35Pharma is a biopharmaceutical company that designs and develops innovative biologics to address diseases with high unmet medical need. The company applies protein engineering and a deep understanding of transforming growth factor-beta structure-function relationships to create potent ligand traps for cardio-pulmonary and metabolic diseases, including pulmonary hypertension and musculoskeletal disorders.
Avenzo Therapeutics
Series A in 2024
Avenzo Therapeutics focuses on developing innovative cancer treatments. It operates a clinical-stage platform dedicated to creating novel therapies for underserved cancers, with a pipeline targeting rare and genomically defined cancers.
OnKure Therapeutics
Post in 2024
OnKure Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing precision medicines that target biologically validated drivers of cancers underserved by existing therapies. The company develops epigenetic therapies, including selective histone deacetylase inhibitors, and advances candidates such as OKI-179 and OKI-422 in preclinical and clinical development. Its approach aims to directly target malignant cells, combine with other targeted therapies, and prime the tumor microenvironment to enhance immunotherapies, with a pipeline of tumor-agnostic candidates designed for optimal efficacy and tolerability.
Outpace Bio
Series B in 2024
Outpace Bio is a biotechnology company that creates smart cell therapies aimed at improving efficacy and safety. It offers a platform that combines custom-designed biological functions with cellular control modalities that program the right response at the right time and place. It creates a mechanism-driven solution tailor-made to improve efficacy and safety. The company collaborates with Lyell Immunopharma to develop and commercialize a potential immune cell therapy for the treatment of cancer, auto-immune diseases, infectious diseases, degenerative diseases, regenerative medicine, metabolic disorders, and genetic disorders, enabling healthcare providers to cure a wide range of diseases as per patient's need.
Scorpion Therapeutics
Series C in 2024
Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, Scorpion Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company specializing in precision oncology. It develops targeted small-molecule drugs to treat cancer by focusing on three areas: therapies against known oncogenes, agents for currently undruggable targets, and drugs for new targets.
Cartesian Therapeutics
Post in 2024
Cartesian Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing cell and gene immunotherapies to treat cancer and autoimmune diseases. The company designs chimeric antigen receptor therapies for multiple myeloma and other cancers and uses its ImmTOR immune tolerance platform to mitigate antigen-specific immune responses. It operates a proprietary technology and manufacturing platform to deliver one or more mRNA molecules into cells to enhance their function, aiming to improve therapeutic performance.
Aardvark Therapeutics
Series C in 2024
Founded in 2017, Aardvark Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing small molecule therapeutics targeting metabolic diseases. Its lead product candidate, ARD-101, is an oral gut-restricted therapy designed to selectively activate bitter taste receptors for hunger-associated conditions.
Acrivon Therapeutics
Post in 2024
Acrivon Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing precision oncology therapeutics. The company employs a proteomics-based platform to identify patients whose tumors are likely to respond positively to specific treatments, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of its drug development efforts. Acrivon's pipeline features its lead program, ACR-368 (prexasertib), which is currently in Phase 2 trials, alongside several preclinical programs targeting key components of DNA damage response and cell cycle regulation, including WEE1 and PKMYT1. By concentrating on complex oncology drug targets that are often not addressed by traditional therapies, Acrivon aims to expedite the advancement of both in-licensed clinical-stage assets and its internally developed programs through accelerated registration trials.
Obsidian Therapeutics
Series C in 2024
Founded in 2015 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Obsidian Therapeutics develops next-generation controllable cell and gene therapies designed to extend adoptive immunotherapy to every cancer patient. Its innovative approach uses pharmacologic operating systems to precisely control protein activity in cells, enabling physicians to improve upon current cell therapies using simple, safe, orally-active marketed drugs.
Sudo Biosciences
Series B in 2024
Sudo Biosciences is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative medicines targeting the tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2) pseudokinase domain, which plays a critical role in immune-mediated inflammatory conditions. Its pipeline includes next-generation TYK2 inhibitors for treating multiple sclerosis and other neuroinflammatory diseases, as well as topical candidates for immune-mediated dermatologic conditions.
Sudo Biosciences
Series B in 2023
Sudo Biosciences is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative medicines targeting the tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2) pseudokinase domain, which plays a critical role in immune-mediated inflammatory conditions. Its pipeline includes next-generation TYK2 inhibitors for treating multiple sclerosis and other neuroinflammatory diseases, as well as topical candidates for immune-mediated dermatologic conditions.
Avalyn Pharma
Series C in 2023
Avalyn Pharma is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing therapies for severe respiratory diseases, notably idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Established in 2011, the company is headquartered in Seattle, Washington.
Lyra Therapeutics
Post in 2023
Lyra Therapeutics is a clinical-stage therapeutics company focused on the development and commercialization of localized treatments for ear, nose, and throat diseases. Its XTreo platform is designed to deliver medicines directly to affected tissue for sustained effect with a single administration. The company’s initial product candidates, LYR-210 and LYR-220, are bioresorbable polymeric matrices intended for in-office administration to provide up to six months of continuous therapy to the sinonasal passages for chronic rhinosinusitis, with mometasone furoate as the active ingredient. Founded in 2005 and headquartered in Watertown, Massachusetts.
