Polaris Partners, established in 1996 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, is a venture capital firm focusing on healthcare, life sciences, and biotechnology sectors. The firm invests across various stages, from early-stage companies to growth equity, partnering with repeat entrepreneurs and innovators. Polaris' healthcare portfolio spans digital health, consumer-centric businesses, patient-provider solutions, data science, and analytics, while its life sciences and biotechnology investments center around molecules, platforms, therapeutics, and genomics. With offices in Boston and San Francisco, Polaris has a 20-year history of supporting companies that improve people's lives and work.
Auron Therapeutics is a biotechnology company based in Wellesley, Massachusetts, dedicated to developing innovative therapies for cancer. Founded in 2018, the company aims to transform the treatment paradigm by shifting from traditional cell-killing approaches to differentiation therapy, which seeks to convert malignant cells into normal functioning cells. This strategy reactivates the body's inherent cellular programs to promote tumor maturation and restore normal tissue. Auron Therapeutics utilizes advanced platforms that integrate large omic datasets with high-throughput flow cytometry, enabling the rapid identification and validation of multiple therapeutic targets and drugs using primary human patient samples. Through its research, the company aspires to address unmet medical needs in oncology and provide life-saving treatments for cancer patients.
Leyden Labs
Series B in 2025
Leyden Labs is a biotechnology company focused on developing intranasal products aimed at protecting individuals from respiratory viruses. By targeting commonalities among various viral families, Leyden Labs seeks to provide broad-spectrum protection against multiple strains of viruses, including those in the influenza and coronavirus families. Unlike traditional vaccines that typically address specific variants, Leyden Labs' innovative approach allows for simultaneous protection against a range of viruses, thereby empowering individuals to safeguard their health and prevent the transmission of diseases. The company's team comprises experienced biotechnology professionals and new talent, all committed to advancing solutions that alleviate the impact of respiratory infections on global health.
Noema Pharma
Series B in 2024
Noema Pharma AG is a biotechnology company based in Basel, Switzerland, founded in 2019. The company focuses on developing therapeutic products and therapies for orphan neurological disorders characterized by imbalanced neuronal networks. Its research and development efforts aim to address disabling symptoms in conditions affecting the nervous system, including Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, Trigeminal Neuralgia, and Tourette syndrome. By creating novel therapies, Noema Pharma seeks to improve the quality of life and patient outcomes for individuals suffering from these rare conditions.
Sunbird Bio
Venture Round in 2024
Sunbird Bio is a diagnostics platform developer focused on advancing molecular diagnostics to deliver faster and more accurate results. Founded by Huilin Shao, the company specializes in detecting a wide array of diseases, including infectious diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. By enabling early diagnosis, Sunbird Bio aims to enhance healthcare outcomes and support physicians in making informed decisions. The platform is designed to improve clarity and accessibility in diagnostic testing, thereby contributing to better patient care.
Livara
Series B in 2024
Livara Health specializes in non-operative, personalized treatment for musculoskeletal conditions, focusing primarily on back and neck pain. The company has developed an orthopedic care management platform that provides a comprehensive, data-driven approach to pain relief. This platform assesses patients' needs and customizes a six-week treatment program, which includes physical therapy coaching and addiction treatment options. Livara aims to help individuals alleviate their musculoskeletal issues through both online and onsite therapy, eliminating the need for surgical interventions.
Seismic Therapeutic
Series B in 2023
Seismic Therapeutic is a biotechnology company focused on accelerating immunology drug development through the integration of machine learning in the biologics discovery process. Its IMPACT™ platform addresses key challenges in biologics discovery by combining structural biology, protein engineering, and translational immunology. This innovative approach aims to create optimized therapies more efficiently, ultimately benefiting patients with autoimmune diseases and disorders linked to adaptive immune system dysregulation. With a robust pipeline of biologics, Seismic Therapeutic is committed to enhancing the speed and efficacy of drug development in the field of immunology.
EpiBiologics
Series A in 2023
EpiBiologics focuses on developing antibody-based targeted therapies aimed at membrane and extracellular proteins that contribute to various diseases. The company utilizes its EpiTAC platform to create therapeutics that degrade these disease-driving proteins, addressing the underlying biology of disorders. By specializing in protein degradation, EpiBiologics enables researchers to manipulate cellular proteostasis, offering potential solutions for a wide range of medical conditions.
Larkspur Biosciences
Series A in 2023
Larkspur Biosciences is a biotechnology company dedicated to developing precision immunotherapies aimed at improving cancer treatment outcomes. The company focuses on addressing how tumors manipulate the immune system, creating therapies tailored for specific molecularly defined patient groups. By targeting the critical interactions between tumors and the immune system, Larkspur's approach seeks to enhance patients' immune responses, particularly in colorectal cancer and other malignancies. This strategic focus aims to overcome existing challenges that allow tumors to evade immune detection and attack, thereby advancing the efficacy of cancer therapies.
EpiBiologics
Series A in 2023
EpiBiologics focuses on developing antibody-based targeted therapies aimed at membrane and extracellular proteins that contribute to various diseases. The company utilizes its EpiTAC platform to create therapeutics that degrade these disease-driving proteins, addressing the underlying biology of disorders. By specializing in protein degradation, EpiBiologics enables researchers to manipulate cellular proteostasis, offering potential solutions for a wide range of medical conditions.
QurAlis
Series B in 2023
QurAlis Corporation is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing therapeutics for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other neurodegenerative diseases. Based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company utilizes proprietary platforms and biomarkers to create precision medicines targeting genetically validated disease-causing alterations. Its pipeline includes various treatments aimed at specific subtypes of ALS, such as therapies designed to restore dysfunctional cellular waste clearance, manage overactive neurons to prevent cell death, and eliminate toxic proteins. QurAlis aims to advance its antisense oligonucleotides and small molecule programs to address the most prevalent forms of ALS, ultimately working to halt disease progression and improve patient outcomes. The company was incorporated in 2016 and operates as a subsidiary of Q-State Biosciences, Inc.
Noema Pharma
Series B in 2023
Noema Pharma AG is a biotechnology company based in Basel, Switzerland, founded in 2019. The company focuses on developing therapeutic products and therapies for orphan neurological disorders characterized by imbalanced neuronal networks. Its research and development efforts aim to address disabling symptoms in conditions affecting the nervous system, including Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, Trigeminal Neuralgia, and Tourette syndrome. By creating novel therapies, Noema Pharma seeks to improve the quality of life and patient outcomes for individuals suffering from these rare conditions.
Faro Health
Series A in 2023
Faro Health is a developer of a cloud-based medical platform aimed at addressing the complexities of clinical trials. The platform standardizes, automates, and streamlines various challenges associated with clinical studies. By utilizing an integrated clinical development environment, Faro Health simplifies the design and authoring of complex clinical protocols. This system leverages advanced digital protocols to provide intuitive insights during the authoring process, allowing clinical researchers to focus on critical decisions that enhance clinical value while minimizing administrative burdens.
Jnana Therapeutics
Series C in 2022
Jnana Therapeutics Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Boston, Massachusetts, that focuses on drug discovery through its innovative platform targeting solute carrier (SLC) transporters. Established in 2016, the company aims to improve patient outcomes by developing small molecule therapies for various diseases, including those related to immunometabolism, lysosomal function, and mucosal defense. By utilizing advanced chemoproteomics techniques, Jnana accelerates the identification of therapeutic targets, addressing significant unmet medical needs in areas such as immuno-oncology, inflammatory disorders, and neurological diseases. The company's approach seeks to enhance drug discovery efficiency by comprehensively targeting the vast family of membrane proteins associated with SLC transporters.
Neumora Therapeutics
Series B in 2022
Neumora Therapeutics operates as a clinical-stage biotechnology company pioneering precision medicines for brain diseases through the integration of data science and neuroscience.
CAMP4 Therapeutics
Series B in 2022
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.
