome-based reimbursement.
Capienda Biotech
Seed Round in 2020
Capienda Biotech focuses on enhancing the drug discovery process by providing an innovative biotechnology platform that significantly reduces the time and cost associated with developing new medicines. By addressing a critical bottleneck in drug discovery, Capienda's advanced bioanalytical system allows for faster and more efficient designs of small molecules, which results in higher quality drugs entering clinical trials. Their high-throughput kinetics system offers a throughput 48 times greater than traditional methods, eliminating the need for specialist scientists. The company's offerings include a laboratory instrument system and assay chemicals, creating a recurring revenue model that supports ongoing research and development efforts.
Niche Biomedical
Grant in 2020
Niche Biomedical is a platform and therapy development firm that specializes in creating innovative solutions for chronic injuries and disorders that have not responded to traditional pharmacological treatments. The company has developed ANEUVO®, which focuses on addressing these challenging medical conditions. Among its notable innovations is ExaStim®, a non-invasive neuromodulation system that has received FDA Breakthrough Device Designation for the treatment of spinal cord injuries. Additionally, Niche Biomedical is advancing a gastrointestinal therapeutic device aimed at alleviating postoperative ileus and restoring gastrointestinal motility. This device leverages bioelectronic medicine to revolutionize treatment options for various diseases and injuries that are difficult to manage with conventional pharmaceuticals. The company is also capable of developing miniaturized implantable devices that maintain sophisticated functionality, allowing for targeted neuromodulation therapies.
Inso Biosciences
Grant in 2020
Inso Biosciences is an early-stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative hardware platforms and tools for genomic sample handling. Utilizing patented microfluidic technology originally created at Cornell University, the company specializes in high-efficiency processing of cellular material. Inso Biosciences aims to enhance applications in long-read DNA extraction, multiomic sample processing, and pathogen surveillance. Their platform facilitates the separation and isolation of cellular components, thereby supporting healthcare and biotech companies in their biological sample preparation needs.
VivoZ Biolabs
Grant in 2019
VivoZ Biolabs is a biotechnology company focused on developing and commercializing innovative microfluidic technologies aimed at personalized medicine and drug discovery. The company's flagship product is a patented layered microfluidic tissue assay that closely mimics the dynamic three-dimensional tumor microenvironment. This platform allows for the maintenance of micro-tumor growth and functions ex vivo, facilitating mid-to-high throughput drug screening and diagnosis. By utilizing this technology, healthcare professionals can better predict and select candidate compounds during the drug discovery process, ultimately enhancing personalized cancer treatment options.
Aural Analytics
Grant in 2019
Aural Analytics, Inc. is a Scottsdale, Arizona-based company founded in 2015 that focuses on developing applications for monitoring brain health. The company has created a multi-modal brain health analytics platform that utilizes advances in artificial intelligence, neuroscience, and speech analytics to detect changes in neurological health. By leveraging proprietary metrics, Aural Analytics transforms smartphones and tablets into effective brain health monitors, capturing subtle, clinically relevant aspects of a patient's condition through speech samples. This technology enhances traditional functional rating scales used in clinical trials by providing objective, continuous outcomes, thereby allowing for more reliable evaluations of drug efficacy and other interventions. Aural Analytics' platform aims to reveal incremental changes in neurological health, facilitating accurate assessments by medical professionals.
VitalFlo
Grant in 2019
VitalFlo Inc. is a digital health company based in Raleigh, North Carolina, established in 2017. It specializes in manufacturing handheld spirometers for asthmatic patients, allowing them to monitor their lung health and medication use. In addition to the spirometers, VitalFlo develops software that connects patients with chronic respiratory conditions to their healthcare providers. The company's remote monitoring system tracks lung function and environmental factors that may trigger asthma attacks, providing actionable insights to clinical teams. This innovative approach aims to reduce emergency room visits by offering timely recommendations to patients, thereby redefining asthma management and enhancing overall care.
