Imaging the Invisible: Granzyme B and the Future of Immunotherapy Monitoring with Guest Dr. Ben Larimer

As a scientist, innovator, and CEO of CytoSite BioPharma, Dr. Ben Larimer has reshaped how we think about imaging immune response in cancer. His work on Granzyme B PET imaging is unlocking unprecedented insights into whether—and where—immunotherapies are working inside the body.In this episode of Fractals, Ben joins host Colin Miller to discuss:The origins of Granzyme B imaging and what makes it a uniquely powerful imaging agent.How CytoSite’s imaging agent revealed success in preclinical models—and sparked a new clinical path forward.The balance between scientific innovation and real-world biotech execution.Why PET imaging’s future depends on AI, cost reduction, and deeper diagnostic precision.Tune into Fractals: Life Science Conversations wherever you get your podcasts—and contact Bracken to learn how we help imaging agents move from molecule to market.

With more than two decades of experience at the intersection of biostatistics and biomedical imaging, Bracken Senior Partner Dr. David Raunig has been a driving force in biomarker development, validation, and regulatory strategy. From leading FDA biomarker qualification review teams to co-inventing imaging advancements and setting industry-wide standards through QIBA, David has played a pivotal role in defining how we measure—and trust—biological data in clinical trials.In this episode of Fractals: Life Science Conversations, David and host Colin Miller explore:What truly defines a biomarker—and how clinical outcome assessments differ from biological markers.Why the FDA’s "context of use" is key to biomarker qualification and how to demonstrate that a biomarker measures what it’s meant to.How the evolution of imaging—from WHO criteria to RECIST to AI-assisted reads—could transform how we assess tumor burden and therapeutic response.Statistical strategies for trial design and endpoint validation, and why QIBA’s standardized imaging protocols are essential tools for trial sponsors.Tune in to Fractals on your favorite podcast platform, and connect with Bracken to learn how David and our experts can support your clinical trial strategy from biomarker planning to regulatory approval.

In drug development, the right biomarker can mean the difference between success and a missed opportunity. In this episode of SNiPs, Bracken Senior Partner David Raunig, PhD explores how imaging biomarkers—like DXA and the fracture risk score—are being used in new ways to assess efficacy in clinical trials, especially for rare and complex diseases. David breaks down the evolving landscape of FDA qualification, highlighting a flexible path that allows sponsors to leverage novel endpoints without requiring tens of thousands of patients. From muscle mass in aging populations to trial-specific biomarker strategies, he shares valuable insight into what’s possible today—and what’s coming next.

Scientist, entrepreneur, and investor—three small words to describe the way Hatch BioFund Managing Partner Dr. Lorenzo Pellegrini has devoted his career to translating the cutting-edge into impactful solutions. From founding six biotech companies to driving investments in industry-shaping firms like Elevation Pharmaceuticals and Anacor, Lorenzo has consistently championed the necessity of fusion between innovation and practicality in the life sciences. In this episode of Fractals: Life Science Conversations, Lorenzo and host Colin Miller take a wide-ranging deep dive on:The rapid evolution of biotech within the last few decades, from small molecules to biologics, and its impact on drug evolution, supply, demand, and adaptation.Balancing financial success with societal impact in life sciences venture capital decisions—and why 80% of these decisions hinge not upon the science, but on the management team executing it.The role of fractional support in scaling startups and avoiding costly over-hiring mistakes.The importance of exploring global markets beyond the US to diversify pricing and reimbursement strategies.Tune in to Fractals on your preferred podcast platform, and contact Bracken to learn more about how we can support biotech companies in navigating complex M&A decisions.

What does it take to balance bold innovation with prudent decision-making in biotech? Lorenzo Pellegrini, PhD, Managing Partner at Hatch BioFund, shares his perspective and experience on the strategic choices that define success—and survival—in the industry.From securing $20M to $200M in funding, to grappling with the complexities of portfolio diversification, Lorenzo unpacks the critical factors biotech companies must consider. He discusses the nuances of resource allocation, the power of clear go-no-go decisions, and the trade-offs between focusing on a single asset or building a broader pipeline.Lorenzo’s insights on navigating the high-stakes world of biotech will apply to founders, investors, and industry professionals alike—in 5 minutes or less.Catch SNiPs on your favorite podcast platform, and connect with Bracken to explore how we can help drive your company’s M&A success.

