SAN FRANCISCO – What is the prognosis for the near and long term for life sciences in China? Representatives from venture capital (VC) groups tackled that question, with answers ranging from "tempered enthusiasm" to "pessimistic," at least for the next 18 months. They made those responses during the second annual China Showcase, held in conjunction with the Biotech Showcase this week.
SAN FRANCISCO – What is the prognosis for the near and long term for life sciences in China? Representatives from venture capital (VC) groups tackled this question, with answers ranging from "tempered enthusiasm" to "pessimistic," at least for the next 18 months. They made these responses Sunday during the second annual China Showcase, held in conjunction with the Biotech Showcase this week in San Francisco.
Kalamazoo, Mich.-based Ablative Solutions Inc. is looking to make a mark in the hypertension space. To that end, it has reported the first close of its $77 million series D funding round to back the completion of clinical trials for U.S. and European regulatory submissions for its renal denervation technology.
Austin, Texas-based Apollo Endosurgery Inc. has sold its Surgical product line, which consists of the Lap-Band adjustable gastric banding system and other accessories used in laparoscopic bariatric surgery, to Reshape Lifesciences Inc. in a deal worth up to $17 million. The definitive transaction agreements were signed and closed Dec. 17.
Minneapolis-based Francis Medical Inc., which is developing a vapor ablation therapy to treat endourology cancers, has wrapped up an $18 million round of series A financing, with an eye toward additional development activities.
Paris-based Carthera SA, which is looking to help glioblastoma patients, closed its series B funding round, raising €9 million (US$10.3 million). The proceeds will go toward advancing the company's Sonocloud technology and developing its clinical pipeline.
