Latest news with #Vokes
Associated Press
24-06-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
GeoVax Comments on FDA Approval of Keytruda(R) in Head and Neck Cancer, Underscoring Potential for Gedeptin(R) Combination Therapy
Supports Advancement of GeoVax's Phase 2 Gedeptin(R) Trial in Recurrent Head and Neck Cancer ATLANTA, GA - June 24, 2025 ( NEWMEDIAWIRE ) - GeoVax Labs, Inc. (Nasdaq: GOVX), a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing multi-antigen vaccines and immunotherapies for infectious diseases and cancer, today commented on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's recent approval of Keytruda(R) (pembrolizumab) for use in resectable, locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) tumors expressing PD-L1 as determined by an FDA approved test. This regulatory milestone marks a significant advancement in the curative-intent treatment landscape for head and neck cancer and affirms the therapeutic strategy underlying GeoVax's Gedeptin(R) development program. An editorial by Rosenberg and Vokes in New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) noted that the study forming the basis of FDA's approval represents the first demonstration of benefit for PD-1 inhibition in the curative setting for HNSCC, with implications for evolving neoadjuvant immunotherapy paradigms. GeoVax is planning to initiate a Phase 2 clinical trial of Gedeptin(R) in combination with a checkpoint inhibitor, such as pembrolizumab, in patients with locally advanced HNSCC scheduled for curative-intent surgery. The trial aims to improve tumor clearance and reduce relapse by combining the immune-priming effect of Gedeptin's targeted cytotoxicity with the systemic immune activation of checkpoint inhibition. The Phase 2 study, expected to launch in 2026, will evaluate pathologic response, recurrence rates, and biomarker-defined immunologic changes when Gedeptin is used as neoadjuvant therapy with checkpoint inhibitors. Importantly, the NEJM editorial emphasized the need to optimize patient selection and treatment duration in the immunotherapy era, aligning with GeoVax's biomarker-driven approach. 'The NEJM publication and FDA approval of Keytruda in resectable HNSCC signals a new era in curative-intent cancer therapy,' said David Dodd, Chairman and CEO of GeoVax. 'By combining Gedeptin therapy with pembrolizumab, we aim to enhance local tumor eradication while unlocking systemic anti-tumor immunity, potentially reducing both local and distant recurrence.' 'We believe Gedeptin's tumor-targeted cytotoxicity can enhance immunotherapy efficacy, particularly in the perioperative window where anti-tumor immunity can be primed,' added Dr. Kelly McKee, GeoVax's Chief Medical Officer. 'We are excited to embark on the next phase of Gedeptin development as we attempt to build on the important advances being made in this disease.' For more information about the KEYNOTE-689 study, see the June 18, 2025 publication in the New England Journal of Medicine. About Gedeptin Gedeptin(R) is a gene-directed enzyme prodrug therapy (GDEPT) delivered intratumorally via an adenoviral vector encoding purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNP). Upon systemic administration of fludarabine, the enzyme catalyzes the generation of a cytotoxic agent selectively within the tumor microenvironment. This mechanism provides dual cytotoxicity and immune modulation with minimal systemic exposure. Gedeptin has been granted Orphan Drug Designation by the FDA for the treatment of oral and pharyngeal cancers and is protected by a growing intellectual property portfolio. GeoVax's ongoing innovation in immune-sensitizing therapies supports a broader strategy to complement checkpoint inhibitors and overcome tumor immune resistance across solid tumor types. About GeoVax GeoVax Labs, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel vaccines against infectious diseases and therapies for solid tumor cancers. The Company's lead clinical program is GEO-CM04S1, a next-generation COVID-19 vaccine currently in three Phase 2 clinical trials, being evaluated as (1) a primary vaccine for immunocompromised patients such as those suffering from hematologic cancers and other patient populations for whom the current authorized COVID-19 vaccines are insufficient, (2) a booster vaccine in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and (3) a more robust, durable COVID-19 booster among healthy patients who previously received the mRNA vaccines. In oncology the lead clinical program is evaluating a novel oncolytic solid tumor gene-directed therapy, Gedeptin(R), having recently completed a multicenter Phase 1/2 clinical trial for advanced head and neck cancers. GeoVax is also developing a vaccine targeting Mpox and smallpox and, based on recent regulatory guidance, anticipates progressing directly to a Phase 3 clinical evaluation, omitting Phase 1 and Phase 2 trials. GeoVax has a strong IP portfolio in support of its