Northpond Ventures

Garuda Therapeutics is a biotech company focused on developing off-the-shelf hematopoietic stem cell therapies aimed at treating life-threatening diseases, particularly those affecting blood, bone marrow, immunity, and metabolism. The company is dedicated to eliminating the reliance on donor or patient cells for blood stem cell transplants by leveraging its innovative platform technology to generate self-renewing blood stem cells. This approach is designed to ensure rapid and broad access to consistent, durable, HLA-compatible, and transgene-free blood stem cell therapies for patients. Garuda Therapeutics employs advanced methodologies, including the use of zebrafish, mice, and human-induced pluripotent stem cells, to clone and analyze novel genes and mechanisms critical for blood formation, ultimately developing mechanism-based therapies that address unmet medical needs.

Vizgen, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, that specializes in developing advanced spatially resolved transcriptomic profiling tools aimed at enhancing understanding of biological systems related to human health and disease. Founded in 2019, the company has created patented MERFISH technology, which facilitates multiplexed single-molecule imaging to measure RNA species within individual cells, providing insights into gene expression at a subcellular level. This innovative approach allows for single-cell gene expression profiling in intact tissue slices, enabling researchers to explore various applications in fields such as oncology, immunology, neuroscience, infectious diseases, developmental biology, and regenerative medicine. Through its cutting-edge technology, Vizgen seeks to unlock new dimensions of biological research and improve methods for studying complex diseases.

Slingshot Biosciences, Inc. is a manufacturer of biological products based in Emeryville, California, founded in 2012. The company focuses on developing next-generation synthetic cells aimed at enhancing diagnostics and therapeutics. By creating engineered synthetic cells, Slingshot Biosciences addresses challenges in drug research, particularly in measuring and standardizing cell analysis. Their innovations enable researchers to conduct advanced diagnostics without the limitations of cold-chain logistics, making their solutions more accessible. Additionally, the company is committed to developing products that target neglected and rare diseases, providing elegant and cost-effective solutions for common issues in research and development.

Totus Medicines specializes in developing innovative therapies to address previously untreatable diseases by harnessing advanced chemical biology techniques. The company utilizes a proprietary platform that enables high-throughput drug discovery, allowing it to screen billions of drug candidates against thousands of biological targets. This approach focuses on identifying effective molecules for traditionally challenging and undruggable targets, including those associated with cancer, Alzheimer's, infectious diseases, and the aging process. By converting genetic insights into viable therapeutic options, Totus Medicines aims to make a significant impact on the treatment landscape for various complex diseases.

Aro Biotherapeutics is a biotechnology company based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, focused on developing a novel protein drug platform known as Centyrins. Established in 2017, the company aims to enhance treatment options for oncology and immunology by creating small, non-antibody protein scaffolds. These Centyrins can be engineered as multi-specific therapeutics, enabling innovative mechanisms of action. They are designed to improve efficacy and safety profiles for patients suffering from cancer and other serious diseases, while also facilitating the targeted delivery of complex drug payloads, including nucleic acids. Aro Biotherapeutics is committed to advancing its wholly-owned pipeline of Centyrins, contributing to the field of genetic medicines.

Kyverna Therapeutics, Inc. is a cell therapy company focused on developing innovative treatments and potential cures for serious autoimmune diseases. Founded in 2018 and based in Berkeley, California, Kyverna employs advanced T cell engineering and synthetic biology technologies to target and eliminate autoreactive immune cells, which are responsible for the inflammation associated with these diseases. By addressing the root causes of autoimmune conditions, Kyverna aims to provide more effective and lasting solutions for patients suffering from these challenging health issues.

SpeeDx is a company that specializes in molecular diagnostic solutions aimed at enhancing patient management through comprehensive information. Utilizing innovative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) technology, SpeeDx offers a leading portfolio of multiplex diagnostic tests. These tests are particularly focused on sexually transmitted infections (STIs), antibiotic resistance markers, and respiratory diseases. By employing advanced multiplex detection and priming strategies, SpeeDx enables healthcare providers to effectively diagnose infectious diseases and assess antibiotic resistance, ultimately improving clinical outcomes.

