Fast start in NASH

Versant Ventures is hoping its second largest outlay as a sole investor will give the serial entrepreneurs behind Jecure Therapeutics Inc. a first-mover advantage against new NASH targets while the VC decides which model fits the company best: a structured exit, or syndication with the aim to remain independent or partner.

CEO Jeffrey Stafford and CSO James Veal, who were both part of the senior management team at Versant’s first build-to-buy company, Quanticel Pharmaceuticals Inc., will have a $20 million series A round to get them started...