Partner Fund Management

Partner Fund Management operates as an investment management firm that offers services to pooled investment vehicles. With a focus on managing investments for their clients, Partner Fund Management aims to provide tailored financial solutions to help their clients achieve their investment goals. Through their expertise in the financial markets, Partner Fund Management strives to deliver strong returns and value to their investors.

Mark Karvosky

Partner

Ka-Wai To

Investment Analyst

30 past transactions

Erasca

Series B in 2020
Erasca, Inc. is a clinical-stage precision oncology company based in San Diego, California, focused on discovering and developing therapies for cancers driven by the RAS/MAPK pathway. Founded in 2018, the company utilizes its artificial intelligence-driven oncology pattern recognition algorithm (OPRA) to analyze extensive datasets and uncover novel tumor biology, which aids in the identification of key oncogenes. Erasca's drug development pipeline includes Naporafenib, a pan-RAF inhibitor with potential applications in NRAS mutant melanoma and other RAS/MAPK pathway-driven tumors, as well as ERAS-007, an oral ERK1/2 inhibitor, and ERAS-601, an oral SHP2 inhibitor. The company aims to provide precision oncology options through collaborations with academic and biopharmaceutical partners, ultimately seeking to offer innovative treatment solutions for patients.

Shattuck Labs

Series B in 2020
Shattuck Labs, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Austin, Texas, focused on developing innovative therapeutics for cancer and autoimmune diseases. The company utilizes its proprietary Agonist Redirected Checkpoint (ARC) platform, which involves dual-function fusion proteins designed to enhance immune responses against tumors. Its lead product candidate, SL-172154, is undergoing Phase 1 clinical trials for the treatment of ovarian cancer, while another candidate, SL-279252, is being developed in collaboration with Takeda Pharmaceuticals and is also in Phase 1 trials for advanced solid tumors and lymphoma. Shattuck Labs aims to address a variety of cancer types through its research in immuno-oncology, leveraging its technology to promote effective immune responses and improve patient outcomes. Founded in 2016, the company is committed to advancing the field of biologic medicine.

Pulmonx

Series H in 2020
Pulmonx Corporation is a medical technology company specializing in minimally invasive solutions for the diagnosis and treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), particularly severe emphysema. Its primary offerings include the Zephyr Endobronchial Valve, designed for patients with hyperinflation due to emphysema, as well as the Chartis Pulmonary Assessment System, which assesses collateral ventilation, and the StratX Lung Analysis Platform, a cloud-based service that analyzes computed tomography data to identify suitable treatment areas. Pulmonx aims to improve the quality of life for patients who remain symptomatic despite medical management and may not be candidates for surgical interventions. The company has received FDA pre-market approval for the Zephyr Valve and has established a global presence, serving markets in the United States, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia-Pacific region. Founded in 1995 and headquartered in Redwood City, California, Pulmonx has become a leader in interventional procedures for COPD, supported by extensive clinical evidence demonstrating the effectiveness of its technologies.

Apella

Seed Round in 2020
Apella is an artificial intelligence startup focused on enhancing surgical procedures through advanced healthcare technology. Founded in 2019 and headquartered in San Francisco, California, the company develops systems that utilize AI, computer vision, and modern communication to digitize operating rooms. By collecting data from these environments via sensors, Apella analyzes the information to provide insights that can improve surgical quality, streamline operations, and aid in training and real-time decision-making for medical staff. Its innovative approach aims to elevate surgery outcomes and optimize the overall efficiency of healthcare delivery.

Outset Medical

Series E in 2020
Outset Medical, Inc. is a medical technology company based in San Jose, California, focused on innovating hemodialysis systems. The company has developed Tablo, a compact dialysis machine designed for use in both acute and chronic care settings. This system integrates essential features such as water purification, on-demand dialysate production, and advanced software capabilities, including wireless data connectivity and sensor-based automation. By simplifying the dialysis process, Tablo aims to reduce costs and enhance the experience for both patients and healthcare providers. Founded in 2003 and originally named Home Dialysis Plus, Ltd., Outset Medical rebranded in 2015 to reflect its commitment to transforming dialysis care.