ElevateBio
Series D in 2023
Founded in 2017, ElevateBio operates a portfolio of companies focused on developing, manufacturing, and commercializing transformative cell and gene therapies for severe diseases. Through strategic partnerships with leading scientists and inventors, along with a centralized facility for efficient translation of R&D into viable therapies, the company aims to deliver life-changing medicines to patients.
OnKure Therapeutics
Series C in 2023
OnKure Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing precision medicines that target biologically validated drivers of cancers underserved by existing therapies. The company develops epigenetic therapies, including selective histone deacetylase inhibitors, and advances candidates such as OKI-179 and OKI-422 in preclinical and clinical development. Its approach aims to directly target malignant cells, combine with other targeted therapies, and prime the tumor microenvironment to enhance immunotherapies, with a pipeline of tumor-agnostic candidates designed for optimal efficacy and tolerability.
Quanta Therapeutics
Series D in 2023
Quanta Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on developing novel cancer therapeutic candidates. It specializes in allosteric modulation to directly inhibit RAS-driven cancer types by restoring conformational control of active RAS signaling at the cell membrane.
Boundless Bio
Series C in 2023
Boundless Bio develops innovative cancer therapeutics focused on understanding and treating previously untreatable cancers. It specializes in targeting extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) biology, a key driver of aggressive cancers.
Entact Bio
Series A in 2022
Entact Bio is a biotechnology company that is in the preclinical stages of developing medications to improve protein function. It was founded by a team with deep roots in deubiquitinase (DUB) biochemistry, chemical biology, disease biology, and small-molecule drug development. The company's proprietary EncompassTM platform was designed to create enhancement-targeting chimeric (ENTACTM) medicines. ENTACs take advantage of DUBs' ability to regulate proteins.
MoonLake Immunotherapeutics
Post in 2022
MoonLake Immunotherapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing novel therapies for inflammatory skin and joint diseases. Its flagship product, SLK, is an investigational Nanobody targeting IL-17A and IL-17F, showing potential for disease modification in dermatology and rheumatology patients.
Triana Biomedicines
Series A in 2022
Triana Biomedicines develops a molecular glue discovery platform targeting challenging disease targets. Its drug discovery engine combines high-resolution structural insights, advanced computational tools, and proprietary chemical libraries.
Arkuda Therapeutics
Series B in 2022
Arkuda Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company founded in 2018 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on developing innovative treatments for patients with neurological diseases. The company utilizes new insights into progranulin and lysosomal biology to create therapies that aim to correct progranulin deficiency and address lysosomal dysfunction, particularly in genetically-defined frontotemporal dementia associated with mutations in the GRN gene. By targeting these underlying biological mechanisms, Arkuda's lead compounds are designed to improve cellular health in the brain, potentially delaying the progression of neurodegenerative diseases and the onset of their symptoms.
Metagenomi
Series B in 2022
Metagenomi is a genetic medicines company headquartered in Emeryville, California. It leverages metagenomics and machine learning to discover novel genome editing systems from diverse organisms, then convert these natural systems into compact, highly efficient, and specific tools aimed at reducing immune responses. The company maintains a proprietary, metagenomics-derived genome editing toolbox that includes programmable nucleases, base editors, small RNA-mediated integration systems (RIGS), large template RIGS, and CRISPR-associated transposases (CASTs). Its development focus is in vivo gene editing with a wholly owned pipeline, while exploring technology out-licensing for ex vivo cell therapies to pursue curative therapeutics for genetic diseases.
ImmPACT Bio
Series B in 2022
ImmPACT Bio USA Inc. is a cell therapy company focused on developing engineered T-cells for the treatment of solid tumors. The company specializes in creating chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies that target specific gene loss features in tumor cells, allowing for the selective destruction of cancerous tissues while preserving healthy ones. This technology aims to enhance tumor specificity, enabling the CAR-T cells to induce cytotoxicity only when engaging with tumor cells, thereby minimizing the safety risks commonly associated with existing CAR-T therapies. ImmPACT Bio's innovative approach seeks to improve treatment outcomes for cancer patients by offering a more precise and safer therapeutic option.
Enliven Therapeutics
Series B in 2022
Founded in 2019, Enliven Therapeutics is a precision oncology company based in Boulder, Colorado. It focuses on developing small molecule therapies to extend and improve patient lives by targeting clinically validated biological targets with industry-leading chemistry.
Ambagon Therapeutics
Series A in 2022
Ambagon Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on developing small-molecule therapeutics for cancer treatment. The company specializes in research aimed at stabilizing the interactions of oncogenic proteins, which are often difficult to modulate with traditional methods. By selectively enhancing the activity of tumor-suppressing proteins associated with transcription factors and oncoproteins, Ambagon aims to provide new therapeutic options for addressing significant unmet clinical needs in oncology. Founded by Christian Ottmann, Lucas Brunsveld, and Michelle Arkin, the company is dedicated to advancing innovative solutions in cancer care.