Auron Therapeutics
Series A in 2022
Auron Therapeutics is a biotechnology company based in Wellesley, Massachusetts, dedicated to developing innovative therapies for cancer. Founded in 2018, the company aims to transform the treatment paradigm by shifting from traditional cell-killing approaches to differentiation therapy, which seeks to convert malignant cells into normal functioning cells. This strategy reactivates the body's inherent cellular programs to promote tumor maturation and restore normal tissue. Auron Therapeutics utilizes advanced platforms that integrate large omic datasets with high-throughput flow cytometry, enabling the rapid identification and validation of multiple therapeutic targets and drugs using primary human patient samples. Through its research, the company aspires to address unmet medical needs in oncology and provide life-saving treatments for cancer patients.
Scholar Rock
Post in 2022
Scholar Rock is a biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing innovative therapies that target dysregulated growth factors within disease microenvironments. Founded in 2012 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company employs a proprietary platform to create monoclonal antibodies that selectively modulate the activation of these signaling proteins. This approach aims to avoid traditional challenges associated with growth factor inhibition while facilitating efficient drug development. Scholar Rock's lead product, SRK-015, is designed as a first-in-class inhibitor of myostatin activation, targeting conditions such as spinal muscular atrophy. The company's pipeline includes additional candidates, such as SRK-181, which inhibits latent transforming growth factor beta-1 for cancer treatment. Scholar Rock's research focuses on serious diseases, including neuromuscular disorders, cancer, fibrosis, and autoimmune diseases, reflecting its commitment to transforming patient outcomes through targeted therapies.
Tessa Therapeutics
Series A in 2022
Tessa Therapeutics is a biotechnology company specializing in T cell therapy aimed at treating cancer, particularly solid tumors and lymphoma. The company focuses on developing both autologous and allogeneic cell therapies, including virus-specific T-cells and CAR T cells. Tessa Therapeutics aims to harness the body's anti-viral immune response to target and eliminate cancer cells, thereby transforming cancer treatment and enhancing the quality of life for patients. Through its innovative platform, Tessa Therapeutics is committed to advancing therapeutic options for healthcare providers and improving patient outcomes in the fight against cancer.
Kallyope
Series D in 2022
Kallyope Inc. is a biotechnology company based in New York City that focuses on the gut-brain axis to develop innovative therapeutics and consumer products aimed at enhancing human health. Founded in 2014, Kallyope employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating technologies such as sequencing, computational biology, neural imaging, and human genetics to deepen the understanding of gut-brain biology. This comprehensive understanding enables the company to create effective and well-tolerated oral medications targeting various health issues, including diabetes, obesity, gut disorders, inflammatory diseases, migraines, and allergies. With a team of experienced scientists and a strong foundation in drug discovery, Kallyope aims to address significant unmet medical needs through its research and development efforts.
Seismic Therapeutic
Series A in 2022
Seismic Therapeutic is a biotechnology company focused on accelerating immunology drug development through the integration of machine learning in the biologics discovery process. Its IMPACT™ platform addresses key challenges in biologics discovery by combining structural biology, protein engineering, and translational immunology. This innovative approach aims to create optimized therapies more efficiently, ultimately benefiting patients with autoimmune diseases and disorders linked to adaptive immune system dysregulation. With a robust pipeline of biologics, Seismic Therapeutic is committed to enhancing the speed and efficacy of drug development in the field of immunology.
Dewpoint Therapeutics
Series C in 2022
Dewpoint Therapeutics is a Boston-based biotech company focused on the research and development of treatments targeting biomolecular condensates to address various diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and immunological conditions. Founded in 2018, the company employs an innovative drug platform that utilizes machine-learning-based image analysis for visualizing condensates. This technology supports an engine of engineered cell lines designed to track and mitigate harmful protein sequestration. By leveraging its proprietary platform, Dewpoint seeks to facilitate drug discovery across a wide range of medical indications and collaborates with leading academic and pharmaceutical partners to enhance the accessibility of new therapies for unmet healthcare needs.
76Bio
Venture Round in 2022
76Bio is a biotechnology company based in New York that focuses on developing innovative therapies for patients with life-threatening diseases. Founded in 2020, the company specializes in targeted protein degraders, a class of therapeutics designed to selectively degrade unneeded proteins in the body. By leveraging advanced technology, 76Bio aims to create transformational treatments that address critical medical needs, offering hope for improved outcomes in patients suffering from serious health conditions.
Neumora Therapeutics
Series A in 2021
Neumora Therapeutics operates as a clinical-stage biotechnology company pioneering precision medicines for brain diseases through the integration of data science and neuroscience.
Jnana Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Jnana Therapeutics Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Boston, Massachusetts, that focuses on drug discovery through its innovative platform targeting solute carrier (SLC) transporters. Established in 2016, the company aims to improve patient outcomes by developing small molecule therapies for various diseases, including those related to immunometabolism, lysosomal function, and mucosal defense. By utilizing advanced chemoproteomics techniques, Jnana accelerates the identification of therapeutic targets, addressing significant unmet medical needs in areas such as immuno-oncology, inflammatory disorders, and neurological diseases. The company's approach seeks to enhance drug discovery efficiency by comprehensively targeting the vast family of membrane proteins associated with SLC transporters.
CAMP4 Therapeutics
Series A in 2021
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.
Faro Health
Series A in 2021
Faro Health is a developer of a cloud-based medical platform aimed at addressing the complexities of clinical trials. The platform standardizes, automates, and streamlines various challenges associated with clinical studies. By utilizing an integrated clinical development environment, Faro Health simplifies the design and authoring of complex clinical protocols. This system leverages advanced digital protocols to provide intuitive insights during the authoring process, allowing clinical researchers to focus on critical decisions that enhance clinical value while minimizing administrative burdens.
Cyclerion Therapeutics
Post in 2021
Cyclerion Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on discovering, developing, and commercializing treatments for serious and orphan diseases. The company leverages soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) pharmacology to create next-generation sGC stimulators. Its pipeline includes Olinciguat, an orally administered vascular sGC stimulator in Phase II studies for sickle cell disease; Praliciguat, another oral sGC stimulator in Phase II trials for diabetic nephropathy and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction; and IW-6463, a CNS-penetrant sGC stimulator in Phase I trials for neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, Cyclerion is exploring liver-targeted and lung-targeted sGC stimulators. The company was incorporated in 2018.
Hummingbird Bioscience
Series C in 2021
Hummingbird Bioscience is a biotechnology company specializing in the development of novel therapeutic antibodies for oncology and immuno-oncology indications. Utilizing systems biology approaches and proprietary computational platforms, they discover and engineer innovative biotherapeutics targeting challenging disease pathways with strong biological validation. Their pipeline includes lead assets HMBD-001 (anti-HER3) and HMBD-002 (anti-VISTA), both in cancer treatment. The company has formed strategic partnerships with Cancer Research UK and Amgen, and received a product development grant from the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas.
Invivyd
Series C in 2021
Invivyd is a biopharmaceutical company committed to developing antibody-based therapies aimed at providing protection against serious viral infectious diseases. The company focuses on creating solutions that go beyond naturally occurring immunity, particularly in response to viral threats with pandemic potential, starting with SARS-CoV-2. Its product pipeline includes ADG20, which is designed for the treatment and prevention of COVID-19, and VYD222, a monoclonal antibody engineered for enhanced potency and broad coverage. By prioritizing rapid and enduring therapeutic options, Invivyd aims to safeguard vulnerable populations from the severe impacts of circulating viral infections.
Tectonic Therapeutic
Series A in 2021
Tectonic Therapeutic is a biotechnology company dedicated to the discovery and development of innovative drugs that target G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). With a focus on therapeutic proteins and antibodies, Tectonic aims to address the complexities of GPCR-targeted drug discovery through its proprietary technology platform, GEODe. The company is committed to unlocking the therapeutic potential of challenging receptors, striving to create biologic medicines that can effectively modify disease progression. Founded by experts in biochemistry and molecular pharmacology, Tectonic combines a strong scientific foundation with a history of entrepreneurial success to advance its mission in the biopharmaceutical landscape.
