Codana

CODA Biotherapeutics was a preclinical-stage biotech based in South San Francisco focused on developing a novel chemogenetic gene therapy platform to treat severe neurological disorders such as focal epilepsy and chronic neuropathic pain. Their approach involved using viral vectors to deliver engineered "switch" proteins into specific neurons so that their activity could be precisely controlled with an orally administered small molecule drug—enabling reversible modulation of disease-relevant neural circuits. Despite initial venture backing from major investors like Versant Ventures and MPM Capital and assembling an experienced leadership team with expertise spanning drug discovery through clinical development, the company ceased operations quietly in early-to-mid 2023 due to tough market conditions before any programs reached human trials.