Solasta Ventures

Maxion Therapeutics specializes in developing innovative therapies through its drug discovery platform, which focuses on creating antibody-like therapeutics targeting ion channel and GPCR-driven diseases. The company utilizes unique ion channel-modulating mini-proteins, known as knottins, derived from venom and other sources, integrating them with antibody frameworks. This approach preserves the functional properties of knottins while enhancing the drug-like characteristics typical of antibodies. By doing so, Maxion Therapeutics aims to provide long-acting, safe, and effective treatments for conditions such as chronic pain, autoimmune disorders, and heart disease, addressing previously inaccessible therapeutic targets.

Axonis Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on developing therapies for neurological disorders by targeting KCC2, a key mediator of inhibition in the brain. The company utilizes a proprietary discovery engine centered on the neuron-specific K-Cl cotransporter (KCC2) to address various conditions, including epilepsy and pain, as well as other central nervous system pathologies. By harnessing breakthrough research from institutions such as Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard, and Laval University, Axonis aims to enhance the lives of individuals affected by these disorders through improved modulation of neuronal inhibition.

DAAN Biotherapeutics focuses on developing innovative cancer treatments, particularly for lung cancer. The company conducts research and development in immune-oncology, utilizing advanced strategies such as anticancer immune cell therapy that employs natural killer (NK) cells and T cell receptors. DAAN Biotherapeutics aims to create effective therapies by integrating various treatment modalities, including cell therapies, antibodies, and small molecule inhibitors. Their work involves conducting clinical trials based on independent research infrastructure, with the objective of providing healthcare providers with effective options for treating cancer patients.

EvolveImmune Therapeutics specializes in developing innovative immunotherapies aimed at addressing significant unmet medical needs in oncology and autoimmune diseases. The company has created a unique immunobiological platform that enables sustained immune activation and precise targeting of tumor cells through engineered biologics. These first-in-category therapeutics focus on maximizing the therapeutic benefit while minimizing toxicity, setting them apart from conventional CD3 bispecific and other immune therapies. By leveraging a proprietary in vivo target discovery platform, EvolveImmune is building a pipeline of novel therapeutic candidates that target various immune cell types, thereby enhancing treatment options for patients suffering from a range of conditions, particularly cancer and autoimmune disorders.

ReCode Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing precision medicines for pulmonary diseases, particularly targeting genetic conditions such as primary ciliary dyskinesia and cystic fibrosis. Founded in 2015 and based in Menlo Park, California, the company employs a unique non-viral lipid nanoparticle platform that facilitates the precise delivery of nucleic acid and protein payloads to specific organs and tissues, enhancing the effectiveness of genetic therapies. This selective organ targeting (SORT) technology allows for the administration of corrective or disease-modifying treatments beyond the liver, addressing the challenges faced by traditional gene therapy methods. By harnessing these innovative techniques, ReCode Therapeutics aims to provide new therapeutic options for patients suffering from rare and life-limiting respiratory diseases.

Boxhub is an online platform that facilitates the buying and selling of new and used shipping containers. It provides users with a clear overview of available containers, upfront pricing, and automated checkout processes, enhancing the overall customer experience. The platform is designed to streamline the trading and transportation of intermodal shipping containers by sourcing directly from the nearest container ports, ensuring competitive pricing and efficiency. Boxhub aims to assist container owners in selling containers that are no longer needed for shipping while also delivering exceptional customer service and door-to-door delivery for buyers.

Prime Roots is a San Francisco-based company founded in 2017 that specializes in plant-based food products, particularly meat and seafood alternatives. Utilizing koji mycelium, the company creates vegetarian offerings such as salmon burgers that replicate the taste, texture, and nutrition of traditional meat and seafood. By leveraging natural koji proteins, Prime Roots aims to reduce the reliance on carbon-intensive animal agriculture, providing both meat-eaters and vegans with protein-rich and sustainable food options. In addition to its product offerings, the company also organizes food events for its members.