Avidity Biosciences

Series C in 2019
Avidity Biosciences, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing oligonucleotide-based therapies known as antibody oligonucleotide conjugates (AOCs). These innovative therapies aim to address the limitations of traditional oligonucleotide treatments by combining the tissue selectivity of monoclonal antibodies with the precision of oligonucleotide therapies. This approach allows Avidity to target previously undruggable tissue and cell types, thereby addressing the underlying genetic drivers of various diseases. The company's lead product candidate, AOC 1001, is designed to treat myotonic dystrophy type 1, a rare muscle disease. Additionally, Avidity is advancing multiple programs aimed at treating muscle-related conditions such as muscle atrophy, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy, and Pompe disease. Founded in 2012 and based in La Jolla, California, Avidity is also exploring therapeutic applications in immune and other cell types.

Karuna Therapeutics

Series B in 2019
Karuna Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Boston, Massachusetts, dedicated to developing innovative therapies for neuropsychiatric disorders and pain. Its lead product candidate, KarXT, is an oral modulator that has completed a Phase II clinical trial for treating acute psychosis in schizophrenia patients and is undergoing a Phase Ib clinical trial for various central nervous system disorders, including cognitive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s, and dementia-related psychosis. The company is also developing additional muscarinic-targeted drug candidates to address unmet medical needs in these areas. Founded in 2009, Karuna Therapeutics has established partnerships with organizations such as Eli Lilly and Company and PureTech Health LLC, focusing on advancing its drug discovery efforts through collaborations with Charles River Laboratories and PsychoGenics Inc.

Auris Health

Series E in 2018
Auris Health, Inc. is a medical technology company based in Redwood City, California, that specializes in the development of robotic systems for diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Founded in 2007, the company is known for its Monarch Platform, which enhances endoscopic procedures by utilizing flexible robotics, advanced imaging technology, and micro-instrumentation. This platform allows for minimally invasive access to the body through natural openings using small cameras and tools, thereby improving patient outcomes and potentially reducing healthcare costs. Additionally, Auris Health is working on a dual-arm microsurgical system designed for ophthalmic surgery, further expanding its focus on innovative robotic solutions for various medical applications. Auris Health operates as a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson.

Outset Medical

Series D in 2018
Outset Medical, Inc. is a medical technology company based in San Jose, California, focused on innovating hemodialysis systems. The company has developed Tablo, a compact dialysis machine designed for use in both acute and chronic care settings. This system integrates essential features such as water purification, on-demand dialysate production, and advanced software capabilities, including wireless data connectivity and sensor-based automation. By simplifying the dialysis process, Tablo aims to reduce costs and enhance the experience for both patients and healthcare providers. Founded in 2003 and originally named Home Dialysis Plus, Ltd., Outset Medical rebranded in 2015 to reflect its commitment to transforming dialysis care.

Cytrellis Biosystems

Series B in 2018
Cytrellis Biosystems, Inc. is a clinical stage medical technology company that focuses on the design and development of devices for dermatology, scar reduction, and aesthetic medicine. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Sherborn, Massachusetts, the company aims to address age-related skin issues by offering non-surgical solutions to remove sagging skin without causing scarring. Its innovative devices provide aesthetic practitioners with advanced tools to enhance skin appearance, thereby improving patient outcomes in the field of aesthetic medicine.

Unity Biotechnology

Series C in 2018
Unity Biotechnology is a biotechnology company dedicated to the research and development of therapeutics aimed at extending human health span by addressing diseases associated with aging. The company specializes in clearing senescent cells through the creation of senolytic medicines, which target vulnerabilities specific to these cells while preserving normal ones. Its lead drug candidates include UBX0101, currently undergoing Phase II trials for musculoskeletal disorders and Phase Ib trials for moderate-to-severe knee osteoarthritis, and UBX1325, which is in Phase I trials for diabetic macular edema. Additionally, Unity is exploring treatments for various age-related conditions, including ophthalmologic, pulmonary, kidney, and liver diseases. Founded in 2009 and based in South San Francisco, California, Unity Biotechnology was formerly known as Forge, Inc. and rebranded in 2015.

Aptinyx

Series B in 2017
Aptinyx Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to discovering and developing innovative therapies for brain and nervous system disorders. Founded in 2015 and based in Evanston, Illinois, the company focuses on novel, synthetic small molecules that modulate the NMDA receptor, enhancing communication pathways between nerve cells. Its primary products in development include NYX-2925, which is undergoing Phase II trials for painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy and fibromyalgia, and NYX-783, currently in Phase I trials for post-traumatic stress disorder. Additionally, Aptinyx is developing NYX-458, another NMDA receptor modulator, which is in Phase I clinical studies aimed at treating cognitive impairment associated with Parkinson’s disease. The company also collaborates with Allergan to develop compounds for major depressive disorder, underscoring its commitment to addressing significant unmet medical needs in the central nervous system arena.