Garuda Therapeutics is a biotech company focused on developing off-the-shelf hematopoietic stem cell therapies aimed at treating life-threatening diseases, particularly those affecting blood, bone marrow, immunity, and metabolism. The company is dedicated to eliminating the reliance on donor or patient cells for blood stem cell transplants by leveraging its innovative platform technology to generate self-renewing blood stem cells. This approach is designed to ensure rapid and broad access to consistent, durable, HLA-compatible, and transgene-free blood stem cell therapies for patients. Garuda Therapeutics employs advanced methodologies, including the use of zebrafish, mice, and human-induced pluripotent stem cells, to clone and analyze novel genes and mechanisms critical for blood formation, ultimately developing mechanism-based therapies that address unmet medical needs.

Slingshot Biosciences, Inc. is a manufacturer of biological products based in Emeryville, California, founded in 2012. The company focuses on developing next-generation synthetic cells aimed at enhancing diagnostics and therapeutics. By creating engineered synthetic cells, Slingshot Biosciences addresses challenges in drug research, particularly in measuring and standardizing cell analysis. Their innovations enable researchers to conduct advanced diagnostics without the limitations of cold-chain logistics, making their solutions more accessible. Additionally, the company is committed to developing products that target neglected and rare diseases, providing elegant and cost-effective solutions for common issues in research and development.

CAMP4 Therapeutics Corporation, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, specializes in bioinformatics and gene regulation circuitry. Founded in 2015, the company has developed a 4-D gene circuitry platform that translates the activation of the human genome's 24,000 genes into a set of combinatorial rules based on existing signaling pathways. This innovative approach allows CAMP4 to control gene expression effectively, addressing the root causes of diseases. By leveraging this gene circuitry code, the company aims to expedite the drug development process, significantly reducing both time and risk associated with bringing new treatments to patients.

Code Biotherapeutics is a next-generation gene therapy company pioneering the development of targeted non-viral gene therapies to treat serious and life-threatening genetic diseases. Code Bio leverages its novel multivalent synthetic DNA delivery platform, 3DNA, which has been engineered to overcome many of the challenges inherent with viral-based gene therapies such as immunogenicity, size and delivery limitations, re-dosability, and manufacturing complexity. The company is advancing an internal pipeline focused on select rare disease programs as well as establishing partnerships to take forward programs in both rare and prevalent diseases.

Vizgen, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, that specializes in developing advanced spatially resolved transcriptomic profiling tools aimed at enhancing understanding of biological systems related to human health and disease. Founded in 2019, the company has created patented MERFISH technology, which facilitates multiplexed single-molecule imaging to measure RNA species within individual cells, providing insights into gene expression at a subcellular level. This innovative approach allows for single-cell gene expression profiling in intact tissue slices, enabling researchers to explore various applications in fields such as oncology, immunology, neuroscience, infectious diseases, developmental biology, and regenerative medicine. Through its cutting-edge technology, Vizgen seeks to unlock new dimensions of biological research and improve methods for studying complex diseases.

Ansa Biotechnologies, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Berkeley, California, focused on developing innovative DNA synthesis technology utilizing enzymes. Established in 2018, the company aims to improve upon traditional chemical methods of DNA synthesis that have remained largely unchanged for decades. Ansa's enzymatic approach offers significant advantages, including increased speed, accuracy, and cleanliness in the production of DNA fragments such as oligonucleotides. This technology enhances the capabilities of biological research, therapeutics, diagnostics, and biomanufacturing by enabling the synthesis of gene-length oligonucleotides. Through its advancements, Ansa Biotechnologies seeks to facilitate innovation in the fields of biological research and engineering, ultimately providing valuable services to medical researchers and contributing to the broader biotechnology landscape.