Ensoma is a biotechnology company focused on advancing genomic medicine through its innovative in vivo approach, utilizing proprietary Engenious vectors. These vectors are engineered to deliver a wide array of gene modification technologies directly to blood and immune cells, including T cells, B cells, and myeloid cells, without the necessity for stem cell collection or prior myeloablative conditioning, which can pose risks to patients. This unique method allows for the administration of therapies via a single injection, enhancing accessibility and convenience in various healthcare settings, even where resources may be limited. Ensoma aims to expand the curative potential of genomic medicine, making it more accessible to patients in need.

Carisma Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to developing innovative immunotherapies for cancer and other serious diseases through its proprietary chimeric antigen receptor macrophage technology. The company focuses on engineering macrophages and monocytes, which are specialized white blood cells, to enhance their ability to infiltrate solid tumors and deliver potent cellular immunotherapy. By leveraging advanced cell engineering techniques, Carisma aims to provide effective treatments that enable patients with solid tumors to benefit from targeted and robust cancer therapies.

TiBit Communications specializes in innovative technology aimed at transforming broadband access deployment in the global Service Provider markets, including cable, telecommunications, and wireless sectors. The company designs small, low-power, and cost-effective devices that can be easily integrated into existing networks. These devices facilitate multi-Gigabit connectivity and enable high-performance Ethernet switching systems to replace traditional access equipment. By virtualizing the access network, TiBit Communications helps businesses reduce operational costs and simplify their network architecture, making it easier for service providers to adapt to evolving demands.

Carbon Biosciences focuses on developing genetic medicines to address serious diseases. The company utilizes a proprietary platform that employs novel parvoviruses, which are designed to target specific tissues and carry larger therapeutic cargo. This approach minimizes the risk of neutralizing immunity and allows for repeat dosing, making it particularly effective for conditions such as cystic fibrosis, where targeting lung and upper airway tissues is crucial. By leveraging industrial-scale viral production platforms, Carbon Biosciences aims to extend the reach of gene therapies, offering innovative solutions for researchers and patients alike.

Soul Machines Limited, founded in 2016 and headquartered in Auckland, New Zealand, specializes in the development of emotionally responsive avatars that enhance user experiences across various artificial intelligence platforms. The company offers a range of products, including the Digital DNA Studio, which allows users to create custom digital avatars for applications in customer care, marketing, education, and more. By utilizing its innovative Biological AI technology and patented Digital Brain™, Soul Machines aims to humanize AI, creating engaging and empathetic AI assistants that facilitate deeper interactions and personalized experiences. With additional offices in major cities worldwide, including San Francisco, New York, London, Tokyo, and Melbourne, Soul Machines is at the forefront of transforming customer engagement through ethical and responsive human-machine collaboration.

Rescale, Inc. is a company that specializes in developing and operating cloud-based platforms for scientific and engineering simulations. Its offerings include the ScaleX Pro platform for independent professionals and small to medium-sized businesses, and ScaleX Developer, which allows external application developers to integrate their software directly with Rescale’s systems. Additionally, the ScaleX Enterprise platform provides a comprehensive solution for enterprise-level simulation needs, managing on-premise high-performance computing resources and software licenses. Serving a diverse range of industries, including aerospace, automotive, and life sciences, Rescale facilitates more than 300 customers, from startups to large corporations, in accelerating their design processes and reducing time to market. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in San Francisco, Rescale also has offices in Tokyo, Munich, and Singapore, and it is supported by a variety of investors from the technology and venture capital sectors.

Immunitas Therapeutics, Inc. is focused on developing targeted therapies for cancer patients through innovative single-cell analyses. Founded in 2019 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company utilizes a single-cell sequencing platform to explore the biology of immune cells within human tumors. This approach allows Immunitas to identify novel drug targets rooted in human biology and create key biomarkers that assist in selecting patients who may benefit from their therapies. By translating laboratory findings into clinical applications, Immunitas aims to address longstanding challenges in oncology and improve treatment options for complex cancers. The company is advancing multiple programs toward early human studies, leveraging expertise in antibody discovery and engineering to develop effective treatments.

