Private Company Edition: Arvelle, insitro, AbCellera and the University of Michigan have something in common – they each attracted more than $100m in venture capital investment.

Novel therapeutic strategies for Parkinson’s disease have brought a renewed sense of optimism to those researching this neurodegenerative disorder. Numerous treatment avenues are being explored, including small molecules, gene therapy, cell therapy and medical devices to stimulate nerves deep in the brain. Digital also gets a look-in, being useful for analyzing gait and other symptoms, and addressing both mental and physical issues.

Derived from Strategic Transactions, Informa’s premium source for tracking life sciences deal activity, the Venture Funding Deals column provides a comprehensive monthly review of emerging biopharmaceutical companies that have received venture funding. This month’s column covers deals announced in July and August.

The combination of the molecular diagnostic companies is structured as an acquisition of Curetis by OpGen. The merged companies will be a based in the US.