Quench

Quench Bio was a Cambridge-based biotechnology company dedicated to discovering and developing small molecule medicines for severe inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. The company's research centered on Gasdermin D, a protein that forms pores in cell membranes to trigger pyroptosis and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. By inhibiting Gasdermin D, Quench aimed to treat conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus at their source. Despite raising $50 million in Series A funding and advancing its lead program, the company chose to wind down in 2021. This decision followed the realization that their lead compounds did not meet the stringent criteria necessary for clinical success. The company's closure was notable for the proactive return of capital to its investors.