Erasca, Inc. is a clinical-stage precision oncology company based in San Diego, California, focused on discovering and developing therapies for patients with cancers driven by the RAS/MAPK pathway. Founded in 2018, the company employs an artificial intelligence drug discovery platform known as OPRA, which utilizes machine learning to analyze large-scale data sets and identify novel tumor biology, thereby accelerating drug development. Erasca is developing a pipeline of oncology drugs, including Naporafenib, an innovative pan-RAF inhibitor aimed at treating NRAS-mutant melanoma and other RAS/MAPK-driven tumors. Additionally, the company is advancing ERAS-007, an oral ERK1/2 inhibitor, and ERAS-601, an oral SHP2 inhibitor, targeting key nodes in the RAS/MAPK signaling pathway. Through its research and collaborations, Erasca aims to provide precision oncology options that offer potential solutions for treating and possibly curing cancer.
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. Founded in 2016, the company is advancing its proprietary Agonist Redirected Checkpoint (ARC) platform, which utilizes dual-function fusion proteins to enhance immune responses against tumors. Its lead product candidate, SL-172154, is currently undergoing Phase 1 clinical trials for ovarian cancer, aiming to inhibit the CD47/SIRPa checkpoint interaction while activating the CD40 receptor to restore and amplify anti-tumor immune responses. Additionally, Shattuck Labs is collaborating with Takeda Pharmaceuticals on SL-279252, which targets the PD-1/PD-L1 interaction and activates the OX40 receptor, and is also in Phase 1 trials for patients with advanced solid tumors and lymphoma. Through its innovative approach to immuno-oncology, Shattuck Labs seeks to address various cancer types and improve treatment options for patients.
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 is an AI startup focused on enhancing surgical practices through advanced healthcare technology. Founded in 2019 and based in San Francisco, California, the company utilizes artificial intelligence and computer vision to collect and analyze data from operating rooms. By digitizing the surgical environment, Apella aims to improve operational efficiency, surgical quality, and training, while also facilitating real-time decision-making for surgeons and medical staff. Its innovative approach seeks to generate new insights that contribute to better outcomes in surgical procedures.
Outset Medical
Series E in 2020
Outset Medical, Inc. is a medical technology company based in San Jose, California, focused on innovating dialysis solutions for patients and healthcare providers. The company has developed the Tablo system, a hemodialysis machine designed for both acute and chronic care settings. Tablo features a compact console with integrated water purification, on-demand dialysate production, and advanced connectivity capabilities, including wireless data and sensor-based automation. This design aims to simplify the complexities and costs associated with dialysis, making it suitable for use in hospitals, dialysis clinics, and home settings. Originally founded as Home Dialysis Plus, Ltd. in 2003, the company rebranded to Outset Medical, Inc. in January 2015.
Avidity Biosciences
Series C in 2019
Avidity Biosciences, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in La Jolla, California, specializing in the development of oligonucleotide-based therapies, particularly through its innovative Antibody Oligonucleotide Conjugates (AOC) platform. This technology aims to address the limitations of traditional oligonucleotide therapies by combining the tissue selectivity of monoclonal antibodies with the precision of oligonucleotide treatments. Avidity's lead product candidate, AOC 1001, targets myotonic dystrophy type 1, a rare genetic muscle disease. In addition to this, the company is advancing multiple programs focused on muscle-related conditions, including muscle atrophy, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy, and Pompe disease. Furthermore, Avidity is expanding its research to include immune and other cell types, positioning itself at the forefront of biopharmaceutical innovation for serious diseases.
Karuna Therapeutics
Series B in 2019
Karuna Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, that specializes in developing innovative therapies for neuropsychiatric disorders and pain management. The company is advancing its lead product candidate, KarXT, an oral modulator that has completed a Phase II clinical trial for acute psychosis in schizophrenia and is undergoing Phase Ib trials for various central nervous system disorders, including the cognitive and negative symptoms associated with schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, and dementia-related psychosis. Karuna Therapeutics is also actively developing a pipeline of muscarinic-targeted drug candidates to address unmet medical needs in these challenging areas. Founded in 2009, the company has established partnerships and licensing agreements to support its drug discovery efforts and to enhance its research capabilities.
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 dialysis solutions for patients and healthcare providers. The company has developed the Tablo system, a hemodialysis machine designed for both acute and chronic care settings. Tablo features a compact console with integrated water purification, on-demand dialysate production, and advanced connectivity capabilities, including wireless data and sensor-based automation. This design aims to simplify the complexities and costs associated with dialysis, making it suitable for use in hospitals, dialysis clinics, and home settings. Originally founded as Home Dialysis Plus, Ltd. in 2003, the company rebranded to Outset Medical, Inc. in January 2015.