Amunix
Series B in 2021
Amunix Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to discovering and developing innovative protein and peptide therapeutics aimed at treating cancer. The company employs several proprietary platforms, including XTEN for extending drug half-life, XPAT for analyzing protease activity in the tumor microenvironment, and ProTIA, which focuses on immuno-oncology therapeutics. Amunix's product pipeline includes prodrugs and transformative T-cell engagers designed to activate the immune system against solid tumors. The company collaborates with various academic, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical sectors, maintaining strategic partnerships with organizations such as Janssen and Biogen-Idec. Founded in 2006 and headquartered in Mountain View, California, Amunix strives to deliver breakthroughs that can harness the immune system to combat cancer more effectively.
Livara
Series A in 2021
Livara Health specializes in non-operative, personalized treatment for musculoskeletal conditions, focusing primarily on back and neck pain. The company has developed an orthopedic care management platform that provides a comprehensive, data-driven approach to pain relief. This platform assesses patients' needs and customizes a six-week treatment program, which includes physical therapy coaching and addiction treatment options. Livara aims to help individuals alleviate their musculoskeletal issues through both online and onsite therapy, eliminating the need for surgical interventions.
Auron Therapeutics
Seed Round in 2021
Auron Therapeutics is a biotechnology company based in Wellesley, Massachusetts, dedicated to developing innovative therapies for cancer. Founded in 2018, the company aims to transform the treatment paradigm by shifting from traditional cell-killing approaches to differentiation therapy, which seeks to convert malignant cells into normal functioning cells. This strategy reactivates the body's inherent cellular programs to promote tumor maturation and restore normal tissue. Auron Therapeutics utilizes advanced platforms that integrate large omic datasets with high-throughput flow cytometry, enabling the rapid identification and validation of multiple therapeutic targets and drugs using primary human patient samples. Through its research, the company aspires to address unmet medical needs in oncology and provide life-saving treatments for cancer patients.
Tectonic Therapeutic
Seed Round in 2021
Tectonic Therapeutic is a biotechnology company dedicated to the discovery and development of innovative drugs that target G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). With a focus on therapeutic proteins and antibodies, Tectonic aims to address the complexities of GPCR-targeted drug discovery through its proprietary technology platform, GEODe. The company is committed to unlocking the therapeutic potential of challenging receptors, striving to create biologic medicines that can effectively modify disease progression. Founded by experts in biochemistry and molecular pharmacology, Tectonic combines a strong scientific foundation with a history of entrepreneurial success to advance its mission in the biopharmaceutical landscape.
Noema Pharma
Series A in 2020
Noema Pharma AG is a biotechnology company based in Basel, Switzerland, founded in 2019. The company focuses on developing therapeutic products and therapies for orphan neurological disorders characterized by imbalanced neuronal networks. Its research and development efforts aim to address disabling symptoms in conditions affecting the nervous system, including Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, Trigeminal Neuralgia, and Tourette syndrome. By creating novel therapies, Noema Pharma seeks to improve the quality of life and patient outcomes for individuals suffering from these rare conditions.
Invivyd
Series B in 2020
Invivyd is a biopharmaceutical company committed to developing antibody-based therapies aimed at providing protection against serious viral infectious diseases. The company focuses on creating solutions that go beyond naturally occurring immunity, particularly in response to viral threats with pandemic potential, starting with SARS-CoV-2. Its product pipeline includes ADG20, which is designed for the treatment and prevention of COVID-19, and VYD222, a monoclonal antibody engineered for enhanced potency and broad coverage. By prioritizing rapid and enduring therapeutic options, Invivyd aims to safeguard vulnerable populations from the severe impacts of circulating viral infections.
Dewpoint Therapeutics
Series B in 2020
Dewpoint Therapeutics is a Boston-based biotech company focused on the research and development of treatments targeting biomolecular condensates to address various diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and immunological conditions. Founded in 2018, the company employs an innovative drug platform that utilizes machine-learning-based image analysis for visualizing condensates. This technology supports an engine of engineered cell lines designed to track and mitigate harmful protein sequestration. By leveraging its proprietary platform, Dewpoint seeks to facilitate drug discovery across a wide range of medical indications and collaborates with leading academic and pharmaceutical partners to enhance the accessibility of new therapies for unmet healthcare needs.
Neogene Therapeutics
Series A in 2020
Neogene Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in New York, founded in 2018, that focuses on developing T cell therapies for cancer treatment. The company specializes in creating personalized engineered T cells that target neo-antigens, which are mutated proteins present in cancer cells due to DNA mutations. By leveraging advanced technologies, Neogene isolates T cell receptor (TCR) genes specific to these neo-antigens from tumor biopsies routinely collected from patients. This process utilizes high-sensitivity DNA sequencing and genetic screening to identify TCRs that can effectively recognize and attack cancer cells. Neogene's innovative approach aims to enhance the precision and efficacy of cancer therapies, offering improved treatment options for patients facing a broad spectrum of cancers.
Kronos Bio
Private Equity Round in 2020
Kronos Bio, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to discovering and developing innovative cancer therapeutics. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in San Mateo, California, the company focuses on targeting dysregulated transcription factors and oncogenic signaling pathways. Its lead candidate, entospletinib, is a selective inhibitor of spleen tyrosine kinase aimed at treating acute myeloid leukemia. Additionally, Kronos Bio is developing KB-0742, an orally bioavailable inhibitor of cyclin-dependent kinase 9, intended for MYC-amplified solid tumors. By leveraging advanced technologies such as high-throughput small-molecule microarrays and targeted protein degradation, Kronos Bio aims to identify effective compounds that can modulate historically undruggable cancer targets, ultimately striving to improve patient outcomes through precision medicine.
Invivyd
Series A in 2020
Invivyd is a biopharmaceutical company committed to developing antibody-based therapies aimed at providing protection against serious viral infectious diseases. The company focuses on creating solutions that go beyond naturally occurring immunity, particularly in response to viral threats with pandemic potential, starting with SARS-CoV-2. Its product pipeline includes ADG20, which is designed for the treatment and prevention of COVID-19, and VYD222, a monoclonal antibody engineered for enhanced potency and broad coverage. By prioritizing rapid and enduring therapeutic options, Invivyd aims to safeguard vulnerable populations from the severe impacts of circulating viral infections.
SQZ Biotech
Series D in 2020
SQZ Biotech is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative cell therapies for patients facing cancer, infectious diseases, and other serious health conditions. Utilizing its proprietary CellSqueeze technology, SQZ Biotech can deliver a variety of materials into diverse patient cell types, enabling the engineering of therapies that address a wide array of clinical challenges. The company aims to create well-tolerated cell therapies that not only enhance therapeutic benefits but also improve the overall patient experience compared to traditional cell therapy methods. Through a combination of internal research initiatives and external collaborations, SQZ Biotech is advancing a new generation of cellular therapies aimed at both immune activation and immune suppression.
QurAlis
Series A in 2020
QurAlis Corporation is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing therapeutics for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other neurodegenerative diseases. Based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company utilizes proprietary platforms and biomarkers to create precision medicines targeting genetically validated disease-causing alterations. Its pipeline includes various treatments aimed at specific subtypes of ALS, such as therapies designed to restore dysfunctional cellular waste clearance, manage overactive neurons to prevent cell death, and eliminate toxic proteins. QurAlis aims to advance its antisense oligonucleotides and small molecule programs to address the most prevalent forms of ALS, ultimately working to halt disease progression and improve patient outcomes. The company was incorporated in 2016 and operates as a subsidiary of Q-State Biosciences, Inc.
