NanoString Technologies, a provider of life science tools for translational research and developer of molecular diagnostic products, has completed a $15.3 million Series E Preferred Stock issuance. New investors in the transaction included Morgan Stanley Expansion Capital and AllianceBernstein Alternative Investment Management Group. All previous venture investors participated including Clarus Ventures, Draper Fisher Jurvetson, OVP Venture Partners, GE healthymagination Fund, BioMed Ventures, and Henri Termeer.

NXT Capital’s venture finance group has provided financing to support Clinipace Worldwide’s acquisition of Paragon Biomedical. Digital contract research organization Clinipace is headquartered in Morrisville, North Carolina and is backed by Morgan Stanley Expansion Capital, Hatteras Venture Partners, Brooke Private Equity, Osage Venture Partners and Mario Family Partners.

Clinipace Worldwide, a digital clinical research organization, has raised $15 million in Series C financing. Morgan Stanley Expansion Capital led the round, which included participation from Durham, N.C.-based Hatteras Venture Partners, and Boston-based Brook Private Equity Advisors. The company will use the money to expand its contract research services. The company is based in Research Triangle Park, N.C.

Socialware, the Austin, Texas-based social media management firm, has netted a $7 million Series C from Morgan Stanley Expansion Capital. The company, led by Chad Bockius, has taken about $12 million from investors including Silverton Partners, Floodgate Fund and G-51 Capital.