Chicago's Nine Pioneering Biotech Firms Shaping the Local Life Sciences Landscape
In the bustling city of Chicago, the biotech industry is experiencing a significant growth spurt. Several companies are making strides in various areas of research and development, contributing to the vibrant local ecosystem.
One such company is Medexus Pharma USA, founded in 2012. They have recently developed a novel methotrexate drug delivery system, promising to revolutionise treatment for autoimmune diseases, cancer, and other near-market opportunities.
Another notable player in the field is Emalex Biosciences, established in 2018. Specialising in neurological drug development, Emalex Biosciences' first development candidate, Ecopipam, is currently being evaluated for the treatment of Tourette Syndrome and childhood onset fluency disorder (Stuttering).
The realm of neuroscience is also being explored by Icometrix, a company that was founded in 2011. They have developed software that obtains clinically meaningful data from brain MRI and CT scans, providing valuable insights into neurological conditions.
MAIA Biotechnology, established in 2018, is another Chicago-based company making waves in the oncology sector. Their focus is on the development of first-in-class drugs, and their pipeline includes potential treatments for prostate cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, and ovarian cancer.
In the field of cardiovascular care and research, Prolaio stands out. Founded in 2022, Prolaio aims to simplify data collection, interpretation, and action by using ECG patches, blood pressure monitors, and smartwatches to track patients between clinic visits.
Chicago's biotech R&D sector has seen an influx of companies in recent years. Skye Bioscience, focusing on obesity and metabolic disorders, and Vetter Pharma, which is building a new clinical production site near Chicago in Des Plaines, are just a few examples. Nanomics Biotech, with a focus on proteomics technologies, also has a connection to Chicago through its founder's academic background and collaborations.
In 2025, Prolaio was acquired by cardiovascular drug development company Kardigan Bio, further strengthening Chicago's biotech sector. These companies, each with their unique focus and innovations, are contributing to Chicago's growing reputation as a hub for biotech research and development.