Prime Labs
Grant in 2019
Prime Labs is a company focused on enhancing drug discovery through its cloud-based software platform, which specializes in mass spectrometry data processing, analysis, reporting, and visualization. The software is designed to support a variety of instruments and workflows, enabling scientists to conduct experiments with greater accuracy and efficiency. By streamlining the data processing experience, Prime Labs offers a user-friendly solution that minimizes the complexity typically associated with such tasks, allowing researchers to focus on their work with minimal training or installation requirements. This innovative approach facilitates a broader range of experiments in a shorter time frame, ultimately contributing to advancements in medical research and drug development.
Zenobia Therapeutics
Grant in 2019
Zenobia Therapeutics, founded in 2008, specializes in developing treatments for neurodegenerative diseases through fragment-based lead discovery. The company has established a products division, Zenobia Fragments, which offers tools and services that aid researchers in target validation and lead discovery programs. By utilizing fragment-based therapies, Zenobia Therapeutics supports the research community in identifying effective treatments for neurology-related diseases, ultimately aiming to improve patient outcomes.
Oxalo Therapeutics
Grant in 2019
Oxalo Therapeutics is focused on developing innovative drug therapies aimed at treating rare kidney diseases and preventing recurring kidney stones. The company specifically targets primary hyperoxaluria and other oxalate-related pathologies through a novel approach that utilizes a gut bacterium to facilitate the safe removal of oxalate from the body. By mimicking natural mechanisms, Oxalo Therapeutics seeks to provide effective treatment options for patients suffering from conditions associated with high levels of oxalate, thereby improving their quality of life and reducing the incidence of kidney stone recurrence. The company's expertise in the microbiome and translational research underpins its commitment to advancing early-stage technology in the field of kidney health.
Senseer
Grant in 2019
Senseer Health, founded in 2017, focuses on addressing the chronic disease market by developing Smart Medical Device Therapies for managing various chronic conditions, which affect a significant portion of older adults. The company's innovations began with patented microsensors that monitor implantable devices for patients with hydrocephalus, renal, and cardiovascular diseases. To enhance the effectiveness of these microsensor-enabled devices, Senseer has incorporated advanced wearable and ambient sensor technologies. The integration of these multi-modal sensor technologies with an IoT software platform allows for the utilization of proprietary data sets and predictive analytics. This comprehensive approach provides healthcare providers with tools for remote monitoring and timely interventions, ultimately aiming to improve the quality of life for individuals with chronic conditions while reducing costs and enhancing patient safety.
Design Therapeutics
Grant in 2019
Design Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative therapies for degenerative disorders linked to nucleotide repeat expansions. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Solana Beach, California, the company is advancing its lead program aimed at treating Friedreich’s ataxia. Additionally, Design Therapeutics is exploring treatments for other conditions such as Fragile X syndrome and myotonic dystrophy, utilizing its proprietary GeneTACTM technology, which involves small-molecule gene-targeted therapeutics designed to modify the underlying causes of these inherited diseases. The company is committed to addressing serious monogenic disorders driven by nucleotide repeat mutations through its ongoing research and development efforts.
Gate Scientific
Grant in 2019
Gate Scientific makes products that enable great research and improve healthcare decisions by bringing to market intuitive solutions that simplify complex problems. By bringing to market intuitive solutions that simplify complex problems, they allow for the latest technologies to benefit more people.
Iaso Therapeutics
Grant in 2019
Iaso Therapeutics, founded in 2018 and based in East Lansing, Michigan, is a biotechnology company focused on developing vaccines aimed at improving human health and treating infectious diseases. The company’s platform is dedicated to creating vaccines for serious illnesses, including smallpox, yellow fever, and tetanus. By providing healthcare professionals with innovative technologies, Iaso Therapeutics seeks to enhance public health outcomes and address critical health challenges.
Azitra
Grant in 2019
Azitra Inc. is a clinical-stage medical dermatology company based in Farmington, Connecticut, focused on developing microbiome-based therapeutics for skin diseases. Established in 2014, Azitra leverages its proprietary platform, which includes a microbial library of bacterial strains, to discover and create novel treatments for adverse skin conditions. The company's technology, developed in collaboration with researchers at Yale University and the Jackson Laboratory, is centered around a specific strain of the natural commensal bacteria Staphylococcus epidermidis. Additionally, Azitra employs artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance the screening and prediction of therapeutic characteristics within its microbial library. By utilizing engineered proteins and live biotherapeutic products for topical application, Azitra aims to advance precision dermatology.