technologies and product candidates, holding worldwide rights for its technologies and products. For more information about the current status of our clinical trials and other updates, visit our website: Forward-Looking Statements This release contains forward-looking statements regarding GeoVax's business plans. The words 'believe,' 'look forward to,' 'may,' 'estimate,' 'continue,' 'anticipate,' 'intend,' 'should,' 'plan,' 'could,' 'target,' 'potential,' 'is likely,' 'will,' 'expect' and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Actual results may differ materially from those included in these statements due to a variety of factors, including whether: GeoVax is able to obtain acceptable results from ongoing or future clinical trials of its investigational products, GeoVax's immuno-oncology products and preventative vaccines can provoke the desired responses, and those products or vaccines can be used effectively, GeoVax's viral vector technology adequately amplifies immune responses to cancer antigens, GeoVax can develop and manufacture its immuno-oncology products and preventative vaccines with the desired characteristics in a timely manner, GeoVax's immuno-oncology products and preventative vaccines will be safe for human use, GeoVax's vaccines will effectively prevent targeted infections in humans, GeoVax's immuno-oncology products and preventative vaccines will receive regulatory approvals necessary to be licensed and marketed, GeoVax raises required capital to complete development, there is development of competitive products that may be more effective or easier to use than GeoVax's products, GeoVax will be able to enter into favorable manufacturing and distribution agreements, and other factors, over which GeoVax has no control. Further information on our risk factors is contained in our periodic reports on Form 10-Q and Form 10-K that we have filed and will file with the SEC. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law. Company Contact: [email protected] 678-384-7220 Investor Relations Contact: [email protected] 212-698-8696 Media Contact: Jessica Starman [email protected]
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
'I'm truly gutted' - Sam Vokes on leaving Wycombe Wanderers
Wycombe Wanderers striker Sam Vokes has revealed he is 'gutted' to be leaving the club this summer. The 35-year-old was informed on May 20 that his contract with the Adams Park side would not be renewed, making him a free agent come June 30. He joined the Chairboys in the summer of 2021 from Stoke City and scored 30 goals in 144 games. However, he was limited to just nine outings in all competitions this season after suffering an injury in August. Following his recovery in February, he would only play four more times. His final appearance in the light and dark blue quarters saw Vokes come on as an 83rd-minute substitute for Luke Leahy in the club's 3-1 home defeat against Stockport County on May 3. However, he was taken off just seconds later after sustaining a broken arm, which was later operated on. In a statement released via his agent, the ex-Wales international said: 'After finding out this morning [May 20] I'll be leaving this special club after four years, I can only say I'm truly gutted. 'I'd always heard about the great culture and good people at the club, so to be brought in by Gareth Ainsworth and to be part of that group and getting to know the players and staff has been an absolute pleasure. 'While we've come very close a few times (narrowly missing out in the recent play-offs), it's amazing to create and be part of some truly special moments.' The fan favourite mentioned how he had numerous 'fond memories' which have been created since 2021, with one being the 2022 play-off semi-final first leg 2-0 victory against Milton Keynes at Adams Park. The forward scored Wycombe's second goal with a trademark header from a Garath McCleary cross, with his strike effectively securing the Chairboys' place in that year's final, which they lost to Sunderland. In his message, he thanked the support shown by the club's fans, as well as his previous managers in Ainsworth and Matt Bloomfield, and current head coach, Mike Dodds. Vokes, earlier this year, acted as an interim coach behind Sam Grace following Bloomfield's departure to Luton Town. He added: "I'm disappointed not to have been able to chip in a bit more on the pitch this year. 'I picked up an injury in the first half of the season and then broke my arm a few weeks ago against Stockport, which is frustrating when I know I still have more to offer on the pitch. 'However, the injuries have allowed me to help the club in another capacity from the dugout, with Sam Grace as interim and now Mike Dodds. 'That's been an honour and a huge and important learning curve.' He concluded: 'I know this club has changed a lot over my four years, but I hope that the culture, work ethic and core values remain and I wish the club every success going forward.'
