Targacept
Targacept (NASD:TRGT) is an R&D pharmaceutical company formed as a spinout from RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company (NYSE: RJR) in August 2000. Targacept is involved with the development and commercialization of drugs based on selective activation of a previously unexploited class of targets - neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (NNRs). These drugs offer a new way to treat various major CNS and gastrointestinal diseases and disorders including Alzheimer's Disease, depression and ulcerative colitis. Easton participated in the financing round preceding Targacept's successful initial public offering in April 2006. Other investors in Targacept include NEA, Nomura International, Oxford Bioscience Partners, and several other venture capital firms.