Abalone Bio
Grant in 2019
Abalone Bio, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Richmond, California, established in 2017. The company specializes in developing full-spectrum antibody drugs aimed at treating various conditions, including pain, inflammatory diseases, rare cancers, and rare kidney diseases. One of its primary focuses is on creating a drug for peripheral neuropathy. Abalone Bio employs innovative techniques that utilize libraries of yeast cells expressing antibody variants to either activate or inhibit specific drug targets, facilitating the production of recombinant protein versions of its antibodies. This approach allows for the confirmation of their efficacy through human cell assays, ultimately enabling medical practitioners to address rare diseases more effectively.
Sanguine
Grant in 2019
Sanguine is focused on enhancing translational biomedical research by facilitating patient participation. The company offers tools and concierge services that enable patients to engage in medical research from the comfort of their homes, promoting transparency and communication throughout the process. By prioritizing respectful patient support and appropriate compensation, Sanguine aims to improve the overall patient experience and ensure that research biospecimens are more impactful. Through these efforts, Sanguine seeks to bridge the gap between patients and researchers, empowering individuals to contribute directly to the development of personalized medicines and new treatments.
Clairways
Grant in 2019
Clairways specializes in smart lung monitoring technology designed for pharmaceutical clinical trials. The company develops a wearable digital lung monitor that captures critical respiratory metrics for individuals suffering from conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cystic fibrosis (CF). Fitted to the body, this device employs acoustic sensors and machine learning technology to detect and characterize various respiratory metrics. The collected data is presented in an accessible format, allowing healthcare providers to easily monitor and assess patients' respiratory health over the long term.
Isolere Bio
Grant in 2019
Isolere Bio is a biotechnology company dedicated to simplifying the purification of biotherapeutics, particularly monoclonal antibodies and Adeno-Associated Viruses (AAV). Co-founded with the aim of enhancing global access to essential drugs, Isolere Bio develops innovative manufacturing technologies that utilize a straightforward Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF) setup. This approach facilitates a seamless transition from laboratory-scale processes to large-scale industrial production, thereby improving efficiency within the bioprocessing industry. As monoclonal antibodies continue to gain prominence as effective therapeutics and important research tools, Isolere Bio's work plays a crucial role in advancing the development of new diagnostics and treatments.
Trilo Therapeutics
Grant in 2019
Trilo Therapeutics, based in San Francisco and founded by experienced professionals in the biotech and pharmaceutical sectors, focuses on developing innovative peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs) to overcome the limitations of current antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). The company employs macrocyclic D-amino acid peptides to replace the antibody component, resulting in superior tumor penetration and reduced toxicity compared to traditional L-amino acid peptide-drug conjugates. Trilo's conjugates are designed to be compatible with clinically validated payloads and radionuclides, facilitating new treatment modalities through a "fast in/fast out" mechanism. Additionally, Trilo is engaged in creating novel inhibitors of protein interactions, aiming to target disease-causing proteins for the treatment of cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases. This dual focus on peptide-based therapies and protein interaction inhibitors positions Trilo Therapeutics as a leader in developing effective treatments for severe medical conditions.
TEGA Therapeutics
Grant in 2019
TEGA Therapeutics, Inc. is focused on developing glycoscience-related technologies aimed at treating life-threatening diseases. Founded in 2013 and based in La Jolla, California, the company specializes in enhancing the delivery of enzyme replacement therapies to the brain, particularly for lysosomal storage disorders. By leveraging glycoside-enhanced delivery methods, TEGA addresses significant challenges in reaching the central nervous system, thereby improving treatment outcomes. Additionally, the company produces bio-engineered heparan sulfate and heparin, which play crucial roles in various physiological processes. TEGA's mission is to improve the quality of life for patients by providing innovative solutions for unmet medical needs, utilizing rigorous scientific methods to advance the therapeutic potential of glycans in medicine.
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