# Versanis Bio

Startup profile on Capital Atlas: https://capitalatlas.ai/startups/versanis-bio

- Industry: Pharmaceuticals
- Headquarters: New York, US
- Website: www.versanisbio.com
- Total disclosed funding: $70M
- Latest round: Series A (Aug 31, 2021)
- Investors on record: 3

## About

Versanis Bio, Inc. is a U.S.-based biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative treatments for obesity and cardiometabolic diseases, utilizing a unique biological approach to enhance fat and muscle metabolism.Founded in 2020 and headquartered in New York, US, Versanis Bio, Inc. specializes in the development of therapies for obesity and cardiometabolic disorders. The company has successfully completed a TRADE SALE in July 2023, raising USD 1.925 bn with Eli Lilly and Company as the investor. Versanis Bio has conducted 2 investment deals, enhancing its research capabilities in the process.Versanis focuses on developing transformative treatments for obesity and cardiometabolic diseases, primarily through a unique approach that targets the activin type II receptors (ActRII) found in fat and muscle cells. The company leverages its understanding of activin biology and incretin biology to create therapies that aim to regulate fat and muscle metabolism. Their research addresses the mechanisms that promote lipid storage, a significant contributor to visceral fat accumulation and obesity, while also inhibiting muscle growth and promoting muscle atrophy. Versanis aims to empower individuals living with obesity by offering solutions that may improve body composition and metabolism while aiding in fat loss. Products are marketed to healthcare providers and are primarily aimed at patients in the U.S., where obesity rates are notably high, as well as in select European markets where similar health challenges exist.Versanis generates revenue through partnerships and collaborations with healthcare providers and pharmaceutical companies focused on obesity treatment. The transaction structure typically involves licensing agreements or collaborations where Versanis provides its proprietary research and development capabilities, leading to co-developed therapies. Revenue streams are expected to align with the commercialization of their flagship products aimed at obesity and related conditions. The company’s financial model includes milestones based on regulatory approvals and sales performance, as well as potential royalties on product sales. Direct interactions with healthcare professionals allow for tailored solutions to meet patient needs, ensuring effective delivery of their innovative treatments in the marketplace.In July 2023, Eli Lilly and Company agreed to acquire Versanis Bio, Inc. for a total of USD 1.925 bn, including upfront payment and future milestone payments. This acquisition will allow Eli Lilly to explore new medicines targeting obesity. Versanis plans to utilize this funding to enhance its development pipeline and expand its market presence, particularly in the U.S. and European regions, where obesity rates are high. The company is expected to focus on commercializing its innovative therapies in the coming years, aiming to improve healthcare outcomes for individuals suffering from obesity.

## Funding rounds

- Series A, Aug 31, 2021, $70M — Atlas Venture, Medicxi, Aditum Bio

## Investors

- Atlas Venture (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/atlas-venture) — Series A
- Medicxi (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/medicxi) — Series A
- Aditum Bio (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/aditum-bio) — Series A