Carisma Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to developing innovative immunotherapies for cancer and other serious diseases through its proprietary chimeric antigen receptor macrophage technology. The company focuses on engineering macrophages and monocytes, which are specialized white blood cells, to enhance their ability to infiltrate solid tumors and deliver potent cellular immunotherapy. By leveraging advanced cell engineering techniques, Carisma aims to provide effective treatments that enable patients with solid tumors to benefit from targeted and robust cancer therapies.

Carisma Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to developing innovative immunotherapies for cancer and other serious diseases through its proprietary chimeric antigen receptor macrophage technology. The company focuses on engineering macrophages and monocytes, which are specialized white blood cells, to enhance their ability to infiltrate solid tumors and deliver potent cellular immunotherapy. By leveraging advanced cell engineering techniques, Carisma aims to provide effective treatments that enable patients with solid tumors to benefit from targeted and robust cancer therapies.

Ridecell, Inc. is a technology company that specializes in fleet automation and management software solutions. Founded in 2009 and headquartered in San Francisco, California, with additional offices in several global locations, Ridecell offers a range of products designed to enhance the efficiency of fleet operations. Its Demand-Response solution automates various processes including dispatch, routing, and scheduling, while its Fixed Route product enables real-time tracking and notifications for public transportation users. The Ridecell platform further streamlines operations for ride-sharing and car-sharing services by facilitating tasks such as rider onboarding, ID verification, dynamic pricing, and payment processing. By leveraging data insights and digital vehicle control, Ridecell transforms traditional manual processes into automated workflows, thereby improving operational efficiency for clients including public transportation agencies, universities, and logistics fleets across North America and Europe.

Exo is a medical device startup focused on developing a handheld ultrasound platform for imaging and therapeutic applications. The company aims to provide affordable and user-friendly medical imaging solutions for healthcare professionals globally. By integrating advanced nano-materials, innovative sensor technologies, and sophisticated signal processing with the cost efficiencies of semiconductor manufacturing, Exo significantly lowers the costs associated with medical imaging. This technology allows healthcare providers to make vital, real-time decisions that enhance patient outcomes. Exo's commitment to high-quality, accessible imaging represents a significant advancement in medical technology, making effective diagnostic tools available at an unprecedented price point.

Seer, Inc. is a life sciences company that specializes in nanoparticle technology solutions aimed at advancing proteomics research. The company offers Proteograph, an integrated system that includes consumables, automation instrumentation, and proprietary software for conducting proteomics analysis. Seer's products are designed for research applications, targeting academic institutions, life sciences laboratories, and biopharmaceutical companies for non-diagnostic and non-clinical uses. Additionally, Seer is focused on developing a health data platform that enhances early detection of chronic diseases by capturing and translating molecular insights from the proteome, thereby enabling healthcare professionals to identify conditions such as cancer and neurological disorders more accurately and rapidly. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Redwood City, California, Seer was previously known as Seer Biosciences, Inc. before rebranding in July 2018.

HotSpot Therapeutics is a biotechnology startup based in Boston, Massachusetts, established in 2017. The company specializes in the development of allosteric therapies that target regulatory sites on proteins. Its innovative therapeutic platform is designed to identify hotspots and locate pathway treatments for cancer, metabolic disorders, and rare diseases. By leveraging a comprehensive database of hotspot structures and utilizing data science, HotSpot Therapeutics employs a multidisciplinary approach to drug discovery. This approach aims to enhance the effectiveness of treatments and improve patient outcomes across a range of conditions.

Atea Pharmaceuticals is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Boston, Massachusetts, that focuses on discovering and developing antiviral therapies for severe viral infections. The company's lead candidate, AT-527, is an antiviral agent currently undergoing phase 3 clinical trials for the treatment of COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2. Additionally, Atea is developing several other product candidates, including AT-787, which is in phase 2 trials for hepatitis C, and AT-752 for dengue. Other candidates, such as AT-889 and AT-934, are also in phase 2 clinical trials targeting respiratory syncytial virus. Established in 2014, Atea Pharmaceuticals aims to improve treatment options for patients suffering from serious viral infections.