Sherlock Biosciences, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on developing innovative molecular diagnostic solutions. The company utilizes advanced engineering biology tools, such as CRISPR and synthetic biology, to create diagnostic platforms capable of delivering accurate and rapid results. Its notable technologies include SHERLOCK, a method for detecting and quantifying specific genetic sequences, and INSPECTR, which is designed for versatile, easy-to-use diagnostics. Sherlock Biosciences aims to serve various applications, including precision oncology, infectious disease identification, food safety, at-home testing, and general disease detection. Founded in 2018, the company is committed to providing affordable diagnostics suitable for diverse settings, including those with low-resource environments.

DNAnexus, Inc. is a provider of cloud-based genome informatics and data management tools aimed at enterprises engaged in genomic medicine. Founded in 2009 and headquartered in Mountain View, California, the company offers a platform that facilitates the analysis of raw sequencing data and integration with clinical and phenotypic data, promoting seamless collaboration among users. Key offerings include MOSAIC Microbiome, a platform for collaborative microbiome research; DNAnexus Apollo, which focuses on clinico-genomic data exploration; and DNAnexus Titan, a comprehensive data analysis solution. Additionally, DNAnexus Portals provide secure online workspaces for cross-disciplinary collaboration. The Clinico-Genomic Data Solution program addresses the need for disease-specific datasets by building networks with healthcare partners to enhance diagnosis and treatment pathways. DNAnexus serves a diverse client base, including biopharmaceutical companies, genome centers, and diagnostic test providers, and has established a strategic alliance with WuXi NextCODE Genomics. The company also maintains additional offices in San Francisco, London, and Prague.

Scipher Medicine Corporation is a biotechnology company based in Waltham, Massachusetts, that specializes in precision medicine for patients with autoimmune and cardiovascular diseases. The company has developed a molecular technology platform that utilizes blood samples to analyze RNA and predict patient responses to drug therapies. Its primary offerings include PrismDx tests, which identify patients who may not respond to certain medications, ensuring they can be prescribed alternative treatments. Notably, the PrismRA test assesses patients with rheumatoid arthritis to determine their likelihood of responding to anti-TNF therapies, while PrismUC serves a similar purpose for patients with ulcerative colitis. By focusing on the underlying disease biology rather than just symptoms, Scipher Medicine aims to optimize treatment from the outset, potentially reducing the healthcare costs associated with ineffective therapies. Established in 2013 and rebranded in 2015, Scipher Medicine is committed to transforming drug prescription practices and advancing drug development through its innovative approach.

Kyverna Therapeutics, Inc. is a cell therapy company focused on developing innovative treatments and potential cures for serious autoimmune diseases. Founded in 2018 and based in Berkeley, California, Kyverna employs advanced T cell engineering and synthetic biology technologies to target and eliminate autoreactive immune cells, which are responsible for the inflammation associated with these diseases. By addressing the root causes of autoimmune conditions, Kyverna aims to provide more effective and lasting solutions for patients suffering from these challenging health issues.

Totus Medicines specializes in developing innovative therapies to address previously untreatable diseases by harnessing advanced chemical biology techniques. The company utilizes a proprietary platform that enables high-throughput drug discovery, allowing it to screen billions of drug candidates against thousands of biological targets. This approach focuses on identifying effective molecules for traditionally challenging and undruggable targets, including those associated with cancer, Alzheimer's, infectious diseases, and the aging process. By converting genetic insights into viable therapeutic options, Totus Medicines aims to make a significant impact on the treatment landscape for various complex diseases.

Kytopen, established in 2017 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, specializes in the development of a cell therapy platform. This platform facilitates the non-viral delivery of molecules into challenging-to-transfect immune cells, making the process easier, faster, and more cost-effective. The company's proprietary Flowfect™ technology combines microfluidics and automation, enabling researchers to explore new biological discoveries and develop more affordable cell and gene therapies.