Allakos

Series B in 2017
Allakos Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Redwood City, California, founded in 2012. The company focuses on developing antibody-based therapeutics aimed at treating various conditions linked to dysregulation of the T-helper type 2 immune response, such as allergic diseases and chronic inflammation. Its lead product, antolimab (AK002), targets conditions including eosinophilic gastritis, eosinophilic gastroenteritis, chronic urticaria, indolent systemic mastocytosis, and severe allergic conjunctivitis. Additionally, Allakos is developing AK006, an antibody that targets Siglec-6, an inhibitory receptor found on mast cells. By binding to Siglec-6, AK006 is designed to enhance the receptor's natural inhibitory function, thereby reducing mast cell activation and associated inflammatory responses.

Neon Therapeutics

Series B in 2017
Neon Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company specializing in neoantigen-targeted therapies aimed at advancing cancer treatment. By focusing on the immune system's response to neoantigens, the company seeks to develop innovative therapies that enhance the body's ability to fight cancer. Its product pipeline includes NEO-PV-01, NEO-PTC-01, and NEO-SV-01, which are designed to leverage the unique characteristics of neoantigens to improve patient outcomes.

Unity Biotechnology

Series B in 2017
Unity Biotechnology is a biotechnology company dedicated to the research and development of therapeutics aimed at extending human health span by addressing diseases associated with aging. The company specializes in clearing senescent cells through the creation of senolytic medicines, which target vulnerabilities specific to these cells while preserving normal ones. Its lead drug candidates include UBX0101, currently undergoing Phase II trials for musculoskeletal disorders and Phase Ib trials for moderate-to-severe knee osteoarthritis, and UBX1325, which is in Phase I trials for diabetic macular edema. Additionally, Unity is exploring treatments for various age-related conditions, including ophthalmologic, pulmonary, kidney, and liver diseases. Founded in 2009 and based in South San Francisco, California, Unity Biotechnology was formerly known as Forge, Inc. and rebranded in 2015.

Auris Health

Series D in 2017
Auris Health, Inc. is a medical technology company based in Redwood City, California, that specializes in the development of robotic systems for diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Founded in 2007, the company is known for its Monarch Platform, which enhances endoscopic procedures by utilizing flexible robotics, advanced imaging technology, and micro-instrumentation. This platform allows for minimally invasive access to the body through natural openings using small cameras and tools, thereby improving patient outcomes and potentially reducing healthcare costs. Additionally, Auris Health is working on a dual-arm microsurgical system designed for ophthalmic surgery, further expanding its focus on innovative robotic solutions for various medical applications. Auris Health operates as a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson.

Outset Medical

Series C in 2017
Outset Medical, Inc. is a medical technology company based in San Jose, California, focused on innovating hemodialysis systems. The company has developed Tablo, a compact dialysis machine designed for use in both acute and chronic care settings. This system integrates essential features such as water purification, on-demand dialysate production, and advanced software capabilities, including wireless data connectivity and sensor-based automation. By simplifying the dialysis process, Tablo aims to reduce costs and enhance the experience for both patients and healthcare providers. Founded in 2003 and originally named Home Dialysis Plus, Ltd., Outset Medical rebranded in 2015 to reflect its commitment to transforming dialysis care.

Sienna Biopharmaceuticals

Series B in 2017
Sienna Biopharmaceuticals, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company that specializes in the development of innovative therapies for dermatological conditions. The company focuses on immunology and inflammation, targeting specific pathways in the skin. Its lead product candidates include SNA-120, a first-in-class inhibitor currently undergoing Phase IIb clinical trials for psoriasis and associated itching, and SNA-125, a dual Janus kinase 3 inhibitor in Phase I/II trials aimed at treating atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. Additionally, Sienna is developing SNA-001, a topical silver particle suspension in pivotal trials for acne treatment and the reduction of light-pigmented hair. Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Westlake Village, California, Sienna Biopharmaceuticals has experienced significant operational challenges, filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2019, which was later converted to Chapter 7. The company, previously known as Sienna Labs, Inc., rebranded in February 2016 to better reflect its focus on dermatology and aesthetics.