Korro Bio
Series B in 2022
Korro Bio Inc., established in 2018 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, specializes in developing nucleic acid-based therapeutics targeting specific sequences in genetic code to treat rare diseases. The company's proprietary platform enables efficient and selective RNA editing, leveraging natural processes common to all multicellular organisms. Korro Bio aims to advance this technology to effect changes in protein structure and function across multiple tissues, expanding the reach of genetic medicines with additional precision and tunability by editing RNA instead of DNA.
Acrivon Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Acrivon Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing precision oncology therapeutics. The company employs a proteomics-based platform to identify patients whose tumors are likely to respond positively to specific treatments, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of its drug development efforts. Acrivon's pipeline features its lead program, ACR-368 (prexasertib), which is currently in Phase 2 trials, alongside several preclinical programs targeting key components of DNA damage response and cell cycle regulation, including WEE1 and PKMYT1. By concentrating on complex oncology drug targets that are often not addressed by traditional therapies, Acrivon aims to expedite the advancement of both in-licensed clinical-stage assets and its internally developed programs through accelerated registration trials.
Quanta Therapeutics
Series C in 2021
Quanta Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on developing novel cancer therapeutic candidates. It specializes in allosteric modulation to directly inhibit RAS-driven cancer types by restoring conformational control of active RAS signaling at the cell membrane.
Structure Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Structure Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing oral small-molecule medicines for chronic diseases with high unmet medical needs. Its platform combines structure-based drug design, computational chemistry, and data integration to create orally available therapies that overcome limitations of biologics and peptide drugs. The company concentrates on targeting G-protein coupled receptors and other mechanisms, leveraging structural insights to identify differentiated, efficacious, and safe treatments. Its programs address cardiovascular, metabolic, and pulmonary conditions, with a focus on delivering convenient, effective medicines that can offer broad patient impact and commercial potential. Structure Therapeutics conducts its research and development activities across its pipeline within a single organization and seeks to advance clinical candidates through development.
Jasper Therapeutics
Post in 2021
Jasper Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Menlo Park, California, that specializes in developing therapeutic agents for hematopoietic stem cell transplants and gene therapies. Founded in 2018, the company aims to enhance the safety and efficacy of conditioning agents to broaden the application of curative therapies. Jasper's lead product, JSP191, is a humanized monoclonal antibody currently in clinical development, designed to act as a conditioning agent by selectively clearing hematopoietic stem cells from bone marrow in patients undergoing stem cell transplants. The company also utilizes an engineered hematopoietic stem cells platform to address the limitations of transplant grafts, thereby increasing the accessibility of both allogeneic and autologous gene-edited hematopoietic stem cell therapies for a larger patient population.
Obsidian Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Founded in 2015 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Obsidian Therapeutics develops next-generation controllable cell and gene therapies designed to extend adoptive immunotherapy to every cancer patient. Its innovative approach uses pharmacologic operating systems to precisely control protein activity in cells, enabling physicians to improve upon current cell therapies using simple, safe, orally-active marketed drugs.
Renovacor, Inc., established in 2013 and headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing transformative gene therapies for cardiovascular diseases. Currently in the preclinical stage, Renovacor's primary focus is on creating a recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based gene therapy targeting patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) caused by mutations in the Bcl2-associated athanogene 3 (BAG3) gene. This condition affects approximately 35,000 individuals in the United States and Europe, qualifying it as an orphan disease. Renovacor aims to improve patient outcomes by potentially preventing disease progression through a BAG3 gene replacement therapy, given the current five-year survival rate of only 50% for DCM patients despite standard care.
Tango Therapeutics
Post in 2021
Tango Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on developing cancer therapies based on the genetic principle of synthetic lethality. It aims to counteract tumor suppressor gene loss, reverse immune evasion in cancer cells, and identify effective drug combinations.
Nimbus Therapeutics
Venture Round in 2021
Nimbus Therapeutics, LLC is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on discovering and developing innovative medicines for serious diseases, including metabolic disorders, cancer, and immune-inflammatory conditions. Founded in 2009, the company utilizes a computational technology-driven approach to advance a pipeline of novel small-molecule therapeutics. Nimbus Therapeutics specializes in designing allosteric inhibitors, notably targeting Acetyl-CoA Carboxylase for conditions such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The company has established strategic partnerships with organizations like Charles River Laboratories and Celgene Corporation to enhance its drug development efforts. In March 2015, Nimbus Discovery rebranded itself as Nimbus Therapeutics to better reflect its transition into a clinical-stage enterprise.
Point Biopharma Global
Post in 2021
Point Biopharma Global Inc., established in 2019 and headquartered in Toronto, Canada, specializes in the development and commercialization of radioligand therapies for cancer treatment. The company's portfolio comprises several assets, including PNT2002, PNT2004, PNT2003, and PNT2001. Point Biopharma leverages its expertise in radioisotopes like Actinium-225 and Lutetium-177, along with advanced manufacturing technology and a patient-centric approach, to revolutionize theragnostic drug development and radioligand commercialization on a global scale.