Pandion Therapeutics
Series B in 2020
Pandion Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative therapeutics for patients with autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions. The company's lead product candidate, PT101, is an engineered variant of interleukin-2 currently undergoing Phase 1a clinical trials for moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis and systemic lupus erythematosus. In addition to PT101, Pandion's pipeline includes PT627, a systemic PD-1 agonist in preclinical studies, and PT001 and PT002, which are bifunctional molecules designed for tissue-selective immunomodulation in the gastrointestinal tract. These molecules utilize a unique approach to achieve localized treatment, potentially enhancing efficacy and safety compared to traditional therapies. Pandion also collaborates with Astellas Pharma to develop locally acting immunomodulators targeting autoimmune diseases of the pancreas. The company is headquartered in Watertown, Massachusetts.
Kallyope
Series C in 2020
Kallyope Inc. is a biotechnology company based in New York City that focuses on the gut-brain axis to develop innovative therapeutics and consumer products aimed at enhancing human health. Founded in 2014, Kallyope employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating technologies such as sequencing, computational biology, neural imaging, and human genetics to deepen the understanding of gut-brain biology. This comprehensive understanding enables the company to create effective and well-tolerated oral medications targeting various health issues, including diabetes, obesity, gut disorders, inflammatory diseases, migraines, and allergies. With a team of experienced scientists and a strong foundation in drug discovery, Kallyope aims to address significant unmet medical needs through its research and development efforts.
Amagma Therapeutics
Series A in 2020
Amagma Therapeutics is a biotechnology company based in Waltham, Massachusetts, founded in 2019. The company focuses on the discovery and development of antibody therapeutics aimed at treating inflammatory diseases caused by enzyme hyperactivity. Specifically, Amagma targets overactive extracellular proteases that lead to tissue damage and contribute to widespread inflammatory responses. By addressing these mechanisms, the company aims to provide effective and safe therapeutic options for clinicians dealing with such conditions.
Lyra Therapeutics
Series C in 2020
Lyra Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage therapeutics company that specializes in developing and commercializing innovative drug and delivery solutions for the localized treatment of ear, nose, and throat diseases. Utilizing its proprietary XTreo technology platform, the company aims to deliver medications directly to affected tissues for extended periods with a single administration. Its lead product candidates, LYR-210 and LYR-220, are bioresorbable polymeric matrices designed for non-invasive in-office procedures, providing up to six months of continuous drug therapy specifically for chronic rhinosinusitis. The active ingredient in these formulations is mometasone furoate, which is recognized for its efficacy and safety in various FDA-approved therapies. Founded in 2005 and headquartered in Watertown, Massachusetts, Lyra Therapeutics was formerly known as 480 Biomedical, Inc. before rebranding in July 2018.
SQZ Biotech
Series D in 2019
SQZ Biotech is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative cell therapies for patients facing cancer, infectious diseases, and other serious health conditions. Utilizing its proprietary CellSqueeze technology, SQZ Biotech can deliver a variety of materials into diverse patient cell types, enabling the engineering of therapies that address a wide array of clinical challenges. The company aims to create well-tolerated cell therapies that not only enhance therapeutic benefits but also improve the overall patient experience compared to traditional cell therapy methods. Through a combination of internal research initiatives and external collaborations, SQZ Biotech is advancing a new generation of cellular therapies aimed at both immune activation and immune suppression.
Kronos Bio
Series A in 2019
Kronos Bio, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to discovering and developing innovative cancer therapeutics. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in San Mateo, California, the company focuses on targeting dysregulated transcription factors and oncogenic signaling pathways. Its lead candidate, entospletinib, is a selective inhibitor of spleen tyrosine kinase aimed at treating acute myeloid leukemia. Additionally, Kronos Bio is developing KB-0742, an orally bioavailable inhibitor of cyclin-dependent kinase 9, intended for MYC-amplified solid tumors. By leveraging advanced technologies such as high-throughput small-molecule microarrays and targeted protein degradation, Kronos Bio aims to identify effective compounds that can modulate historically undruggable cancer targets, ultimately striving to improve patient outcomes through precision medicine.
Blackthorn Therapeutics
Series B in 2019
Blackthorn Therapeutics, based in South San Francisco, California, is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing precision medicine for neurobehavioral disorders. Founded in 2013, the company utilizes a proprietary computational platform that integrates advances in computational and clinical neuroscience to better understand the relationship between brain function and behavior. By targeting dysfunctional brain circuits, Blackthorn aims to address longstanding challenges in drug discovery and development. The company’s approach involves identifying novel therapeutic targets, small molecule drug candidates, and biologically-based patient subgroups that are most likely to benefit from treatment, thereby enhancing the precision of therapeutic interventions in the central nervous system.
Cyclerion Therapeutics
Post in 2019
Cyclerion Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on discovering, developing, and commercializing treatments for serious and orphan diseases. The company leverages soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) pharmacology to create next-generation sGC stimulators. Its pipeline includes Olinciguat, an orally administered vascular sGC stimulator in Phase II studies for sickle cell disease; Praliciguat, another oral sGC stimulator in Phase II trials for diabetic nephropathy and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction; and IW-6463, a CNS-penetrant sGC stimulator in Phase I trials for neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, Cyclerion is exploring liver-targeted and lung-targeted sGC stimulators. The company was incorporated in 2018.
Africa Healthcare Network
Series A in 2019
Africa Healthcare Network (AHN) has pioneered the first dialysis chain in Sub-Saharan Africa, aimed at delivering affordable, high-quality dialysis services for patients suffering from Acute Kidney Injury and End-Stage Renal Disease. In a region where existing facilities are limited and often charge exorbitant fees, AHN addresses the critical shortage of accessible dialysis care. The organization leverages its technical expertise and practical experience to establish well-equipped centers, while also focusing on training healthcare professionals to enhance service delivery. As Chronic Kidney Disease and related health issues rise due to urbanization and lifestyle changes, AHN's model prioritizes operational efficiency and cost-effective sourcing of medical supplies, thereby reducing treatment costs for patients. Operating in Rwanda, Tanzania, and Kenya, AHN is committed to increasing access to life-saving dialysis care, ultimately improving patient outcomes while ensuring financial sustainability.
Dewpoint Therapeutics
Series A in 2019
Dewpoint Therapeutics is a Boston-based biotech company focused on the research and development of treatments targeting biomolecular condensates to address various diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and immunological conditions. Founded in 2018, the company employs an innovative drug platform that utilizes machine-learning-based image analysis for visualizing condensates. This technology supports an engine of engineered cell lines designed to track and mitigate harmful protein sequestration. By leveraging its proprietary platform, Dewpoint seeks to facilitate drug discovery across a wide range of medical indications and collaborates with leading academic and pharmaceutical partners to enhance the accessibility of new therapies for unmet healthcare needs.
Genetic Foresight
Venture Round in 2019
Genetic Foresight’s mission is to prevent adverse drug reactions, increase therapeutic success rates, and minimize healthcare costs by enabling clinicians to make informed decisions. Founded in 2016, Genetic Foresight provides a genetic test that sequences targeted segments of patients' genomes as well as a comprehensive prescription decision platform that incorporates drug-genome, drug-drug, drug-disease, personal health, lifestyle, and medical and family histories to predict drug response. This allows the clinician to more safely and effectively prescribe medication based on the patient. The report is updated based on newly generated research, newly created drugs, and newly prescribed drugs, making it a lifetime test.
Kallyope
Series B in 2018
Kallyope Inc. is a biotechnology company based in New York City that focuses on the gut-brain axis to develop innovative therapeutics and consumer products aimed at enhancing human health. Founded in 2014, Kallyope employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating technologies such as sequencing, computational biology, neural imaging, and human genetics to deepen the understanding of gut-brain biology. This comprehensive understanding enables the company to create effective and well-tolerated oral medications targeting various health issues, including diabetes, obesity, gut disorders, inflammatory diseases, migraines, and allergies. With a team of experienced scientists and a strong foundation in drug discovery, Kallyope aims to address significant unmet medical needs through its research and development efforts.