Rallybio is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing transformative therapies for patients with severe and rare disorders. Founded in 2018 and based in New Haven, Connecticut, the company is advancing its lead product candidate, RLYB211, which aims to prevent fetal and neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (FNAIT), a serious condition that can lead to uncontrolled bleeding in fetuses and newborns. Rallybio's portfolio includes a range of promising product candidates targeting rare diseases across various therapeutic areas, including hematology, immuno-inflammation, maternal-fetal health, and metabolic disorders. The company's efforts are supported by a team of experienced professionals with extensive expertise in biopharma research and development.

Kymera Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company based in Watertown, Massachusetts, that specializes in the discovery and development of novel small molecule therapeutics aimed at selectively degrading disease-causing proteins. The company utilizes a proprietary platform for targeted protein degradation, leveraging the body’s natural protein recycling system. Kymera is developing several programs, including the IRAK4 program for immunology-inflammation diseases such as hidradenitis suppurativa and rheumatoid arthritis, the IRAKIMiD program to address MYD88-mutated diffuse large B cell lymphoma, and the STAT3 program targeting hematologic malignancies, solid tumors, and autoimmune diseases. Founded in 2015, Kymera Therapeutics is pioneering new approaches to treat diseases that have previously been considered untreatable, focusing on previously inaccessible therapeutic targets.

Orionis Biosciences is a biotechnology company focused on early-stage drug discovery and development, particularly targeting oncology and immunotherapies. Headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, with additional research facilities in Ghent, Belgium, the company utilizes a range of innovative technologies to create conditionally active drug modalities aimed at treating diseases with significant unmet medical needs. By inducing molecular proximity and cooperativity, Orionis enhances drug potency and precision, allowing for novel target access. Their approach facilitates the development of a diverse pipeline of drug candidates, including therapies that engage both adaptive and innate immune systems. The company collaborates with strategic partners, including VIB in Belgium, and is supported by a team of seasoned entrepreneurs and scientists, as well as a transatlantic network of investors.

Xilio Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative immunotherapies to enhance the immune system's ability to combat cancer. The company specializes in tumor-selective immunotherapies that leverage its proprietary technology to maximize the effectiveness of existing immuno-oncology treatments while minimizing side effects outside the tumor. Its lead product, XTX201, is designed to induce immune activity specifically within tumors, demonstrating improved antitumor efficacy. Xilio Therapeutics aims to deliver significant improvements in patient outcomes by utilizing its platform to create a pipeline of novel therapies, including tumor-activated cytokines, antibodies, and immune cell engagers, all targeted to optimize therapeutic effects within the tumor microenvironment. Founded in 2015 and based in Waltham, Massachusetts, the company was previously known as Akrevia Therapeutics before rebranding in March 2020.

EvolveImmune Therapeutics specializes in developing innovative immunotherapies aimed at addressing significant unmet medical needs in oncology and autoimmune diseases. The company has created a unique immunobiological platform that enables sustained immune activation and precise targeting of tumor cells through engineered biologics. These first-in-category therapeutics focus on maximizing the therapeutic benefit while minimizing toxicity, setting them apart from conventional CD3 bispecific and other immune therapies. By leveraging a proprietary in vivo target discovery platform, EvolveImmune is building a pipeline of novel therapeutic candidates that target various immune cell types, thereby enhancing treatment options for patients suffering from a range of conditions, particularly cancer and autoimmune disorders.

Chameleon Biosciences Inc. specializes in developing gene therapy solutions using Adeno Associated Virus (AAV) technology to address rare genetic diseases. Founded in 2017 and based in San Anselmo, California, the company focuses on delivering therapeutic proteins to targeted tissues while minimizing immune responses to enhance gene delivery and reduce immunogenicity. Chameleon aims to transform the treatment landscape for genetic disorders, particularly in infants, where a significant percentage of fatalities are attributed to these conditions. The company is dedicated to ensuring that affected children receive accurate, lower-dose treatments that can be administered multiple times as needed. By masking foreign proteins and shielding the viral capsid from antibodies, Chameleon seeks to increase the range of diseases that can be treated effectively, thereby improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

