Axial: https://linktr.ee/axialxyz
Axial partners with great founders and inventors. We invest in early-stage life sciences companies such as Appia Bio, Seranova Bio, Delix Therapeutics, Simcha Therapeutics, among others often when they are no more than an idea. We are fanatical about helping the rare inventor who is compelled to build their own enduring business. If you or someone you know has a great idea or company in life sciences, Axial would be excited to get to know you and possibly invest in your vision and company . We are excited to be in business with you - email us at info@axialvc.com
AskBio is a vertically integrated gene therapy company acquired by Bayer for $2B in cash in 2020. Founded by Sheila Mikhail (one of the best CEOs in biotech) in 2001 with support from Jude Samulski (1st to clone AAVs), AskBio brought design & manufacturing under one roof.
AskBio initially focused on collecting AAV gene therapy IP and licensing it. Then they moved to company incubation with Chatham and Bamboo Therapeutics, acquired by Baxter & Pfizer, respectively. Enabled by AAVs ability to be engineered by serotypes to deliver to specific tissues.
This allowed the founders to retain ownership/control of their business and be cash-flow positive for periods of time. Pretty rare in biotech. Then started expanding their platform through M&A with Synpromics (promoter design) and RoverMed (nanoparticles).
Learn more about AskBio here. Given the history of the company, I’m sure they will spin-out something down-the-line: https://www.askbio.com/bayer-acquires-askbio-to-broaden-innovation-base-in-cell-and-gene-therapy/