NiKang Therapeutics
Series C in 2021
NiKang Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company established in 2017 and headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware. The company specializes in the discovery and development of small molecule oncology medicines aimed at addressing unmet medical needs in cancer treatment. Utilizing a discovery approach informed by target structure biology, NiKang employs structure-based drug design to facilitate the rapid and efficient development of proprietary drug candidates. This methodology enables the company to create innovative therapies with desirable pharmacological properties, ultimately aimed at improving the lives of patients through enhanced treatment options.
BioTheryX
Series E in 2021
BioTheryX is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on restoring protein homeostasis through targeted protein degradation. It specializes in developing innovative small molecule degraders, initially targeting cancer, using its proprietary PRODEGY platform built upon expertise in Cereblon binding.
Gennao Bio
Series A in 2021
Gennao Bio is a privately held company focused on developing innovative targeted nucleic acid therapeutics, primarily aimed at treating oncology and rare monogenic skeletal muscle diseases. The company utilizes its proprietary gene monoclonal antibody (GMAB) platform technology, which features a novel, cell-penetrating antibody that facilitates the non-covalent binding and delivery of various nucleic acid payloads to specific cells. This non-viral delivery system stands out from traditional gene therapy methods by allowing for multiple types of nucleic acids, enabling repeat dosing, and employing established manufacturing processes. Gennao Bio's approach aims to address significant unmet medical needs and improve patient outcomes in the relevant therapeutic areas.
Forge Biologics
Series B in 2021
Forge Biologics, Inc. is a contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) specializing in gene therapies and genetic medicines. Founded in 2019 and based in Columbus, Ohio, the company focuses on developing and manufacturing therapeutics, particularly for viral vector gene therapies aimed at treating genetic diseases. Notably, it offers a novel approach combining adeno-associated virus (AAV) and umbilical cord transplant to address infantile Krabbe disease, a severe neurodegenerative disorder. Additionally, Forge Biologics collaborates with scientists, physicians, biotech and pharmaceutical companies, and patient groups to facilitate the progression of gene therapy programs from preclinical development through to clinical and commercial-scale manufacturing. The company is committed to enabling access to transformative medicines for patients suffering from rare genetic diseases.
Boundless Bio
Series B in 2021
Boundless Bio develops innovative cancer therapeutics focused on understanding and treating previously untreatable cancers. It specializes in targeting extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) biology, a key driver of aggressive cancers.
ValenzaBio
Series A in 2021
ValenzaBio focuses on developing safe and effective treatments for patients with autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. The company employs biomarker-driven approaches to guide its research and clinical development. Its pipeline features several monoclonal antibodies designed to target surface antigens, aiming to reduce pathogenic subpopulations of autoreactive cells. ValenzaBio's most advanced program has achieved Phase 1 proof-of-concept in patients, while additional preclinical programs are exploring differentiated mechanisms of action. The organization is committed to addressing the unmet needs of patients through innovative therapeutic options.
Icosavax develops virus-like particle (VLP) vaccines using its proprietary computational design platform. Its primary focus is creating vaccines for life-threatening respiratory diseases, with current candidates targeting respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), human metapneumovirus (hMPV), and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Founded in 2017, the company aims to discover, develop, and commercialize vaccines against infectious diseases.
ElevateBio
Series C in 2021
Founded in 2017, ElevateBio operates a portfolio of companies focused on developing, manufacturing, and commercializing transformative cell and gene therapies for severe diseases. Through strategic partnerships with leading scientists and inventors, along with a centralized facility for efficient translation of R&D into viable therapies, the company aims to deliver life-changing medicines to patients.
Graphite Bio
Series B in 2021
Graphite Bio is a clinical-stage gene editing company focused on targeted DNA integration to treat serious diseases. Its platform aims to precisely insert, repair, or replace genetic sequences by integrating therapeutic cargoes at predefined genomic locations, enabling correction of mutations or replacement of disease-causing genes while preserving normal regulatory control. Based in South San Francisco, the company pursues high-efficiency precision gene editing to address underlying causes of disease.
OnKure Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
OnKure Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing precision medicines that target biologically validated drivers of cancers underserved by existing therapies. The company develops epigenetic therapies, including selective histone deacetylase inhibitors, and advances candidates such as OKI-179 and OKI-422 in preclinical and clinical development. Its approach aims to directly target malignant cells, combine with other targeted therapies, and prime the tumor microenvironment to enhance immunotherapies, with a pipeline of tumor-agnostic candidates designed for optimal efficacy and tolerability.
