Bridging Biomedical Breakthroughs Summit

The Bridging Biomedical Breakthroughs Summit is a premier biannual event hosted in Fall and Winter quarters by the School of Biological Sciences, in partnership with the Office of Innovation and Commercialization. We bring together a diverse community of life sciences innovators—from students and postdocs to faculty and industry leaders—creating a platform for collaboration between scientific discovery and entrepreneurial vision. Featuring world-renowned investors, CEOs, and faculty as guest speakers, the summit fosters valuable conversations that help translate cutting-edge research into impactful biomedical solutions.

The summit features venture capitalists and CEOs sharing key insights on emerging trends and funding opportunities, helping accelerate the translation of scientific discoveries into real-world applications. Faculty entrepreneurs, selected from the Faculty Innovation Pitch, present their groundbreaking research to eminent investors and industry leaders, who offer valuable feedback and guidance. Through this powerful collaboration, we aim to drive health innovation, foster meaningful connections, and tackle global challenges.

Date: Friday, Nov. 7, 2025

Hosted by: School of Biological Sciences, in partnership with School of Medicine, and Office of Innovation and Commercialization

Theme: Innovations in rare disease, and cell and gene therapies

Time: 1:00-5:30 p.m.

Location: Kavli Auditorium, 3rd Floor, Tata Hall

Registration

Agenda Highlights:

• 1:00-1:30: Check-In and Networking
• 1:30-1:35: Welcome Remarks
• 1:35-2:25: CEO Fireside Chat
• 2:25-3:15: VC Confidential Panel
• 3:15-3:30: Break
• 3:30-4:20: Faculty Entrepreneur Presentations (see faculty presenters below)
• 4:20-4:30: Closing Remarks
• 4:30-5:30: Hosted Networking Reception

Faculty Presenters:

Paul Grossfeld, M.D.

Professor of Pediatrics, School of Medicine

Grossfeld Lab

Dr. Paul Grossfeld’s lab investigates the genetic causes of congenital heart defects, particularly hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS). In ETS1 knockout mice displaying a non-compaction phenotype due to reduced myocyte proliferation, his team identified three novel factors that promote cardiomyocyte growth. These factors not only improve non-compaction in mice but may also stimulate regeneration in adult hearts following myocardial infarction. This research reveals promising molecular targets for heart repair and regeneration, offering hope for therapeutic interventions across pediatric and adult cardiac conditions.

Uri Manor, PhD

Assistant Professor, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, School of Biological Sciences

Manor Lab

Dr. Uri Manor leads research into how organelles like mitochondria and lysosomes organize within cells and how disruptions lead to disease. Focusing on Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2A (CMT2A), his lab discovered that MFN2 mutations impair mitochondrial fusion and lysosomal trafficking, disrupting axonal cargo delivery. Using high-resolution live imaging, proteomics, and AI analysis in patient-derived neurons and a novel rat model, the lab explores disease mechanisms and tests treatments such as GTPase agonists and antisense oligonucleotides. The goal is to correct cellular dysfunctions and develop precision therapies for inherited neuropathies and other organelle-related diseases.

Matthew Shtrahman, M.D., PhD

Assistant Professor, Neurosciences, School of Medicine

Shtrahman Lab

Dr. Matthew Shtrahman’s lab explores AAV (adeno-associated virus) biology and its application in gene therapy. His research focuses on optimizing AAV vector design, improving gene delivery efficiency, and reducing immune responses. By studying host-virus interactions at a mechanistic level, the lab aims to enhance the safety and efficacy of AAV-based therapeutics for genetic and acquired diseases. The goal is to expand the potential of gene therapy through novel engineering approaches, making it a viable treatment for a broader range of patients and conditions.