Helogen

Helogen is a San Diego-based biotechnology company specializing in the development of novel small molecule therapeutics through advanced halogenation chemistry. Founded by world-renowned chemists from Scripps Research—Phil Baran, Jin-Quan Yu, and Keary Engle—the company utilizes a proprietary platform to achieve site-selective halogenation of complex molecules. This approach allows for the optimization of drug-like properties, such as potency, metabolic stability, and lipophilicity, which are often enhanced by the strategic introduction of halogen atoms. Helogen is backed by leading life science investors like ARCH Venture Partners and F-Prime Capital. The company's technology aims to unlock previously inaccessible chemical space for a wide range of therapeutic indications. Currently operating in stealth mode, Helogen is building a pipeline of differentiated small molecule candidates leveraging its unique chemical expertise.