Neon Therapeutics

Series B in 2017
Neon Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company specializing in neoantigen-targeted therapies aimed at advancing cancer treatment. By focusing on the immune system's response to neoantigens, the company seeks to develop innovative therapies that enhance the body's ability to fight cancer. Its product pipeline includes NEO-PV-01, NEO-PTC-01, and NEO-SV-01, which are designed to leverage the unique characteristics of neoantigens to improve patient outcomes.

Sienna Biopharmaceuticals

Series A in 2016
Sienna Biopharmaceuticals, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company that specializes in the development of innovative therapies for dermatological conditions. The company focuses on immunology and inflammation, targeting specific pathways in the skin. Its lead product candidates include SNA-120, a first-in-class inhibitor currently undergoing Phase IIb clinical trials for psoriasis and associated itching, and SNA-125, a dual Janus kinase 3 inhibitor in Phase I/II trials aimed at treating atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. Additionally, Sienna is developing SNA-001, a topical silver particle suspension in pivotal trials for acne treatment and the reduction of light-pigmented hair. Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Westlake Village, California, Sienna Biopharmaceuticals has experienced significant operational challenges, filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2019, which was later converted to Chapter 7. The company, previously known as Sienna Labs, Inc., rebranded in February 2016 to better reflect its focus on dermatology and aesthetics.

Sienna Biopharmaceuticals

Series A in 2016
Sienna Biopharmaceuticals, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company that specializes in the development of innovative therapies for dermatological conditions. The company focuses on immunology and inflammation, targeting specific pathways in the skin. Its lead product candidates include SNA-120, a first-in-class inhibitor currently undergoing Phase IIb clinical trials for psoriasis and associated itching, and SNA-125, a dual Janus kinase 3 inhibitor in Phase I/II trials aimed at treating atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. Additionally, Sienna is developing SNA-001, a topical silver particle suspension in pivotal trials for acne treatment and the reduction of light-pigmented hair. Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Westlake Village, California, Sienna Biopharmaceuticals has experienced significant operational challenges, filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2019, which was later converted to Chapter 7. The company, previously known as Sienna Labs, Inc., rebranded in February 2016 to better reflect its focus on dermatology and aesthetics.

Allena Pharmaceuticals

Series C in 2015
Allena Pharmaceuticals is a late-stage clinical biopharmaceutical company based in Newton, Massachusetts, that specializes in developing and commercializing oral enzyme therapeutics for rare and severe metabolic and kidney disorders. The company's primary focus is on conditions that involve the excessive accumulation of metabolites such as oxalate and urate, which can lead to complications like kidney stones and chronic kidney disease. Allena's lead product candidate, reloxaliase, is currently undergoing a pivotal Phase 3 clinical program aimed at treating enteric hyperoxaluria, a disorder linked to significantly high urinary oxalate levels. Additionally, the company is developing ALLN-346, a novel enzyme designed to address hyperuricemia in patients with moderate to severe chronic kidney diseases. Allena Pharmaceuticals aims to provide innovative treatments that address unmet medical needs in these patient populations.

Afferent Pharmaceuticals

Series C in 2015
Afferent Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Mateo, California, founded in 2009. The company focuses on developing small molecule drugs aimed at treating chronic pain and various neurogenic disorders by targeting P2X3 receptors in nerve fibers. Its lead compound, AF-219, has completed two Phase 1 clinical studies and is designed to address conditions such as osteoarthritis, back pain, visceral pain, and neuropathy, as well as respiratory and urological issues.

Outset Medical

Debt Financing in 2015
Outset Medical, Inc. is a medical technology company based in San Jose, California, focused on innovating hemodialysis systems. The company has developed Tablo, a compact dialysis machine designed for use in both acute and chronic care settings. This system integrates essential features such as water purification, on-demand dialysate production, and advanced software capabilities, including wireless data connectivity and sensor-based automation. By simplifying the dialysis process, Tablo aims to reduce costs and enhance the experience for both patients and healthcare providers. Founded in 2003 and originally named Home Dialysis Plus, Ltd., Outset Medical rebranded in 2015 to reflect its commitment to transforming dialysis care.

Dimension Therapeutics

Series B in 2015
Dimension Therapeutics, Inc. is a gene therapy company dedicated to developing innovative treatments for rare and metabolic diseases linked to liver function. Founded in 2013 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company has established a robust pipeline of gene therapy candidates. Its lead products include DTX101 for hemophilia B and DTX201 for hemophilia A, alongside other programs targeting conditions such as ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency, glycogen storage disease type Ia, phenylketonuria, Wilson disease, and citrullinemia type I. Dimension Therapeutics collaborates with REGENX Biosciences, leveraging its extensive patent portfolio related to NAV vector technology. This partnership enhances Dimension's ability to advance its gene therapy initiatives, particularly in the realm of adeno-associated virus therapeutics. In 2017, Dimension Therapeutics became a subsidiary of Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical Inc.