With career highlights including the launch of Ivermectin and NuvaRing, along with expertise spanning microbiome therapeutics, M&A, regulatory affairs, and clinical and non-clinical development, it’s no surprise that Bracken Senior Partner Dr. Graham Lumsden is striving to shift our approach to healthcare. Holding a doctorate in veterinary medicine, Graham takes an integrated approach that bridges the various facets of life sciences. He advocates for preventative medicine and strategic partnerships to drive meaningful changes in the biotech and pharmaceutical industries. With years of experience, Dr. Lumsden recognizes that the future of medicine is not just about treatment—it’s about prevention, accessibility, and aligning scientific progress with market needs.In this episode of Fractals: Life Science Conversations, Graham and host Colin Miller discuss:Why accessible medicine is a smart investment for both patients and payers, shifting the cost burden from reactive to proactive care, and revolutionizing healthcare delivery.The power of strategic partnerships and mutual benefits, particularly for small biotech companies seeking to launch successful products.The innovative "Label As Driver" (LAD) approach that ensures early product development aligns with market demands and long-term goals.How go-to-market and commercialization strategies must adapt to regional differences, prioritizing each market’s unmet needs, effective communication, and connecting treatments to the right audience.Listen to Fractals: Life Science Conversations on your favorite podcast platform, and contact us today to learn more about working with Graham and Bracken’s team of expert consultants.

In the biopharmaceutical industry, groundbreaking discoveries may start in the lab—but to reach the market, they require more than just great science.In this SNiP, life sciences veteran Dr. Graham Lumsden highlights an essential yet often overlooked step: identifying unmet medical needs before developing a solution. Drawing from decades of experience, Graham shares the value and necessity of a market-first approach, where science and business strategy align to drive commercial success. Especially relevant for researchers and investors seeking to bridge the gap between discovery and market adoption, Graham discusses the importance of anticipating customer needs and ensuring a clear path to profitability—a critical foundation that turns innovative research into impactful, sustainable products. Tune in for Graham’s practical approach and subscribe to Fractals today to be the first to hear the full-length conversation!

One could describe Mary Costello as a world-class expert in international marketing, business initiatives, and leadership, with a background in patient advocacy, global marketing initiatives, and clinical trial solutions—and one would be correct. Her impressive career includes roles such as Head of Site and Investigator Network at Medable, Vice President of Clinic Development & Patient Advocacy at Elligo Health Research, and Vice President/Global Director of Marketing at leading life science organizations like eClinical Solutions, Fisher Clinical Services, and Covance.But Mary is not just an accomplished leader; she’s also a skilled question-asker, with the unique ability to construct innovative solutions from complex subjects. Join Mary and host Colin Miller on a question-and-answer filled episode of Fractals, where they hypothesize about connectivity in today’s life sciences industry, including, but certainly not limited to: The evolution of patient recruitment and the two key factors driving change: the accessibility of data-driven decisions and the rise of digital healthcare.Our early understanding of how AI can bridge essential gaps in clinical and marketing areas by automating mundane tasks that enhance patient engagement, such as delivering marketing messages, building trust, and prompting action.The limitations of the "one-and-done" model in patient care, emphasizing the need for flexibility and connectivity in inclusive, accessible treatment to achieve sustainable success.The foundational role of pre-competitive collaboration and widespread education in advancing life sciences and improving human lives. Listen to Fractals: Life Science Conversations via your preferred podcast service, and contact us today to learn more.

When launching a product or service, it all comes down to one essential question: what problem are you really trying to solve?In this SNiP, global marketing strategist and life science industry expert Mary Costello breaks down the essential steps to uncovering the root causes of a company’s marketing challenges. From the importance of understanding buyer behavior to the consequences of burning through time and money without validating demand, Mary shares the realities of marketing that every life science startup, large-scale company, and clinical research organization must face.With practical advice on avoiding costly mistakes and insight into aligning your strategy with customer needs, Mary’s approach is as actionable as it is insightful—and she delivers it in under 8 minutes.Tune in now, and subscribe to Fractals to be the first to hear Mary’s upcoming full-length episode.

With expertise in pharmacology, due diligence, strategic planning, peptide-based therapeutics, and beyond, it’s no wonder that Bracken co-founder and Managing Partner Dr. Jim Gilligan is also leading the way in therapeutic psychedelic drug development. With 35+ years of expertise, Jim’s cutting-edge work is reshaping our approach to mental health and chronic pain management. This integrated approach combines clinical insight with scientific innovation, turning psychedelic research into practical, impactful treatments.In this episode of Fractals, join Jim and host Colin Miller as they explore:The groundbreaking science behind psilocybin-assisted therapy and its potential to revolutionize mental health and chronic pain treatment.The essential role of clinical trials in validating psychedelic drugs, and insights into navigating the complex regulatory landscape.Strategies for biotech startups to attract investors, blending robust clinical data with a compelling commercial strategy.How investing in the future of science means supporting areas with high clinical impact, sustainable healthcare solutions, transformative research, and the growth of young scientists.Listen to Fractals: Life Science Conversations via your preferred podcast service, and contact us today to learn more about working with Jim and Bracken’s team of expert consultants.