KSQ Therapeutics
Series C in 2018
KSQ Therapeutics, Inc., founded in 2015 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, specializes in precision functional genomics to discover innovative drug therapies. The company employs a novel approach to research and development that emphasizes de-risking prior to the creation of therapeutic candidates. Utilizing its proprietary CRISPRomics™ drug discovery engine, KSQ Therapeutics has mapped the functions of human genes across various diseases, enhancing its understanding of disease biology. This comprehensive insight enables the identification and validation of high-confidence, patient-specific drug targets. As a result, the company is focused on developing medicines that have significant potential to improve patient outcomes and has established a pipeline of preclinical discovery programs.
Morphic Therapeutic
Series B in 2018
Morphic Therapeutic is a biotechnology company focused on developing oral integrin therapies aimed at treating serious chronic diseases such as autoimmune disorders, cardiovascular conditions, metabolic diseases, fibrosis, and cancer. The company specializes in creating small molecule inhibitors that target various integrins. By leveraging insights into integrin biology, Morphic Therapeutic is building a pipeline of innovative therapeutics designed to address a range of immunological, fibrotic, neoplastic, and vascular diseases, thereby offering potential new treatment options for patients with significant unmet medical needs.
SQZ Biotech
Series C in 2018
SQZ Biotech is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative cell therapies for patients facing cancer, infectious diseases, and other serious health conditions. Utilizing its proprietary CellSqueeze technology, SQZ Biotech can deliver a variety of materials into diverse patient cell types, enabling the engineering of therapies that address a wide array of clinical challenges. The company aims to create well-tolerated cell therapies that not only enhance therapeutic benefits but also improve the overall patient experience compared to traditional cell therapy methods. Through a combination of internal research initiatives and external collaborations, SQZ Biotech is advancing a new generation of cellular therapies aimed at both immune activation and immune suppression.
Alector
Series E in 2018
Alector, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel therapies for neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in South San Francisco, California, the company utilizes advanced antibody technology and insights from neuroimmunology and human genetics to create innovative treatments. Alector’s pipeline includes several candidates, such as AL001, which is undergoing phase II clinical trials for frontotemporal dementia, and AL101, currently in phase I trials for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Additionally, AL002 and AL003 are in phase 1b trials for Alzheimer’s disease. The company is actively engaged in research and development, with a total of ten programs at various stages. Alector has formed a strategic collaboration with Adimab, LLC to enhance its antibody research and development capabilities, aiming to efficiently generate and validate antibody drugs that target key disease-related mechanisms.
Gossamer Bio
Series B in 2018
Gossamer Bio is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Diego that specializes in the discovery, development, and commercialization of innovative therapeutic products targeting significant unmet medical needs. Founded by former executives from Receptos, the company focuses on areas such as immunology, inflammation, fibrosis, and oncology. Its pipeline includes several promising candidates: Seralutinib, aimed at addressing pulmonary arterial hypertension; GB004, for inflammatory bowel disease; GB1275, targeting various oncology indications; and GB001, designed for moderate-to-severe eosinophilic asthma. Gossamer Bio's strategy involves leveraging a rich in-licensing environment to enhance its therapeutic offerings, supported by a team recognized for their successful track record in drug development.
Metacrine
Series C in 2018
Metacrine, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Diego, California, dedicated to developing innovative therapies for liver and gastrointestinal diseases. The company is advancing its lead programs, which target the farnesoid X receptor (FXR), a key drug target in these conditions. Currently, MET409 is undergoing a Phase Ib proof-of-concept clinical trial for patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, while MET642 is in a Phase 1 clinical trial for the same patient population. In addition to its FXR-focused programs, Metacrine is exploring a pipeline of novel drug candidates through its internal research and development capabilities. The company also collaborates with Novo Nordisk A/S to further research related to fibroblast growth factor 1. Metacrine was founded in 2014 and is committed to addressing unmet medical needs in liver and gastrointestinal health.
CAMP4 Therapeutics
Series A in 2018
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.
Quentis Therapeutics
Series A in 2018
Quentis Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in New York, founded in 2016. The company specializes in developing immunotherapies that target endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response pathways within the tumor microenvironment. By addressing ER stress, Quentis aims to enhance the immune system's capacity to combat cancer, providing patients with innovative treatment options. Its therapeutic approach focuses on awakening anti-tumor immunity, thereby potentially improving outcomes for individuals facing various forms of cancer.
Kallyope
Series B in 2018
Kallyope Inc. is a biotechnology company based in New York City that focuses on the gut-brain axis to develop innovative therapeutics and consumer products aimed at enhancing human health. Founded in 2014, Kallyope employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating technologies such as sequencing, computational biology, neural imaging, and human genetics to deepen the understanding of gut-brain biology. This comprehensive understanding enables the company to create effective and well-tolerated oral medications targeting various health issues, including diabetes, obesity, gut disorders, inflammatory diseases, migraines, and allergies. With a team of experienced scientists and a strong foundation in drug discovery, Kallyope aims to address significant unmet medical needs through its research and development efforts.
Pandion Therapeutics
Series A in 2018
Pandion Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative therapeutics for patients with autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions. The company's lead product candidate, PT101, is an engineered variant of interleukin-2 currently undergoing Phase 1a clinical trials for moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis and systemic lupus erythematosus. In addition to PT101, Pandion's pipeline includes PT627, a systemic PD-1 agonist in preclinical studies, and PT001 and PT002, which are bifunctional molecules designed for tissue-selective immunomodulation in the gastrointestinal tract. These molecules utilize a unique approach to achieve localized treatment, potentially enhancing efficacy and safety compared to traditional therapies. Pandion also collaborates with Astellas Pharma to develop locally acting immunomodulators targeting autoimmune diseases of the pancreas. The company is headquartered in Watertown, Massachusetts.
Scholar Rock
Series C in 2018
Scholar Rock is a biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing innovative therapies that target dysregulated growth factors within disease microenvironments. Founded in 2012 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company employs a proprietary platform to create monoclonal antibodies that selectively modulate the activation of these signaling proteins. This approach aims to avoid traditional challenges associated with growth factor inhibition while facilitating efficient drug development. Scholar Rock's lead product, SRK-015, is designed as a first-in-class inhibitor of myostatin activation, targeting conditions such as spinal muscular atrophy. The company's pipeline includes additional candidates, such as SRK-181, which inhibits latent transforming growth factor beta-1 for cancer treatment. Scholar Rock's research focuses on serious diseases, including neuromuscular disorders, cancer, fibrosis, and autoimmune diseases, reflecting its commitment to transforming patient outcomes through targeted therapies.
Jnana Therapeutics
Series A in 2017
Jnana Therapeutics Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Boston, Massachusetts, that focuses on drug discovery through its innovative platform targeting solute carrier (SLC) transporters. Established in 2016, the company aims to improve patient outcomes by developing small molecule therapies for various diseases, including those related to immunometabolism, lysosomal function, and mucosal defense. By utilizing advanced chemoproteomics techniques, Jnana accelerates the identification of therapeutic targets, addressing significant unmet medical needs in areas such as immuno-oncology, inflammatory disorders, and neurological diseases. The company's approach seeks to enhance drug discovery efficiency by comprehensively targeting the vast family of membrane proteins associated with SLC transporters.
Metacrine
Series B in 2017
Metacrine, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Diego, California, dedicated to developing innovative therapies for liver and gastrointestinal diseases. The company is advancing its lead programs, which target the farnesoid X receptor (FXR), a key drug target in these conditions. Currently, MET409 is undergoing a Phase Ib proof-of-concept clinical trial for patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, while MET642 is in a Phase 1 clinical trial for the same patient population. In addition to its FXR-focused programs, Metacrine is exploring a pipeline of novel drug candidates through its internal research and development capabilities. The company also collaborates with Novo Nordisk A/S to further research related to fibroblast growth factor 1. Metacrine was founded in 2014 and is committed to addressing unmet medical needs in liver and gastrointestinal health.
