Metagenomix, Inc. sought to develop molecular biology and screening methods to screen metabolites of the high proportion of bacteria which cannot be cultured in the laboratory for pharmacological activity. The initial thrust of the research was to look for compounds which induce apoptosis in cancer cells but other applications were under consideration. The underlying science was developed in Dr. Michael Snyder’s lab at Yale University, and the company was co-founded by Elm Street Ventures’ partners Greg Gardiner and Mike Sherman.  Failing to meet milestones, and with the passing of Dr. Gardiner, the company was closed in late 2011.  Co-investors included Connecticut Innovations. Elm Street was represented on the board by Greg Gardiner, Mike Sherman, and Rob Bettigole (as an observer).