In Q4 2014 start-ups raised $1.5 billion, a new record. Several companies penned alliances with tech transfer entities; eight start-ups were acquired.

Defymed Inc.’s MAILPAN (MAcro-encapsulation of PANcreatic Islets) is a bioartificial pancreas that can use a broader pool of cell types while protecting the cells from rejection by the immune system.

Derived from Strategic Transactions, a premium source for tracking life sciences deal activity, the Tech Transfer Deals column provides a monthly review of licensing agreements between companies and universities or other research institutions in the In Vitro Diagnostics, Medical Device, and Pharmaceutical sectors. This month’s column covers deals announced September through October 2014.