A review of biopharma start-up dealmaking and financing activity from July through September 2019, based on data from Strategic Transactions. Fundraising activity fell 23% from the second to the third quarter, but start-up M&A surged, led by Vertex's acquisition of Semma. 

Derived from Strategic Transactions, Informa’s premium source for tracking life sciences deal activity, the Venture Funding Deals column provides a comprehensive monthly review of emerging biopharmaceutical companies that have received venture funding. This month’s column covers deals announced in July and August.

Novo Nordisk is making good on its strategy to prioritize the cardiovascular sector. Its latest deal sees the Danish pharma invest in Staten Biotechnology’s hypertriglyceridemia asset, with potential to acquire the company.

A series of setbacks for gemcabene has left the Livonia, MI-based company reeling, but management remains committed to its lead product.