DTx Pharma
Series B in 2021
DTx Pharma, LLC is a biotechnology company headquartered in San Diego, California, specializing in the development and commercialization of fatty acid-conjugated peptide therapeutics. Founded in 2017, the company focuses on delivering RNA-based medicines to treat patients with rare and chronic diseases, including retinitis pigmentosa, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and various central nervous system disorders. DTx Pharma's innovative delivery technology addresses challenges faced by previous-generation platforms, such as poor pharmacokinetics and limited cellular uptake, thereby enhancing the efficiency of nucleic acid drug delivery across diverse tissues and cell types. The company aims to establish RNA therapeutics as a leading option for personalized treatment in multiple therapeutic areas.
Artiva Biotherapeutics
Series B in 2021
Artiva Biotherapeutics, Inc. is a San Diego-based biotechnology company focused on developing and manufacturing cellular immunotherapies for cancer treatment. Founded in 2019, Artiva specializes in off-the-shelf, allogeneic natural killer (NK) cell therapies aimed at treating both hematologic cancers and solid tumors. The company's product pipeline includes therapies that target CD20 and CD19 in B-cell lymphomas, as well as HER2 in various solid tumors. Artiva is committed to harnessing the therapeutic potential of NK cells while addressing challenges in their scalability and manufacturing. Its mission centers on delivering effective and safe cell therapies that are readily accessible to cancer patients in need.
ASLAN Pharmaceuticals
Post in 2021
ASLAN Pharmaceuticals, established in 2010 and based in Singapore, is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on immunology and oncology. It develops innovative treatments, including a monoclonal therapy for atopic dermatitis and a small molecule inhibitor for cancer, aiming to transform patients' lives. The company collaborates with prominent pharmaceutical partners and operates as a subsidiary of ASLAN Pharmaceuticals Limited.
Viracta Therapeutics
Post in 2021
Viracta Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage drug development company based in Cardiff, California, that specializes in precision oncology focused on virus-associated malignancies. The company utilizes a viral activation therapy platform to develop treatments for cancers linked to the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) and other virus-related diseases. Its lead investigational drug, nanatinostat, is being evaluated in combination with the antiviral valganciclovir as a potential oral therapy for EBV-positive lymphoma, including post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder, plasmablastic lymphoma, and angioimmunoblastic T cell lymphoma. Viracta is also exploring the application of this approach to other EBV-associated conditions, such as nasopharyngeal carcinoma and gastric carcinoma. Founded in 2007 and rebranded from HemaQuest Pharmaceuticals in 2015, Viracta Therapeutics is actively conducting multiple clinical trials to advance its therapeutic candidates.
Verve Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Verve Therapeutics is a biotechnology company developing genetic medicines for cardiovascular disease, aiming to transform treatment from chronic management to single-course gene editing therapies. It leverages human genetics analysis and gene-editing technology, with expertise in cardiovascular medicine, human genetics, gene editing, delivery technologies, drug development, and commercialization.
Vera Therapeutics
Series C in 2021
Vera Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California, founded in 2016 and formerly known as Trucode Gene Repair, Inc. The company focuses on developing innovative biologic therapeutics with the potential to transform treatment for patients suffering from serious immunological diseases and genetic disorders. Its lead product candidate, atacicept, is a fusion protein administered as a subcutaneous injection once weekly, designed to inhibit factors that stimulate the production of autoantibodies associated with autoimmune diseases. Additionally, Vera Therapeutics is utilizing gene-editing technology aimed at addressing conditions such as sickle cell disease and cystic fibrosis, striving to enhance gene detection and regulation for improved patient outcomes.
Affinivax
Series C in 2021
Affinivax, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Lexington, Massachusetts, specializing in the development of vaccines using its innovative Multiple Antigen Presenting System (MAPS) technology. Founded in 2014, the company aims to enhance the protection against a range of infectious diseases that affect both children and adults globally. MAPS technology allows for the effective binding of protective polysaccharides and proteins within a single vaccine, inducing robust immune responses. Affinivax is advancing vaccine programs targeting significant pathogens, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, which contributes to considerable morbidity and mortality worldwide. The company leverages insights from leading experts in infectious diseases and has secured exclusive intellectual property rights related to its MAPS platform from Boston Children’s Hospital, with notable backing from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Scorpion Therapeutics
Series B in 2021
Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, Scorpion Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company specializing in precision oncology. It develops targeted small-molecule drugs to treat cancer by focusing on three areas: therapies against known oncogenes, agents for currently undruggable targets, and drugs for new targets.
Immuneering
Venture Round in 2021
Immuneering Corporation is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with an additional office in New York, New York. Founded in 2008, it specializes in genetic, genomic, and proteomic data analysis for pharmaceutical clients, aiming to enhance the clinical and commercial success of medicines. The company utilizes advanced techniques such as gene expression analysis, proteomics, and next-generation sequencing to uncover biological insights that inform drug development. Immuneering's expertise in translational bioinformatics is applied throughout the drug development process, particularly for oncologic and neurologic diseases, and is integral to its proprietary computational platform, known as Disease Cancelling Technology. This platform supports drug discovery initiatives and provides computational biology services to both pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, contributing to the creation of therapies for serious illnesses, including cancer and autoimmune diseases.