Garuda Therapeutics is a biotech company focused on developing off-the-shelf hematopoietic stem cell therapies aimed at treating life-threatening diseases, particularly those affecting blood, bone marrow, immunity, and metabolism. The company is dedicated to eliminating the reliance on donor or patient cells for blood stem cell transplants by leveraging its innovative platform technology to generate self-renewing blood stem cells. This approach is designed to ensure rapid and broad access to consistent, durable, HLA-compatible, and transgene-free blood stem cell therapies for patients. Garuda Therapeutics employs advanced methodologies, including the use of zebrafish, mice, and human-induced pluripotent stem cells, to clone and analyze novel genes and mechanisms critical for blood formation, ultimately developing mechanism-based therapies that address unmet medical needs.

Slingshot Biosciences, Inc. is a manufacturer of biological products based in Emeryville, California, founded in 2012. The company focuses on developing next-generation synthetic cells aimed at enhancing diagnostics and therapeutics. By creating engineered synthetic cells, Slingshot Biosciences addresses challenges in drug research, particularly in measuring and standardizing cell analysis. Their innovations enable researchers to conduct advanced diagnostics without the limitations of cold-chain logistics, making their solutions more accessible. Additionally, the company is committed to developing products that target neglected and rare diseases, providing elegant and cost-effective solutions for common issues in research and development.

CAMP4 Therapeutics Corporation, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, specializes in bioinformatics and gene regulation circuitry. Founded in 2015, the company has developed a 4-D gene circuitry platform that translates the activation of the human genome's 24,000 genes into a set of combinatorial rules based on existing signaling pathways. This innovative approach allows CAMP4 to control gene expression effectively, addressing the root causes of diseases. By leveraging this gene circuitry code, the company aims to expedite the drug development process, significantly reducing both time and risk associated with bringing new treatments to patients.

Torus Biosystems, founded in 2019 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, develops a diagnostic device that enables DNA testing for scientific and medical research. The company's apparatus is designed for various applications, including consumer products, food safety for humans and animals, and sectors such as hygiene, beauty care, agriculture, horticulture, and forestry. By providing access to DNA testing for non-medical purposes, Torus Biosystems supports the advancement of research across multiple fields.

Vizgen, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, that specializes in developing advanced spatially resolved transcriptomic profiling tools aimed at enhancing understanding of biological systems related to human health and disease. Founded in 2019, the company has created patented MERFISH technology, which facilitates multiplexed single-molecule imaging to measure RNA species within individual cells, providing insights into gene expression at a subcellular level. This innovative approach allows for single-cell gene expression profiling in intact tissue slices, enabling researchers to explore various applications in fields such as oncology, immunology, neuroscience, infectious diseases, developmental biology, and regenerative medicine. Through its cutting-edge technology, Vizgen seeks to unlock new dimensions of biological research and improve methods for studying complex diseases.

Scipher Medicine Corporation is a biotechnology company based in Waltham, Massachusetts, that specializes in precision medicine for patients with autoimmune and cardiovascular diseases. The company has developed a molecular technology platform that utilizes blood samples to analyze RNA and predict patient responses to drug therapies. Its primary offerings include PrismDx tests, which identify patients who may not respond to certain medications, ensuring they can be prescribed alternative treatments. Notably, the PrismRA test assesses patients with rheumatoid arthritis to determine their likelihood of responding to anti-TNF therapies, while PrismUC serves a similar purpose for patients with ulcerative colitis. By focusing on the underlying disease biology rather than just symptoms, Scipher Medicine aims to optimize treatment from the outset, potentially reducing the healthcare costs associated with ineffective therapies. Established in 2013 and rebranded in 2015, Scipher Medicine is committed to transforming drug prescription practices and advancing drug development through its innovative approach.