Voyager Therapeutics

Series B in 2015
Voyager Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage gene therapy company dedicated to developing innovative treatments for severe neurological diseases that significantly impact patients' lives. The company's lead candidate, VY-AADC, is currently undergoing an open-label Phase 1b clinical trial for Parkinson's disease. In addition to this, Voyager's preclinical pipeline includes therapies targeting amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (VY-SOD102), Huntington's disease (VY-HTT01), Friedreich's ataxia (VY-FXN01), and various tauopathies and synucleinopathies, such as Alzheimer's disease and Lewy Body Dementia. Voyager employs an adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapy approach, which is designed to modify protein production to alleviate disease symptoms, thereby aiming for clinically meaningful outcomes. The company has established strategic collaborations with institutions like the University of Massachusetts and ClearPoint Neuro, as well as partnerships with Brammer Bio and Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies to advance its gene therapy programs. Founded in 2013 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Voyager Therapeutics is committed to addressing unmet medical needs within the central nervous system.

Kura Oncology

Venture Round in 2015
Kura Oncology is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Diego, California, focused on developing targeted therapies for cancer treatment. The company’s primary product candidate, Tipifarnib, is an orally available farnesyl transferase inhibitor currently undergoing Phase II clinical trials for solid tumors, peripheral T-cell lymphomas, and various hematologic malignancies. In addition to Tipifarnib, Kura is advancing other small molecule candidates, including KO-947, which targets dysregulated extracellular signal-related kinases, and KO-539, aimed at inhibiting the menin-mixed lineage leukemia protein interaction. Kura Oncology emphasizes precision medicine, leveraging insights from cancer genomics to create targeted treatments for patients with specific genetic profiles, addressing significant unmet medical needs across various cancer types, including lung, colorectal, thyroid, pancreatic cancers, and blood cancers such as lymphoma and leukemia. The company was founded in 2014 and operates primarily within the United States.

Theranos

Private Equity Round in 2015
Theranos, Inc. is a biotechnology company founded in 2003 by Elizabeth Holmes, based in Palo Alto, California. It operated clinical laboratories in Arizona, California, and Pennsylvania, focusing on oncology, pediatrics, and geriatrics. Theranos claimed to have developed a proprietary technology that could conduct a wide range of blood tests using only a few drops of blood obtained through a fingerstick, positioning itself as a revolutionary player in blood testing. However, in 2015, investigative reporting raised significant concerns regarding the accuracy and reliability of its technology, leading to allegations that the company misled investors, patients, and medical professionals. Further inquiries revealed that the capabilities of Theranos' blood-testing technology were not as robust as claimed, undermining its business model and reputation in the healthcare sector.

Blueprint Medicines

Series C in 2014
Blueprint Medicines Corporation is a biopharmaceutical company that specializes in developing small molecule kinase inhibitors aimed at treating genomically defined cancers and rare diseases. Founded in 2008 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company focuses on personalized cancer therapies by leveraging its proprietary chemical library and advanced research capabilities. Its key drug candidates include avapritinib for systemic mastocytosis and gastrointestinal stromal tumors, and pralsetinib for RET-altered non-small cell lung cancer and medullary thyroid carcinoma. Additionally, Blueprint Medicines is advancing BLU-263, a KIT inhibitor for mast cell disorders, and fisogatinib for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma, both currently in clinical trials. The company’s innovative approach seeks to address the molecular drivers of cancer and resistance mechanisms, aiming to enhance treatment effectiveness and patient outcomes. Blueprint Medicines has established collaborations with several pharmaceutical companies to further its research and development efforts.

Civitas Therapeutics

Series C in 2014
Civitas Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing and commercializing innovative pulmonary delivery therapies. Utilizing its proprietary ARCUS technology, the company creates therapeutics aimed at treating central nervous system and respiratory disorders. Civitas Therapeutics serves patients across the United States, focusing on delivering transformative treatment options to improve health outcomes.
Spot something off? Help us improve by flagging any incorrect or outdated information. Just email us at support@teaserclub.com. Your feedback is most welcome.