Trefoil Therapeutics is a biotechnology company dedicated to developing innovative treatments for endothelial cell-mediated diseases, particularly focusing on corneal conditions such as Fuchs dystrophy. Utilizing its engineered fibroblast growth factor-1 (FGF-1) technology platform, Trefoil aims to create first-in-class regenerative pharmacologic therapies to address serious ophthalmic diseases that can lead to preventable blindness. The company is currently advancing a topical eye drop formulation, TTHX1114, designed to treat ulcerative conditions affecting the cornea, which can result in corneal scarring and significant vision loss. With a management team possessing over 100 years of combined experience in pharmaceutical development and commercialization, Trefoil is committed to improving human health through protein-engineered therapies. The company has gained recognition within the biopharmaceutical community, receiving accolades from programs such as the CONNECT Springboard business plan competition and the Southeast Biotechnology Early Company Competition.

Apellis Pharmaceuticals Inc., established in 2009, is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Waltham, Massachusetts. The company specializes in developing therapeutic compounds that inhibit the complement system, focusing on autoimmune and inflammatory diseases with high unmet needs. Its lead product candidate, pegcetacoplan, is currently in Phase III trials for treating geographic atrophy in age-related macular degeneration and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, and in Phase II trials for various kidney and blood disorders. Additionally, Apellis is developing APL-9 for preventing immune system activation during adeno-associated virus administration. The company collaborates with Swedish Orphan Biovitrum AB (publ) to advance pegcetacoplan for treating multiple rare diseases.

Kezar Life Sciences, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company specializing in the discovery and development of small molecule therapeutics aimed at addressing unmet medical needs in autoimmunity and cancer. The company's lead candidate, KZR-616, is a selective immunoproteasome inhibitor currently undergoing Phase 2 clinical trials for various autoimmune conditions, including lupus nephritis and autoimmune hemolytic anemia, as well as Phase 1b/2 trials in systemic lupus erythematosus. In addition to KZR-616, the company is developing KZR-TBD, which targets both oncology and autoimmune disorders. Founded in 2015 and based in South San Francisco, California, Kezar Life Sciences leverages insights from protein homeostasis to advance its drug discovery efforts.

RAPT Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company specializing in immunology. It focuses on discovering, developing, and commercializing oral small-molecule therapies aimed at addressing significant unmet medical needs in oncology and inflammatory diseases. RAPT's proprietary discovery engine has led to the advancement of two drug candidates: FLX475, which selectively inhibits the migration of immunosuppressive regulatory T cells into tumors, and RPT193, which targets type 2 T helper cells in inflamed tissues. Both candidates have progressed to clinical trials within a short time frame since the company's inception. Additionally, RAPT is exploring further therapeutic targets, including general control nonderepressible 2 and hematopoietic progenitor kinase 1, which are currently in the discovery phase.

Arcellx is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative cell therapies for patients with cancer and other incurable diseases. The company aims to enhance the safety, effectiveness, and accessibility of these therapies. Its lead product candidate, CART-ddBCMA, targets relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma and is currently undergoing a Phase 1 clinical study. This therapy has received multiple designations from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, including Fast Track and Orphan Drug status. Additionally, Arcellx is advancing its controllable CAR-T therapy, ARC-SparX, through two clinical programs aimed at treating relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma and acute myeloid leukemia.

Amphivena Therapeutics is a clinical-stage immuno-oncology company focused on developing bifunctional antibody therapies aimed at treating hematologic malignancies. Founded in 2012 and based in South San Francisco, California, the company utilizes its proprietary ReSTORE platform to create dual-action biologics that enhance the patient's immune response against cancer. These therapies are designed to relieve immune suppression while activating T cells, thereby promoting the destruction of tumor cells and their precursors. The platform emphasizes avidity, target selectivity, and safety, and can be engineered to include additional functionalities for targeting solid tumors. As a subsidiary of Affimed N.V., Amphivena Therapeutics aims to provide innovative treatment options for patients facing blood cancers.