KSQ Therapeutics
Series B in 2017
KSQ Therapeutics, Inc., founded in 2015 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, specializes in precision functional genomics to discover innovative drug therapies. The company employs a novel approach to research and development that emphasizes de-risking prior to the creation of therapeutic candidates. Utilizing its proprietary CRISPRomics™ drug discovery engine, KSQ Therapeutics has mapped the functions of human genes across various diseases, enhancing its understanding of disease biology. This comprehensive insight enables the identification and validation of high-confidence, patient-specific drug targets. As a result, the company is focused on developing medicines that have significant potential to improve patient outcomes and has established a pipeline of preclinical discovery programs.
Compass Therapeutics
Series A in 2017
Compass Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative antibody therapeutics for the treatment of solid tumors and hematological malignancies. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company utilizes its proprietary StitchMabs and common light-chain platforms to discover and create multispecific antibody combinations. Its lead product candidate, CTX-471, is an agonistic monoclonal antibody targeting CD137, currently undergoing Phase 1 clinical trials in patients with prior PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitor treatment. Another significant candidate, CTX-009, is a bispecific antibody that inhibits DLL4-mediated Notch signaling and VEGF-A signaling, having completed a Phase 1 dose escalation study. Additionally, CTX-8371, a bispecific antibody targeting PD-1 and PD-L1, is in the IND-enabling stage. Through its innovative approaches, Compass Therapeutics aims to enhance immune engagement and improve therapeutic outcomes for cancer patients.
Arsanis
Series D in 2017
Arsanis, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Waltham, Massachusetts, specializing in monoclonal antibody (mAb) immunotherapies for serious infectious diseases. Founded in 2010, Arsanis develops mAbs targeting various bacterial and viral pathogens, including its lead program ASN100, which is focused on preventing Staphylococcus aureus pneumonia in high-risk, mechanically ventilated patients and is currently in Phase 2 clinical trials. The company's pipeline also includes ASN500, targeting respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), as well as preclinical candidates ASN300 for Klebsiella pneumoniae and ASN200 for Escherichia coli. Additionally, Arsanis operates research and preclinical development efforts in Vienna, Austria, through its subsidiary, Arsanis Biosciences GmbH. The company's advanced understanding of infection pathogenesis and mAb discovery techniques underpins its efforts to tackle significant health challenges posed by infectious diseases.
Africa Healthcare Network
Venture Round in 2016
Africa Healthcare Network (AHN) has pioneered the first dialysis chain in Sub-Saharan Africa, aimed at delivering affordable, high-quality dialysis services for patients suffering from Acute Kidney Injury and End-Stage Renal Disease. In a region where existing facilities are limited and often charge exorbitant fees, AHN addresses the critical shortage of accessible dialysis care. The organization leverages its technical expertise and practical experience to establish well-equipped centers, while also focusing on training healthcare professionals to enhance service delivery. As Chronic Kidney Disease and related health issues rise due to urbanization and lifestyle changes, AHN's model prioritizes operational efficiency and cost-effective sourcing of medical supplies, thereby reducing treatment costs for patients. Operating in Rwanda, Tanzania, and Kenya, AHN is committed to increasing access to life-saving dialysis care, ultimately improving patient outcomes while ensuring financial sustainability.
Genomics Medicine Ireland
Series A in 2016
Genomics Medicine Ireland is a life sciences company focused on conducting extensive research studies throughout Ireland to explore the connections between the human genome, health, and disease. By analyzing genetic information, the company aims to deepen the understanding of how genetics influences various health outcomes and disease susceptibility. Through its research initiatives, Genomics Medicine Ireland seeks to contribute valuable insights that could inform future medical practices and enhance healthcare delivery.
SQZ Biotech
Series B in 2016
SQZ Biotech is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative cell therapies for patients facing cancer, infectious diseases, and other serious health conditions. Utilizing its proprietary CellSqueeze technology, SQZ Biotech can deliver a variety of materials into diverse patient cell types, enabling the engineering of therapies that address a wide array of clinical challenges. The company aims to create well-tolerated cell therapies that not only enhance therapeutic benefits but also improve the overall patient experience compared to traditional cell therapy methods. Through a combination of internal research initiatives and external collaborations, SQZ Biotech is advancing a new generation of cellular therapies aimed at both immune activation and immune suppression.
Morphic Therapeutic
Series A in 2016
Morphic Therapeutic is a biotechnology company focused on developing oral integrin therapies aimed at treating serious chronic diseases such as autoimmune disorders, cardiovascular conditions, metabolic diseases, fibrosis, and cancer. The company specializes in creating small molecule inhibitors that target various integrins. By leveraging insights into integrin biology, Morphic Therapeutic is building a pipeline of innovative therapeutics designed to address a range of immunological, fibrotic, neoplastic, and vascular diseases, thereby offering potential new treatment options for patients with significant unmet medical needs.
Kala Pharmaceuticals
Series C in 2016
Kala Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing and commercializing innovative therapies for eye diseases using its proprietary Mucus Penetrating Particles (MPP) technology. This technology enhances drug distribution and pharmacokinetics by coating mucosal surfaces with biocompatible, drug-loaded particles, allowing for improved local drug concentrations while minimizing systemic exposure. Kala's lead product candidate, KPI-121 0.25%, has completed two Phase III clinical trials aimed at providing temporary relief for dry eye disease. Additionally, INVELTYS has also completed two Phase III trials for managing inflammation and pain after ocular surgery. The company is advancing KPI-285, a receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, in preclinical studies targeting retinal diseases. Established in 2009 and headquartered in Watertown, Massachusetts, Kala Pharmaceuticals continues to explore diverse product opportunities while focusing on internal development and research collaborations to address significant clinical needs.
Syros Pharmaceuticals
Series C in 2016
Syros Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, that specializes in developing innovative treatments for cancer and monogenic diseases through gene control medicines. The company is advancing its lead product candidates, including SY-1425, a selective retinoic acid receptor alpha agonist currently in Phase II clinical trials for specific patient populations with acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome, and SY-5609, a cyclin-dependent kinase 7 inhibitor under investigation in a Phase I clinical trial for advanced solid tumors. Syros is also engaged in collaborative research, including a partnership with Incyte Corporation aimed at identifying therapeutic targets for myeloproliferative neoplasms and a licensing agreement with TMRC Co. Ltd. for the development of tamibarotene. With a focus on mapping gene regulatory circuits, Syros leverages its proprietary platform and expertise to address significant unmet medical needs in oncology. Founded in 2011, the company aims to establish new standards of care for patients with hematologic malignancies.
Alector
Series D in 2016
Alector, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel therapies for neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in South San Francisco, California, the company utilizes advanced antibody technology and insights from neuroimmunology and human genetics to create innovative treatments. Alector’s pipeline includes several candidates, such as AL001, which is undergoing phase II clinical trials for frontotemporal dementia, and AL101, currently in phase I trials for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Additionally, AL002 and AL003 are in phase 1b trials for Alzheimer’s disease. The company is actively engaged in research and development, with a total of ten programs at various stages. Alector has formed a strategic collaboration with Adimab, LLC to enhance its antibody research and development capabilities, aiming to efficiently generate and validate antibody drugs that target key disease-related mechanisms.
