// startup autopsy
Compugen
Israeli computational genomics pioneer that spent 30 years predicting drug targets and never produced a successful drug.
marketfitSilent Shutdown
Quiet closure with no public announcement · Fatal mistake: Product Failure
// the model, blind
Evaluating only Compugen’s profile at its peak — without knowing the outcome — the model ranked Unit economics as the #1 likely cause. Documented cause: No market fit.
Key Events Timeline
FOUNDING
Compugen founded as computational genomics company to predict novel drug targets using algorithms
FUNDING
Strategic partnerships established with pharma giants including AstraZeneca and Bayer for drug target validation
PRODUCT LAUNCH
Stock reaches peak value on strength of immune checkpoint inhibitor pipeline; market cap peaks around $1.5 billion
PIVOT
Multiple strategy shifts from genomics tools to drug discovery to immuno-oncology as partnerships yield disappointing results; immune checkpoint programs fail clinical trials
SHUTDOWN
Silent Shutdown: Compugen ceases operations after burning through hundreds of millions with zero approved products; stock down 95% from 2014 peak