Cytrellis Biosystems
Series B in 2018
Cytrellis Biosystems, Inc. is a clinical stage medical technology company focused on designing and developing innovative devices for dermatology, scar reduction, and aesthetic medicine. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Sherborn, Massachusetts, the company aims to address age-related skin changes through non-surgical solutions. Its products are specifically engineered to remove sagging skin without the need for invasive procedures or scarring, thereby offering aesthetic practitioners enhanced capabilities to improve the appearance of aging skin. Cytrellis Biosystems is dedicated to advancing the field of aesthetic medicine with its cutting-edge technologies.
Unity Biotechnology
Series C in 2018
Unity Biotechnology, Inc. is a biotechnology company dedicated to the research and development of therapeutics aimed at extending human health span by addressing age-related diseases. The company specializes in clearing senescent cells through the creation of senolytic medicines, which specifically target vulnerabilities unique to these cells while sparing healthy ones. Its lead drug candidates include UBX0101, currently in Phase II clinical trials for musculoskeletal conditions like osteoarthritis, and UBX1325, which is in Phase I trials for diabetic macular edema. Additionally, Unity is developing treatments for various conditions related to aging, including pulmonary and neurological disorders, as well as kidney and liver diseases. Founded in 2009 and headquartered in South San Francisco, California, Unity Biotechnology was previously known as Forge, Inc. before changing its name in 2015.
Aptinyx Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Evanston, Illinois, that specializes in discovering and developing innovative therapies for disorders of the brain and nervous system. Founded in 2015, the company focuses on proprietary synthetic small molecules that modulate the NMDA receptor, enhancing nerve cell communication. Aptinyx's pipeline includes NYX-2925, which is in Phase II clinical development for painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy and fibromyalgia, and NYX-783, currently in Phase I trials for post-traumatic stress disorder. Additionally, NYX-458, another NMDA receptor modulator, is undergoing Phase I studies aimed at treating cognitive impairment associated with Parkinson's disease. The company also collaborates with Allergan plc to develop a compound for major depressive disorder, highlighting its commitment to addressing significant unmet medical needs in the central nervous system arena.
Allakos Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company founded in 2012 and headquartered in Redwood City, California. The company focuses on developing antibody-based therapeutics aimed at treating diseases associated with dysregulation of the T-helper type 2 immune response, which plays a crucial role in various allergic and inflammatory conditions. Its lead product, antolimab (AK002), is being investigated for the treatment of eosinophilic gastritis, eosinophilic gastroenteritis, chronic urticaria, indolent systemic mastocytosis, and severe allergic conjunctivitis. Additionally, Allakos is developing AK006, an antibody that targets the Siglec-6 receptor on mast cells, designed to activate the receptor's inhibitory function and reduce mast cell activation. Through these innovative therapies, Allakos aims to address the underlying mechanisms of diseases characterized by excessive inflammatory responses.
Neon Therapeutics
Series B in 2017
Neon Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company specializing in neoantigen-targeted therapies aimed at revolutionizing cancer treatment. By harnessing the immune system's ability to recognize and attack neoantigens, the company seeks to develop innovative therapies that improve patient outcomes. Its product pipeline includes NEO-PV-01, NEO-PTC-01, and NEO-SV-01, which are designed to enhance the immune response against tumors. Through its focused research and development efforts, Neon Therapeutics is committed to advancing the field of immuno-oncology and providing new options for cancer patients.
Unity Biotechnology
Series B in 2017
Unity Biotechnology, Inc. is a biotechnology company dedicated to the research and development of therapeutics aimed at extending human health span by addressing age-related diseases. The company specializes in clearing senescent cells through the creation of senolytic medicines, which specifically target vulnerabilities unique to these cells while sparing healthy ones. Its lead drug candidates include UBX0101, currently in Phase II clinical trials for musculoskeletal conditions like osteoarthritis, and UBX1325, which is in Phase I trials for diabetic macular edema. Additionally, Unity is developing treatments for various conditions related to aging, including pulmonary and neurological disorders, as well as kidney and liver diseases. Founded in 2009 and headquartered in South San Francisco, California, Unity Biotechnology was previously known as Forge, Inc. before changing its name 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 dialysis solutions for patients and healthcare providers. The company has developed the Tablo system, a hemodialysis machine designed for both acute and chronic care settings. Tablo features a compact console with integrated water purification, on-demand dialysate production, and advanced connectivity capabilities, including wireless data and sensor-based automation. This design aims to simplify the complexities and costs associated with dialysis, making it suitable for use in hospitals, dialysis clinics, and home settings. Originally founded as Home Dialysis Plus, Ltd. in 2003, the company rebranded to Outset Medical, Inc. in January 2015.
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 revolutionizing cancer treatment. By harnessing the immune system's ability to recognize and attack neoantigens, the company seeks to develop innovative therapies that improve patient outcomes. Its product pipeline includes NEO-PV-01, NEO-PTC-01, and NEO-SV-01, which are designed to enhance the immune response against tumors. Through its focused research and development efforts, Neon Therapeutics is committed to advancing the field of immuno-oncology and providing new options for cancer patients.