Imago BioSciences
Series C in 2020
Imago BioSciences, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Redwood City, California, founded in 2012. The company specializes in developing novel small molecule therapeutics aimed at treating hematologic diseases, including myelodysplastic syndromes, acute myelogenous leukemia, and other conditions associated with bone marrow failure. Central to its research is the enzyme lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1), which is involved in the regulation of blood cell production. Imago BioSciences is focused on translating advanced scientific insights into transformative therapies that can alter the course of disease, thereby enhancing the quality and longevity of life for patients. Its lead product candidate, Bomedemstat, is an orally administered LSD1 inhibitor currently under evaluation for its potential to modify disease progression in patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms, a group of chronic bone marrow cancers.
Decibel Therapeutics
Series D in 2020
Decibel Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing innovative therapies aimed at protecting, repairing, and restoring hearing. The company addresses various hearing disorders, including those related to pediatric cancers, cystic fibrosis, noise exposure, age-related and genetic hearing loss, as well as conditions characterized by persistent tinnitus. Decibel Therapeutics employs a multifaceted approach that includes drug delivery to the inner ear, advanced imaging techniques, and pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic modeling. The company leverages its expertise in inner ear biology, single-cell genomics, and bioinformatics to develop effective treatments for hearing loss and related disorders. Established in 2013 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, Decibel Therapeutics was originally known as Hearing, Inc. before rebranding in 2014.
Nuvation Bio is a global biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing innovative therapies for oncology, focusing on patients with difficult-to-treat cancers where conventional treatments have proven ineffective.
Rezolute Inc., established in 2010 and headquartered in Redwood City, California, is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing therapies for rare and metabolic diseases. The company's primary product candidate, RZ358, is a human monoclonal antibody currently in Phase 2b trials for treating congenital hyperinsulinism, an ultra-rare pediatric genetic disorder. Additionally, Rezolute is advancing RZ402, a small molecule plasma kallikrein inhibitor in preclinical stages for diabetic macular edema treatment. The company aims to improve existing standards of care by applying proprietary formulation and manufacturing capabilities to known molecules.
Talaris Therapeutics
Series B in 2020
Talaris Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative cell therapies aimed at eliminating chronic immunosuppression for organ transplant recipients. The company's leading product, FCR001, is designed to enable living donor kidney transplant recipients to discontinue all chronic immunosuppression therapy within twelve months post-transplant. In addition to its applications in organ transplantation, Talaris’s technology facilitates the safe use of hematopoietic stem cells from unmatched and unrelated donors for bone marrow transplants, reducing the associated toxicity and risks of traditional methods. Founded in 1988 and originally named Regenerex, Inc., Talaris Therapeutics rebranded in March 2019. The company is headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, with an additional office in Wellesley, Massachusetts.
Olema Oncology
Series C in 2020
Olema Oncology is a preclinical biotechnology company dedicated to developing innovative therapies for the treatment and prevention of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. The company specializes in discovering and commercializing targeted treatments specifically designed for women's cancers. By leveraging its extensive understanding of endocrine-driven cancers, nuclear receptors, and mechanisms of acquired resistance, Olema aims to create compounds that surpass existing therapies. The company's focus is on transforming the standard of care for both pre- and post-menopausal women with cancer, with an emphasis on developing more effective and convenient treatment options. Olema's pipeline includes drug candidates such as OP-1250 and OP-3136, which have progressed through discovery and preclinical studies.
Flame Biosciences
Venture Round in 2020
Flame Biosciences is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in New York, founded in 2017. The company specializes in developing innovative therapies for cancer and other inflammatory conditions. Its portfolio includes FL-101 therapy, designed to treat lung cancers driven by inflammation, and FL-201, aimed at reducing chronic inflammation in patients. Flame Biosciences is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals suffering from debilitating and life-threatening diseases through its transformative therapeutic approaches.
ESCAPE Bio
Venture Round in 2020
ESCAPE Bio is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing small molecule therapies for genetically defined subpopulations affected by neurodegenerative diseases. Founded in 2015 and based in South San Francisco, California, the company aims to improve the lives of patients suffering from conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and sphingolipid storage disorders. ESCAPE Bio's pipeline includes innovative candidates like ESB1609, a small molecule S1P5 receptor agonist targeting CNS lysosomal storage disorders, and ESB5070, a kinase inhibitor specifically designed for Parkinson's patients with the LRRK2 G2019S variant. Additionally, the company is developing a program aimed at addressing the needs of Alzheimer's patients who carry the ApoE4 risk allele. Through its precision-targeted approach, ESCAPE Bio seeks to provide effective treatment options for individuals with these complex genetic profiles.
Korro Bio
Series A in 2020
Korro Bio Inc., established in 2018 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, specializes in developing nucleic acid-based therapeutics targeting specific sequences in genetic code to treat rare diseases. The company's proprietary platform enables efficient and selective RNA editing, leveraging natural processes common to all multicellular organisms. Korro Bio aims to advance this technology to effect changes in protein structure and function across multiple tissues, expanding the reach of genetic medicines with additional precision and tunability by editing RNA instead of DNA.