StrideBio, Inc. is a gene therapy company based in Durham, North Carolina, established in 2015. The company focuses on developing innovative adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector technologies and therapeutics aimed at treating rare diseases. Utilizing a proprietary platform that combines structural insights with accelerated evolution, StrideBio creates novel AAV capsids designed to evade neutralizing antibodies. This approach allows for enhanced gene addition, gene silencing, and gene editing capabilities, addressing the limitations of first-generation gene therapies. By engineering unique and differentiated vectors, StrideBio aims to improve treatment outcomes for patients facing devastating conditions.

Personal Genome Diagnostics, Inc. specializes in patient-specific cancer genome analysis using advanced digital characterization and monitoring technologies. Founded in 2010 and based in Baltimore, Maryland, the company offers a range of products and services aimed at improving cancer diagnosis and treatment. Their METDetect Assay detects MET gene amplifications in cancer patients' circulation, providing detailed reports on tumor-specific alterations. The LungSelect product identifies actionable genetic changes in plasma from non-small cell lung cancer patients, while PGDx elio plasma resolve is a diagnostic test that detects various genetic alterations in circulating cell-free DNA. Additionally, the company offers RNAcomplete, which allows for the extraction of total RNA and genomic DNA from single tissue samples, and CancerXOME, which analyzes the coding regions of numerous genes. Personal Genome Diagnostics collaborates with institutions like Mayo Clinic and has partnerships with KingMed Diagnostics to further enhance cancer genome research and diagnostics.

Encodia, Inc., founded in 2015 and headquartered in San Diego, California, specializes in proteomics research and the development of innovative protein analysis technology. The company offers a platform that utilizes reverse-translation technology to convert peptide sequence information into DNA libraries, facilitating scalable and efficient protein sequencing. This capability enables researchers to analyze protein samples comprehensively, thereby advancing the field of personalized medicine. By democratizing access to detailed information on cellular processes, Encodia aims to accelerate the discovery of novel approaches to addressing challenging diseases.

Aro Biotherapeutics is a biotechnology company based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, focused on developing a novel protein drug platform known as Centyrins. Established in 2017, the company aims to enhance treatment options for oncology and immunology by creating small, non-antibody protein scaffolds. These Centyrins can be engineered as multi-specific therapeutics, enabling innovative mechanisms of action. They are designed to improve efficacy and safety profiles for patients suffering from cancer and other serious diseases, while also facilitating the targeted delivery of complex drug payloads, including nucleic acids. Aro Biotherapeutics is committed to advancing its wholly-owned pipeline of Centyrins, contributing to the field of genetic medicines.

DNAnexus, Inc. is a provider of cloud-based genome informatics and data management tools aimed at enterprises engaged in genomic medicine. Founded in 2009 and headquartered in Mountain View, California, the company offers a platform that facilitates the analysis of raw sequencing data and integration with clinical and phenotypic data, promoting seamless collaboration among users. Key offerings include MOSAIC Microbiome, a platform for collaborative microbiome research; DNAnexus Apollo, which focuses on clinico-genomic data exploration; and DNAnexus Titan, a comprehensive data analysis solution. Additionally, DNAnexus Portals provide secure online workspaces for cross-disciplinary collaboration. The Clinico-Genomic Data Solution program addresses the need for disease-specific datasets by building networks with healthcare partners to enhance diagnosis and treatment pathways. DNAnexus serves a diverse client base, including biopharmaceutical companies, genome centers, and diagnostic test providers, and has established a strategic alliance with WuXi NextCODE Genomics. The company also maintains additional offices in San Francisco, London, and Prague.

SpeeDx is a company that specializes in molecular diagnostic solutions aimed at enhancing patient management through comprehensive information. Utilizing innovative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) technology, SpeeDx offers a leading portfolio of multiplex diagnostic tests. These tests are particularly focused on sexually transmitted infections (STIs), antibiotic resistance markers, and respiratory diseases. By employing advanced multiplex detection and priming strategies, SpeeDx enables healthcare providers to effectively diagnose infectious diseases and assess antibiotic resistance, ultimately improving clinical outcomes.