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Marengo Appoints Dr. Everett Vokes to the Scientific Advisory Board While Advancing Invikafusp alfa Clinical Program in PD-1 Resistant Solid Tumors
Appointment supports continued momentum of the company's rapidly accelerating precision oncology development strategy CAMBRIDGE, Mass., May 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Marengo Therapeutics, Inc., a clinical-stage biotechnology company pioneering novel approaches to precision T cell activation, today announced the appointment of Everett E. Vokes, M.D., to its Scientific Advisory Board (SAB). This appointment marks the latest expansion of Marengo's industry-leading SAB, comprised of world-class experts in clinical and translational oncology and immunology. With more than 40 years of clinical and translational research experience, Dr. Vokes is internationally recognized for his expertise in the treatment of head and neck and lung cancers. He is the John E. Ultmann Distinguished Service Professor of Medicine, Professor of Radiation and Cellular Oncology, and Chair of the Department of Medicine at the University of Chicago. Dr. Vokes currently serves as Physician-in-Chief for the UChicago Medicine health system, and served as the 2021-2022 President of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). "We are honored to welcome Dr. Vokes to our esteemed team of scientific advisors guiding the development of Marengo's innovative oncology pipeline," said Zhen Su, M.D., M.B.A., Chief Executive Officer of Marengo Therapeutics. "Following our recent data presented at AACR showing pan-tumor activity of Invikafusp alfa in multiple solid tumors that are resistant to PD-1 treatment, Dr. Vokes' deep expertise and leadership in the landscape of clinical cancer research, specifically in thoracic oncology, will be instrumental in shaping our development strategy. His insight will not only help advance invikafusp as a next generation pan-tumor IO backbone but will also provide broader guidance as we progress our expanding pipeline." A long-standing leader in cooperative group research, Dr. Vokes chaired the CALGB (now part of the Alliance) Respiratory Committee and has served as principal investigator on numerous NCI-funded trials. He is the recipient of numerous honors, including the Translational Research Professorship from ASCO and the "Giant of Cancer Care" award in 2013. Dr. Vokes has published more than 450 scientific papers and 80 book chapters and has served on editorial boards for leading oncology journals including Journal of Clinical Oncology, Annals of Oncology, and Clinical Lung Cancer. "Marengo's approach to precision T cell activation represents a key scientific advancement with broad implications across different solid tumors that are treatment resistant to PD-1," Dr. Vokes said. "The early signs of activity in MSS CRC and PD-1 negative NSCLC – the populations historically resistant to immune checkpoint blockade — suggest a novel mechanism of action with the potential to overcome PD-1 resistance, which remains a very high unmet medical need. I'm honored to join this distinguished group of advisors and contribute to the clinical development of Marengo's pipeline as the team works to expand the impact of immunotherapy across difficult-to-treat cancers." About Marengo Therapeuticseve Marengo Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing a first-in-class pipeline of novel TCR-targeting antibodies designed to selectively modulate disease-driving and protective T cell subsets. With its proprietary STAR™, TriSTAR™, and MSTAR™ platforms, Marengo is advancing precision immunotherapies that harness the body's T cell repertoire to provide durable responses against cancer and autoimmune diseases. Learn more at Media Contact:Peg Rusconi | Investor Contact:Svetlana Makhni | smakhni@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Marengo Therapeutics Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Telegraph
03-05-2025
- Business
- Telegraph
Wealthy Americans are fleeing Trump's chaos – and Britain's cashing in
