Ventures

Epilepsy causes uncontrolled seizures, greatly reducing quality of life and sometimes leading to early death. Over 50 million people worldwide have epilepsy, but only two-thirds respond to medication. For those with drug-resistant epilepsy, treatment options are limited and often ineffective. MIR Therapeutics is developing a new gene therapy to provide lasting and powerful seizure control for drug-resistant epilepsy patients. Their therapy delivers microRNA-335 to the affected brain regions using an AAV9 viral vector, which helps control hyperexcitability by regulating voltage-gated sodium channels. This results in fewer and less severe seizures.

The traditional practice of immediately cutting the umbilical cord after birth can pose risks to newborns, causing a dangerous drop in blood flow and oxygen levels. Concord Neonatal offers a solution by allowing babies to receive lifesaving care with the umbilical cord intact until they start breathing on their own. This innovation, aims to prevent birth complications and long-term disabilities, while keeping the baby close to the mother and maximizing the benefits of placental blood until the baby can breathe independently.

Porous GmbH has developed an ultrasound technology that accurately diagnoses cortical bone health, addressing the limitations of traditional methods. Osteoporosis affects millions globally, leading to frequent and costly fractures. Current diagnostics often miss early-stage bone deterioration, but Porous GmbH’s patented algorithms allow ultrasound to measure bone quality at a microscopic level for a safer and more precise method for early detection of osteoporosis, also reducing healthcare costs.

Neurolieve Biosciences, a pre-clinical stage company, is developing Fc2-13 GalR2, an innovative bioengineered protein (FC fusion protein) targeting neuropathic pain. Peripheral Neuropathy, a debilitating condition affecting millions, damages the peripheral nervous system, causing severe discomfort and lowering quality of life. The fusion protein reduces peripheral neuron excitability, providing pain relief. After successful in vitro and in vivo validations, the company is advancing towards GLP toxicology studies completion.

Respiosa offers a groundbreaking solution for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition affecting millions worldwide. Unlike traditional treatments like CPAP or surgery, Respiosa provides a minimally invasive, surgically implanted solution specifically targeting tongue-based obstruction, a common cause of OSA. Developed by Philips, Respiosa promises effective, durable, and adjustable therapy with a quick recovery time. With its natural and unobtrusive design, Respiosa ensures high patient adherence, addressing a significant gap in OSA treatment options.

Revadix is a pioneering biotech venture focused on transforming the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF), a common heart rhythm disorder. The company is developing AM-001, a novel therapy that targets the EPAC-1 protein, aiming to restore normal heart rhythm and offer a curative solution rather than just symptom management. Revadix’s approach promises to improve patient outcomes with fewer side effects and better long-term health results. Supported by NLC Health Ventures, the company is advancing AM-001 towards clinical trials, with the potential to revolutionize cardiovascular care.

Karla Therapeutics is exploring an approach, treating mental disorders by leveraging our immune system. Neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD and OCD are increasingly prevalent, yet treatment options often have side effects and limited effectiveness. By bridging between the immune system and mental health, Karla aims to revolutionize treatment methods. Their research focuses on a specific protein identified by top-tier immunologists, showing promising results in early experiments for OCD, anxiety, and ADHD.

MindAffect is redefining what’s possible in diagnostics. By harnessing Brain-Computer Interface technology and AI, we can “read” how the brain reacts to sound and visual stimuli—objectively, in real time, and without requiring a single response from the patient. At the core is our patented and clinically validated Rapid CAEP® technology, which captures the brain’s automatic reactions. This breakthrough allows clinicians to diagnose patients who would otherwise be difficult or impossible to test—such as infants, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. In a world where over two billion people are underserved by current diagnostic methods, this changes everything. Our first product, Sofi, is the world’s fastest objective hearing diagnostic system, delivering accurate hearing thresholds in minutes. Sofi has been validated in leading hospitals, championed by key opinion leaders across the audiology community, and recognized globally—winning the Innovation Award at the World Congress of Audiology