Kinnate Biopharma
Series C in 2020
Kinnate Biopharma Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the discovery and development of small molecule kinase inhibitors aimed at treating genomically defined cancers. Established in 2018 and headquartered in San Diego, California, the company focuses on precision oncology therapeutics, leveraging its expertise in structure-based drug discovery and translational research. Kinnate's lead product candidate, KIN002787, is a rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma inhibitor currently in preclinical development for lung cancer, melanoma, and other solid tumors. Additionally, the company is advancing other preclinical candidates, including KIN003, which targets cancer-associated alterations in FGFR2 and FGFR3 genes, and a Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 12 inhibitor in the KIN004 program. Kinnate Biopharma is committed to developing targeted therapeutics for underserved patient populations, aiming to expand the reach of precision medicine in cancer treatment.
Kronos Bio
Private Equity Round in 2020
Kronos Bio, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in San Mateo, California, focused on the discovery and development of innovative cancer therapeutics. Established in 2017, the company aims to address historically challenging cancer targets through precision medicine. Its primary product candidates include entospletinib, a selective inhibitor of spleen tyrosine kinase intended for acute myeloid leukemia patients, and KB-0742, an orally bioavailable inhibitor of cyclin-dependent kinase 9 for treating MYC-amplified solid tumors. Kronos Bio employs advanced technologies, such as high-throughput small-molecule microarrays and targeted protein degradation, to identify potent and selective compounds that target dysregulated transcription factors and other key drivers of oncogenic signaling.
Cerevel Therapeutics
Post in 2020
Cerevel Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative therapies for neuroscience diseases. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company is advancing a diverse pipeline that includes five clinical-stage investigational therapies and several preclinical compounds targeting conditions such as schizophrenia, epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, and substance use disorder. Key products under development include CVL-231, a positive allosteric modulator for schizophrenia; CVL-865, which is being tested for drug-resistant focal onset epilepsy and acute anxiety; and Tavapadon, a selective dopamine D1/D5 partial agonist for Parkinson's disease. Cerevel Therapeutics employs a unique approach that leverages expertise in neurocircuitry and receptor selectivity to address unmet medical needs in the field of neuroscience.
Praxis Precision Medicines
Series C in 2020
Praxis Precision Medicines is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing therapies for central nervous system disorders marked by neuronal imbalance. Established in 2015 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company leverages genetic insights to create innovative treatments for neurological and psychiatric conditions. Its leading product candidates include PRAX-114, an allosteric modulator targeting GABAA receptors, currently undergoing Phase IIa trials for major depressive disorder and perimenopausal depression, and PRAX-944, a selective inhibitor of T-type calcium channels in Phase IIa trials for essential tremor. Additionally, Praxis is advancing PRAX-562, a sodium current blocker in Phase I trials for severe pediatric epilepsy and adult cephalgia, along with PRAX-222, an antisense oligonucleotide aimed at treating patients with SCN2A epilepsy, and a program focused on KCNT1-related epilepsy. The company has established collaborations and licensing agreements with various organizations to enhance its research and development efforts.
Olema Oncology
Series B in 2020
Olema Oncology is a preclinical biotechnology company dedicated to developing innovative therapies for the treatment and prevention of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. The company specializes in discovering and commercializing targeted treatments specifically designed for women's cancers. By leveraging its extensive understanding of endocrine-driven cancers, nuclear receptors, and mechanisms of acquired resistance, Olema aims to create compounds that surpass existing therapies. The company's focus is on transforming the standard of care for both pre- and post-menopausal women with cancer, with an emphasis on developing more effective and convenient treatment options. Olema's pipeline includes drug candidates such as OP-1250 and OP-3136, which have progressed through discovery and preclinical studies.
Bolt Biotherapeutics
Series C in 2020
Bolt Biotherapeutics is a biotechnology company developing cancer immunotherapies based on the Boltbody platform, which links tumor-targeting antibodies to immune-stimulating payloads to activate innate and adaptive immune responses against solid tumors. The platform aims to transform non-responsive, or cold, tumors into immunologically active ones by delivering immune stimulants at the tumor site. The company’s pipeline includes BDC-1001 as a monotherapy for HER2-expressing solid tumors, with additional candidates such as BDC-3042 and Next-Gen ISAC designed to broaden its immuno-oncology program. Bolt Biotherapeutics focuses on myeloid biology and tumor-targeted therapies to leverage immune mechanisms for cancer treatment.
Athira Pharma
Series B in 2020
Athira Pharma is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing innovative therapies for brain disorders. Its lead product candidate, ATH-1017, aims to treat neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's by restoring neuronal health.