Vizgen, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, that specializes in developing advanced spatially resolved transcriptomic profiling tools aimed at enhancing understanding of biological systems related to human health and disease. Founded in 2019, the company has created patented MERFISH technology, which facilitates multiplexed single-molecule imaging to measure RNA species within individual cells, providing insights into gene expression at a subcellular level. This innovative approach allows for single-cell gene expression profiling in intact tissue slices, enabling researchers to explore various applications in fields such as oncology, immunology, neuroscience, infectious diseases, developmental biology, and regenerative medicine. Through its cutting-edge technology, Vizgen seeks to unlock new dimensions of biological research and improve methods for studying complex diseases.

SpeeDx is a company that specializes in molecular diagnostic solutions aimed at enhancing patient management through comprehensive information. Utilizing innovative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) technology, SpeeDx offers a leading portfolio of multiplex diagnostic tests. These tests are particularly focused on sexually transmitted infections (STIs), antibiotic resistance markers, and respiratory diseases. By employing advanced multiplex detection and priming strategies, SpeeDx enables healthcare providers to effectively diagnose infectious diseases and assess antibiotic resistance, ultimately improving clinical outcomes.

SpeeDx is a company that specializes in molecular diagnostic solutions aimed at enhancing patient management through comprehensive information. Utilizing innovative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) technology, SpeeDx offers a leading portfolio of multiplex diagnostic tests. These tests are particularly focused on sexually transmitted infections (STIs), antibiotic resistance markers, and respiratory diseases. By employing advanced multiplex detection and priming strategies, SpeeDx enables healthcare providers to effectively diagnose infectious diseases and assess antibiotic resistance, ultimately improving clinical outcomes.

Scipher Medicine Corporation is a biotechnology company based in Waltham, Massachusetts, that specializes in precision medicine for patients with autoimmune and cardiovascular diseases. The company has developed a molecular technology platform that utilizes blood samples to analyze RNA and predict patient responses to drug therapies. Its primary offerings include PrismDx tests, which identify patients who may not respond to certain medications, ensuring they can be prescribed alternative treatments. Notably, the PrismRA test assesses patients with rheumatoid arthritis to determine their likelihood of responding to anti-TNF therapies, while PrismUC serves a similar purpose for patients with ulcerative colitis. By focusing on the underlying disease biology rather than just symptoms, Scipher Medicine aims to optimize treatment from the outset, potentially reducing the healthcare costs associated with ineffective therapies. Established in 2013 and rebranded in 2015, Scipher Medicine is committed to transforming drug prescription practices and advancing drug development through its innovative approach.

Sherlock Biosciences, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on developing innovative molecular diagnostic solutions. The company utilizes advanced engineering biology tools, such as CRISPR and synthetic biology, to create diagnostic platforms capable of delivering accurate and rapid results. Its notable technologies include SHERLOCK, a method for detecting and quantifying specific genetic sequences, and INSPECTR, which is designed for versatile, easy-to-use diagnostics. Sherlock Biosciences aims to serve various applications, including precision oncology, infectious disease identification, food safety, at-home testing, and general disease detection. Founded in 2018, the company is committed to providing affordable diagnostics suitable for diverse settings, including those with low-resource environments.

Candel Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing cancer immunotherapies aimed at enhancing the quality of life for cancer patients and their families. The company specializes in low-toxicity viral immunotherapies that target the prevention of cancer recurrence and progression, particularly for less aggressive cancers such as newly diagnosed prostate cancer. Candel has developed two clinical-stage platforms utilizing novel, genetically modified constructs of adenovirus and herpes simplex virus (HSV). These innovative approaches enable physicians to improve patient outcomes and facilitate quicker recovery, marking a significant advancement in cancer treatment.