Scholar Rock
Series B in 2016
Scholar Rock is a biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing innovative therapies that target dysregulated growth factors within disease microenvironments. Founded in 2012 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company employs a proprietary platform to create monoclonal antibodies that selectively modulate the activation of these signaling proteins. This approach aims to avoid traditional challenges associated with growth factor inhibition while facilitating efficient drug development. Scholar Rock's lead product, SRK-015, is designed as a first-in-class inhibitor of myostatin activation, targeting conditions such as spinal muscular atrophy. The company's pipeline includes additional candidates, such as SRK-181, which inhibits latent transforming growth factor beta-1 for cancer treatment. Scholar Rock's research focuses on serious diseases, including neuromuscular disorders, cancer, fibrosis, and autoimmune diseases, reflecting its commitment to transforming patient outcomes through targeted therapies.
Morphic Therapeutic
Seed Round in 2016
Morphic Therapeutic is a biotechnology company focused on developing oral integrin therapies aimed at treating serious chronic diseases such as autoimmune disorders, cardiovascular conditions, metabolic diseases, fibrosis, and cancer. The company specializes in creating small molecule inhibitors that target various integrins. By leveraging insights into integrin biology, Morphic Therapeutic is building a pipeline of innovative therapeutics designed to address a range of immunological, fibrotic, neoplastic, and vascular diseases, thereby offering potential new treatment options for patients with significant unmet medical needs.
Kallyope
Series A in 2015
Kallyope Inc. is a biotechnology company based in New York City that focuses on the gut-brain axis to develop innovative therapeutics and consumer products aimed at enhancing human health. Founded in 2014, Kallyope employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating technologies such as sequencing, computational biology, neural imaging, and human genetics to deepen the understanding of gut-brain biology. This comprehensive understanding enables the company to create effective and well-tolerated oral medications targeting various health issues, including diabetes, obesity, gut disorders, inflammatory diseases, migraines, and allergies. With a team of experienced scientists and a strong foundation in drug discovery, Kallyope aims to address significant unmet medical needs through its research and development efforts.
Alector
Series C in 2015
Alector, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel therapies for neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in South San Francisco, California, the company utilizes advanced antibody technology and insights from neuroimmunology and human genetics to create innovative treatments. Alector’s pipeline includes several candidates, such as AL001, which is undergoing phase II clinical trials for frontotemporal dementia, and AL101, currently in phase I trials for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Additionally, AL002 and AL003 are in phase 1b trials for Alzheimer’s disease. The company is actively engaged in research and development, with a total of ten programs at various stages. Alector has formed a strategic collaboration with Adimab, LLC to enhance its antibody research and development capabilities, aiming to efficiently generate and validate antibody drugs that target key disease-related mechanisms.
Selecta Biosciences
Series E in 2015
Selecta Biosciences, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing nanoparticle immunomodulatory drugs for the treatment and prevention of human diseases. The company's proprietary platform utilizes advances in immunobiology and nanotechnology to create targeted immunomodulatory nanoparticles. Selecta's lead product, SEL-212, has successfully completed Phase II clinical trials for chronic refractory gout. Additionally, the company is advancing gene therapy candidates in preclinical development for rare metabolic disorders, including SEL-302 for methylmalonic acidemia and SEL-313 for ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency. Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Watertown, Massachusetts, Selecta Biosciences has established collaborations with various organizations, including Spark Therapeutics and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, to enhance its research and development capabilities.
Editas Medicine
Series B in 2015
Editas Medicine is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with an additional site in Boulder, Colorado. Founded in 2013, the company focuses on the discovery and development of genome editing therapeutics, primarily utilizing its proprietary CRISPR/Cas9 technology. This innovative platform enables precise molecular modifications at the genetic level, with the aim of treating a wide array of serious diseases by addressing their underlying causes. Editas Medicine has established a strong intellectual property portfolio, which includes numerous patents related to foundational genome editing technologies and advancements that facilitate the translation of research into viable human therapeutics. The company's mission is to pioneer transformative genomic medicines that can significantly improve patient outcomes across various genetic disorders.
Metacrine
Series A in 2015
Metacrine, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Diego, California, dedicated to developing innovative therapies for liver and gastrointestinal diseases. The company is advancing its lead programs, which target the farnesoid X receptor (FXR), a key drug target in these conditions. Currently, MET409 is undergoing a Phase Ib proof-of-concept clinical trial for patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, while MET642 is in a Phase 1 clinical trial for the same patient population. In addition to its FXR-focused programs, Metacrine is exploring a pipeline of novel drug candidates through its internal research and development capabilities. The company also collaborates with Novo Nordisk A/S to further research related to fibroblast growth factor 1. Metacrine was founded in 2014 and is committed to addressing unmet medical needs in liver and gastrointestinal health.
Arivale
Series B in 2015
Arivale Inc. is a wellness service provider that focuses on helping individuals optimize their health and prevent disease through a scientific approach. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Seattle, Washington, the company analyzes various aspects of individual health, including genetics, blood markers, the gut microbiome, and lifestyle factors. By integrating this data, Arivale delivers tailored recommendations and personalized coaching to empower individuals in making informed decisions about their wellness. This comprehensive approach not only aids members in understanding their unique health profiles but also contributes to a growing dataset that supports medical research aimed at enhancing health outcomes.
SQZ Biotech
Series A in 2015
SQZ Biotech is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative cell therapies for patients facing cancer, infectious diseases, and other serious health conditions. Utilizing its proprietary CellSqueeze technology, SQZ Biotech can deliver a variety of materials into diverse patient cell types, enabling the engineering of therapies that address a wide array of clinical challenges. The company aims to create well-tolerated cell therapies that not only enhance therapeutic benefits but also improve the overall patient experience compared to traditional cell therapy methods. Through a combination of internal research initiatives and external collaborations, SQZ Biotech is advancing a new generation of cellular therapies aimed at both immune activation and immune suppression.
Pulmatrix
Post in 2015
Pulmatrix, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Lexington, Massachusetts, focused on developing innovative inhaled therapies for serious pulmonary diseases. Utilizing its proprietary iSPERSE technology, which stands for inhaled Small Particles Easily Respirable and Emitted, Pulmatrix aims to enhance the delivery of therapeutic agents directly to the lungs while minimizing systemic side effects. The company's product pipeline includes Pulmazole, an inhaled anti-fungal targeting allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, and PUR1800, a narrow spectrum kinase inhibitor designed for obstructive lung diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Established in 2003, Pulmatrix collaborates with various partners, including RespiVert Ltd. and Cipla Technologies LLC, to advance its drug candidates and address significant unmet medical needs in respiratory care.
XTuit Pharmaceuticals
Series A in 2015
XTuit Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing therapeutics that target the disease-promoting microenvironment associated with fibrotic diseases and cancer. Established in 2011 and based in Waltham, Massachusetts, the company is engaged in creating pharmaceutical preparations aimed at diagnosing and treating oncological, tumor, and inflammatory diseases. XTuit Pharmaceuticals employs novel strategies to enhance cancer therapy by specifically addressing the tumor microenvironment. Its drug development pipeline includes innovative approaches that inhibit extracellular matrix synthesis and stabilize activated stromal cells, utilizing a clinical biomarker platform for effective treatment outcomes.
480 Biomedical
Series C in 2015
480 Biomedical focuses on the development of a bioresorbable scaffold for treating occlusive disease in the superficial femoral artery (SFA). Its lead product, SFA scaffold, is a proprietary scaffold and delivery system for use in treating peripheral arterial disease in the SFA. The company was founded in 2011 and is based in Watertown, Massachusetts.
Kindex
Series A in 2015
KinDex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a biotechnology company dedicated to discovering and developing novel therapeutics for patients suffering from metabolic disorders, including diabetes and obesity. Founded in 2009 and based in Seattle, Washington, the company focuses on compounds that modulate key regulatory networks associated with these conditions. Its lead product, KDT501, is derived from hop extracts and has shown promise in normalizing glucose metabolism and body weight in rodent models. In addition to improving glucose homeostasis, KDT501 may also influence cholesterol and triglyceride levels, reduce body weight gain, and mitigate inflammation linked to metabolic dysfunction. KinDex Pharmaceuticals leverages the Bitter Taste Receptors (TAS2Rs) to target inflammatory and metabolic pathways, aiming to enhance women's health and address chronic diseases.