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, Inc. is a late-stage clinical biopharmaceutical company based in Newton, Massachusetts, focused on the development and commercialization of innovative oral enzyme therapeutics for rare and severe metabolic and kidney disorders. Founded in 2011, the company’s lead product candidate, reloxaliase, is currently undergoing a pivotal Phase 3 clinical program aimed at treating enteric hyperoxaluria, a condition characterized by elevated urinary oxalate levels that can lead to kidney stones and chronic kidney disease. Additionally, Allena is developing ALLN-346, a novel enzyme intended to address hyperuricemia in patients with moderate to severe chronic kidney diseases. By targeting metabolic disorders associated with the accumulation of harmful metabolites, Allena Pharmaceuticals aims to provide effective treatments for patients facing serious health challenges.
Afferent Pharmaceuticals
Series C in 2015
Afferent Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Mateo, California, focused on developing innovative medicines for chronic pain management and neurogenic disorders. The company specializes in targeting P2X3 receptors found in nerve fibers, creating small molecule compounds designed to address conditions such as osteoarthritis, back pain, visceral pain, and neuropathy. Afferent's lead compound, AF-219, has successfully completed two Phase 1 clinical studies, positioning the company to advance its portfolio of therapeutics aimed at improving the quality of life for patients suffering from various pain-related ailments. Founded in 2009, Afferent Pharmaceuticals is dedicated to advancing the understanding and treatment of chronic pain through scientific innovation.
Outset Medical
Debt Financing in 2015
Outset Medical, Inc. is a medical technology company based in San Jose, California, focused on innovating dialysis solutions for patients and healthcare providers. The company has developed the Tablo system, a hemodialysis machine designed for both acute and chronic care settings. Tablo features a compact console with integrated water purification, on-demand dialysate production, and advanced connectivity capabilities, including wireless data and sensor-based automation. This design aims to simplify the complexities and costs associated with dialysis, making it suitable for use in hospitals, dialysis clinics, and home settings. Originally founded as Home Dialysis Plus, Ltd. in 2003, the company rebranded to Outset Medical, Inc. in January 2015.
Dimension Therapeutics
Series B in 2015
Dimension Therapeutics, Inc. is a gene therapy company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, specializing in the development of innovative treatments for rare and metabolic diseases associated with the liver. Founded in 2013, the company has a robust pipeline of gene therapy programs, including DTX101 and DTX201 for hemophilia B and A, respectively. Additionally, its portfolio encompasses DTX301 for ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency, DTX401 for glycogen storage disease type Ia, DTX501 for phenylketonuria, DTX701 for Wilson disease, and DTX601 for citrullinemia type I. Dimension Therapeutics collaborates with REGENX Biosciences, gaining access to a significant portfolio of patents related to adeno-associated virus (AAV) therapeutics. This collaboration supports the company's aim to advance its gene therapy platform and enhance its product development capabilities in the treatment of rare diseases. Dimension Therapeutics operates as a subsidiary of Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical Inc. since November 2017.
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. The company’s lead clinical candidate, VY-AADC, is currently undergoing an open-label Phase 1b trial for Parkinson’s disease. Its diverse preclinical pipeline includes candidates for various conditions, such as VY-SOD102 for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, VY-HTT01 for Huntington’s disease, VY-FXN01 for Friedreich’s ataxia, and programs targeting tauopathies and synucleinopathies, which encompass Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders. Voyager Therapeutics employs a gene therapy platform known as TRACER, which enables the engineering and optimization of adeno-associated virus (AAV) therapies aimed at producing lasting therapeutic effects from a single treatment. The company collaborates with several institutions, including the University of Massachusetts and ClearPoint Neuro, as well as industry partners like Brammer Bio and Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, to enhance its gene therapy initiatives. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Voyager Therapeutics is committed to addressing unmet medical needs in 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. The company operated clinical laboratories in Arizona, California, and Pennsylvania, specializing in blood testing, particularly in the fields of oncology, pediatrics, and geriatrics. Theranos claimed to have developed a proprietary technology that could conduct a wide range of tests using only a few drops of blood obtained through a fingerstick, aiming to revolutionize the blood-testing process. However, in 2015, investigative reports raised significant concerns regarding the accuracy and reliability of its technology, alleging that the company misled investors, patients, and healthcare professionals about its capabilities. Subsequent investigations confirmed that Theranos' technology was not as effective as claimed, leading to a decline in its credibility and operations.
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 the development and commercialization of innovative pulmonary delivery therapies aimed at treating central nervous system and respiratory disorders. Utilizing its proprietary ARCUS technology, Civitas aims to transform the therapeutic landscape for patients across the United States. The company's focus is on creating effective treatments that enhance patient outcomes and address unmet medical needs in these critical areas.