ElevateBio
Series B in 2020
Founded in 2017, ElevateBio operates a portfolio of companies focused on developing, manufacturing, and commercializing transformative cell and gene therapies for severe diseases. Through strategic partnerships with leading scientists and inventors, along with a centralized facility for efficient translation of R&D into viable therapies, the company aims to deliver life-changing medicines to patients.
Pliant Therapeutics
Series C in 2020
Pliant Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in South San Francisco, California, dedicated to discovering and developing innovative therapies for fibrotic diseases. Its lead product candidate, PLN-74809, is an oral small-molecule dual selective inhibitor of avß6 and avß1 integrins, targeting idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and primary sclerosing cholangitis. PLN-74809 has received Orphan Drug Designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for both indications and is currently undergoing Phase 2a clinical trials. The company is also developing PLN-1474, a small-molecule selective inhibitor of avß1, for the treatment of liver fibrosis associated with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, which is in Phase 1 trials. Founded in 2015, Pliant Therapeutics is also advancing preclinical programs aimed at addressing oncology and muscular dystrophies.
Spruce Biosciences
Series B in 2020
Spruce Biosciences is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing therapies for rare endocrine disorders. Its pipeline includes tildacerfont for classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia in adults and children, with ongoing clinical development, and Tralesinidase Alfa in its portfolio. The company collaborates with Eli Lilly to research, develop, and commercialize compounds. Founded in 2014, Spruce Biosciences is headquartered in Daly City, California, and aims to deliver meaningful therapies for patients with rare endocrine diseases.
Zentalis Pharmaceuticals
Series C in 2019
Zentalis Pharmaceuticals is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing small molecule therapeutics targeting cancer's underlying biological pathways. Its pipeline includes two lead product candidates: ZN-c5 for advanced estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, and ZN-c3 for advanced solid tumors and platinum-resistant ovarian cancer.
Jasper Therapeutics
Series A in 2019
Jasper Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Menlo Park, California, that specializes in developing therapeutic agents for hematopoietic stem cell transplants and gene therapies. Founded in 2018, the company aims to enhance the safety and efficacy of conditioning agents to broaden the application of curative therapies. Jasper's lead product, JSP191, is a humanized monoclonal antibody currently in clinical development, designed to act as a conditioning agent by selectively clearing hematopoietic stem cells from bone marrow in patients undergoing stem cell transplants. The company also utilizes an engineered hematopoietic stem cells platform to address the limitations of transplant grafts, thereby increasing the accessibility of both allogeneic and autologous gene-edited hematopoietic stem cell therapies for a larger patient population.
Pieris Pharmaceuticals
Post in 2019
Pieris Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Boston, Massachusetts, focused on the development of anticalin-based therapeutics for treating various medical conditions, including cancer and severe asthma. Anticalins are engineered proteins derived from lipocalins, naturally occurring human proteins that can bind and transport a variety of molecules. The company's lead programs include PRS-060, a drug candidate in Phase I clinical trials targeting IL-4Ra for asthma and inflammatory diseases, and PRS-343, a bispecific protein in Phase I trials for oncology. Pieris is also advancing PRS-344, a bispecific anticalin-antibody fusion protein in preclinical development, and PRS-080, currently in Phase IIa trials for targeting hepcidin in patients with functional iron deficiency. Pieris collaborates with strategic partners and research institutions to enhance its development efforts, showcasing a robust pipeline aimed at addressing significant unmet medical needs. The company was founded in 2000 and is recognized for its innovative approach in biotherapeutics.
Oncorus, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, dedicated to developing innovative viral immunotherapies for cancer treatment. The company's lead product candidate, ONCR-177, utilizes an oncolytic herpes simplex virus type 1 platform and is currently undergoing Phase I clinical trials to assess its efficacy against various cancers. In addition to ONCR-177, Oncorus is advancing its ONCR-GBM program aimed at treating brain cancer, along with synthetic viral immunotherapies derived from Coxsackievirus A21 and Seneca Valley Virus. The company has established a clinical trial collaboration with MSD International GmbH to evaluate the safety and tolerability of ONCR-177 in combination with Merck’s KEYTRUDA immunotherapy. Founded in 2015, Oncorus is committed to improving patient outcomes and has pledged to contribute a portion of its product sales to support cancer research and care in developing regions.
Allogene Therapeutics
Convertible Note in 2018
Allogene Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotech company focused on immuno-oncology, developing genetically engineered allogeneic T-cell therapies for cancer. The company builds a pipeline of off-the-shelf donor-derived CAR-T products using gene-editing and proprietary cell-manufacturing technologies to enable broader patient eligibility and scalable production. Its programs include UCART19 for relapsed or refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia and other allogeneic CAR-T candidates targeting lymphoma, leukemia, autoimmune diseases, and solid tumors. Revenue is primarily generated from collaborations and licensing agreements.
Sutro Biopharma
Series E in 2018
Sutro Biopharma is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing next-generation protein therapeutics for cancer and autoimmune disorders using its proprietary XpressCF platform. Its pipeline includes STRO-001 for multiple myeloma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and STRO-002 for ovarian and endometrial cancers.