Syros Pharmaceuticals
Series B in 2014
Syros Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, that specializes in developing innovative treatments for cancer and monogenic diseases through gene control medicines. The company is advancing its lead product candidates, including SY-1425, a selective retinoic acid receptor alpha agonist currently in Phase II clinical trials for specific patient populations with acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome, and SY-5609, a cyclin-dependent kinase 7 inhibitor under investigation in a Phase I clinical trial for advanced solid tumors. Syros is also engaged in collaborative research, including a partnership with Incyte Corporation aimed at identifying therapeutic targets for myeloproliferative neoplasms and a licensing agreement with TMRC Co. Ltd. for the development of tamibarotene. With a focus on mapping gene regulatory circuits, Syros leverages its proprietary platform and expertise to address significant unmet medical needs in oncology. Founded in 2011, the company aims to establish new standards of care for patients with hematologic malignancies.
Selecta Biosciences
Private Equity Round in 2014
Selecta Biosciences, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing nanoparticle immunomodulatory drugs for the treatment and prevention of human diseases. The company's proprietary platform utilizes advances in immunobiology and nanotechnology to create targeted immunomodulatory nanoparticles. Selecta's lead product, SEL-212, has successfully completed Phase II clinical trials for chronic refractory gout. Additionally, the company is advancing gene therapy candidates in preclinical development for rare metabolic disorders, including SEL-302 for methylmalonic acidemia and SEL-313 for ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency. Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Watertown, Massachusetts, Selecta Biosciences has established collaborations with various organizations, including Spark Therapeutics and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, to enhance its research and development capabilities.
Scholar Rock
Series A in 2014
Scholar Rock is a biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing innovative therapies that target dysregulated growth factors within disease microenvironments. Founded in 2012 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company employs a proprietary platform to create monoclonal antibodies that selectively modulate the activation of these signaling proteins. This approach aims to avoid traditional challenges associated with growth factor inhibition while facilitating efficient drug development. Scholar Rock's lead product, SRK-015, is designed as a first-in-class inhibitor of myostatin activation, targeting conditions such as spinal muscular atrophy. The company's pipeline includes additional candidates, such as SRK-181, which inhibits latent transforming growth factor beta-1 for cancer treatment. Scholar Rock's research focuses on serious diseases, including neuromuscular disorders, cancer, fibrosis, and autoimmune diseases, reflecting its commitment to transforming patient outcomes through targeted therapies.
Strata Health
Venture Round in 2014
Strata Health specializes in developing a patient flow management platform aimed at assisting healthcare professionals in effectively matching patients with appropriate resources. The platform serves as an electronic referral system, enabling care coordinators and clinicians to facilitate safe and efficient transitions across the healthcare continuum. By utilizing digital tools and automated workflows, Strata Health enhances patient placement decisions and improves operational flow practices within hospitals, ultimately allowing for better patient care.
Kala Pharmaceuticals
Series B in 2014
Kala Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing and commercializing innovative therapies for eye diseases using its proprietary Mucus Penetrating Particles (MPP) technology. This technology enhances drug distribution and pharmacokinetics by coating mucosal surfaces with biocompatible, drug-loaded particles, allowing for improved local drug concentrations while minimizing systemic exposure. Kala's lead product candidate, KPI-121 0.25%, has completed two Phase III clinical trials aimed at providing temporary relief for dry eye disease. Additionally, INVELTYS has also completed two Phase III trials for managing inflammation and pain after ocular surgery. The company is advancing KPI-285, a receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, in preclinical studies targeting retinal diseases. Established in 2009 and headquartered in Watertown, Massachusetts, Kala Pharmaceuticals continues to explore diverse product opportunities while focusing on internal development and research collaborations to address significant clinical needs.
Genuity Science
Series A in 2013
Genuity Science is a company that specializes in clinco-omics data analysis solutions for researchers in the fields of central nervous system, cardiometabolic, and inflammatory diseases. The company provides a comprehensive global genomics platform that facilitates the study of biological data insights, offering services that include study design, genomic sequencing, data storage, interpretation, secondary analysis, and scalable analytics. By leveraging the human genome, Genuity Science aims to empower organizations to enhance patient health through advanced genomic insights and analysis.
aTyr Pharma
Series D in 2013
aTyr Pharma is a biotherapeutics company based in San Diego, California, specializing in the discovery and development of innovative medicines utilizing novel immunological pathways. The company focuses primarily on ATYR1923, a clinical-stage fusion protein designed to down-regulate immune engagement in interstitial lung diseases by binding to the neuropilin-2 receptor. This candidate is currently undergoing Phase 1b/2a clinical trials. aTyr Pharma has established a strong intellectual property portfolio centered around Physiocrine-based compositions and therapeutic applications, particularly in immunomodulation disorders related to inflammation and immunity. Additionally, the company has formed collaborations with several institutions, including the University of Nebraska Medical Center, CSL Behring, Boston Children’s Hospital, and the Medical University of South Carolina, to advance its research and development efforts. Founded in 2005 by a prominent scientist from The Scripps Research Institute, aTyr is supported by leading life sciences investors.
T2 Biosystems
Series E in 2013
T2 Biosystems, Inc. is an in vitro diagnostics company focused on developing advanced diagnostic products for detecting pathogens and biomarkers. Utilizing its proprietary T2 Magnetic Resonance technology, the company offers rapid and accurate testing for various medical conditions directly from unpurified patient samples, including whole blood, plasma, and urine. Key products include the T2Dx Instrument for diagnosing sepsis and Lyme disease, the T2Candida Panel for identifying Candida species, and the T2Bacteria Panel for detecting bacterial pathogens linked to sepsis. Additionally, T2 Biosystems provides the T2Resistance Panel for identifying antibiotic resistance markers and is developing other diagnostic panels for multi-drug resistant pathogens and Lyme disease strains. The company collaborates with organizations like Canon U.S. Life Sciences and Allergan Sales to enhance its testing capabilities. Founded in 2006 and based in Lexington, Massachusetts, T2 Biosystems aims to improve patient care and reduce healthcare costs through its innovative diagnostic solutions.
Kala Pharmaceuticals
Series A in 2013
Kala Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing and commercializing innovative therapies for eye diseases using its proprietary Mucus Penetrating Particles (MPP) technology. This technology enhances drug distribution and pharmacokinetics by coating mucosal surfaces with biocompatible, drug-loaded particles, allowing for improved local drug concentrations while minimizing systemic exposure. Kala's lead product candidate, KPI-121 0.25%, has completed two Phase III clinical trials aimed at providing temporary relief for dry eye disease. Additionally, INVELTYS has also completed two Phase III trials for managing inflammation and pain after ocular surgery. The company is advancing KPI-285, a receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, in preclinical studies targeting retinal diseases. Established in 2009 and headquartered in Watertown, Massachusetts, Kala Pharmaceuticals continues to explore diverse product opportunities while focusing on internal development and research collaborations to address significant clinical needs.
Promedior
Series D in 2012
Promedior, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Lexington, Massachusetts, focused on developing therapeutics for rare fibrotic and inflammatory diseases. The company’s primary targets include conditions such as myelofibrosis, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, age-related macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. Promedior's drug portfolio features PRM-151, a recombinant form of human pentaxin-2 protein, and PRM-167, a variant designed for intravitreal delivery. These therapeutics are aimed at regulating monocyte-derived cell populations, which are critical in fibrotic, inflammatory, and autoimmune diseases. By specifically addressing these cells at injury sites, Promedior seeks to promote tissue healing and minimize systemic side effects commonly associated with existing therapies. The company was incorporated in 2006 and was previously known as Fibrotix, Inc.
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