Threats to the car industry, jobs lost and rising taxes – Donald Trump's chaotic first 100 days in office have hardly sparked cheerful headlines in Britain. However, one unexpected silver lining is emerging that could reverse a historical trend that has persisted since the Second World War. For decades, Britain's richest and most skilled have been lured to the US by high wages, prestigious institutions and the chance to do business in the world's biggest economy. But now Americans are nervously eyeing the exit amid growing concerns over their wealth, research funding and general uncertainty related to the Trump administration's policies. The UK is among the countries most likely to gain from America's loss, presenting a chance to boost the economy by mopping up disgruntled world-class scientists, investors and students who had been destined for Ivy League universities. Lawyers for the ultra-wealthy say they have been inundated with a deluge of inquiries from US clients since Trump's inauguration. 'The number of inquiries that come into our US team based in London has gone through the roof over the last three, four, five months,' says Ceri Vokes, a tax partner at Withers, a City law firm. 'There is definitely a desire to diversify away from the US. London is a natural place for them to come to because of the common language and similar culture.' Inquiries from US clients considering relocating to the UK have been three times higher so far in 2025 than the same period in previous years, according to Vokes. Trump effect Trump's trade war has triggered trillion-dollar stock market fluctuations and thrown the dollar's safe-haven status into question. The wealthiest are taking precautions so they can get out fast if the chaos escalates, Vokes says. 'We're seeing an increasing number of US clients looking to buy property here to have a foot in another jurisdiction and somewhere that they could move to,' she says. Kelvin Tanner, an immigration partner at City firm Charles Russell Speechlys, says inquiries from US millionaires and billionaires so far in 2025 have doubled from previous years. 'I'm dealing with more Americans moving than over the last few years or when President Trump was last in office. There was an increase following last year's election. This then accelerated after the first few months of Trump being in office,' he adds. 'We've had people that have a high profile and wanted to make sure they were set up in the UK, almost as a kind of insurance policy. We're seeing a range of backgrounds – people who work in the technology sector, financial services and so on.' There are several early signs of a rapid rise in Americans looking to the UK after the US election. Citizen applications from US nationals jumped 40pc to 1,700 in the final three months of last year compared with the same period in 2023. According to Knight Frank, the estate agency, the share of Americans purchasing luxury property in central London rose to 11.6pc at the end of 2024, making them the largest nationality and overtaking Chinese buyers. If more Americans take the plunge, it could very helpful indeed for beleaguered Chancellor Rachel Reeves, whose tax changes have prompted a string of high-profile UK exits. They include Richard Gnodde, Goldman Sachs' most senior banker outside the US, and Nassef Sawiris, Egypt's richest man. Renewed interest from Americans is helping to plug a gap left by the flight of non-doms, says Rosy Khalastchy, of luxury estate agents Beauchamp Estates. '[Some] people are leaving but there is a transition period going on. There are still people who value London and the services that are here, and there is turmoil in their country. We are seeing more Americans coming in,' she says. 'Horrendously stupid' attack While the wealthiest will be the most mobile, research suggests other strata of American society are also feeling increasingly uneasy under Trump. Figures from Study Portal suggest US interest in British degrees jumped 25pc in March compared with the same month a year earlier. Meanwhile, a survey of 600 US academics by scientific journal Nature found three in four were considering their future in the country, with many weighing up moves to Canada or the UK. It comes after the president has made an enemy of America's most highly regarded academic institutions, freezing federal funding for several top universities. He also threatened Harvard with restricting its ability to enrol foreign students and further funding cuts, demanding a ban on diversity, equity and inclusion practices and a crackdown on protests. 'A grant is at our discretion and [Harvard] are really not behaving well. So it's too bad,' Trump warned on Wednesday. Mass lay-offs and sweeping cuts to scientific research at top universities have also prompted warnings from academics that the president risks causing economic damage equivalent to a major recession. The UK would be in a unique position to benefit from a reverse US brain drain because of the shared language and prestigious universities, says Christian Dustmann, an economics professor at University College London. 'It is suicidal what the Trump administration is doing with one of their very biggest assets, and that is the excellence of research and the universities,' he says. 'To attack that in the way they are doing is just horrendously stupid. If those talents are moving away towards, for instance, the UK, this is a huge opportunity for us.' The competition for these scientists and researchers is already heating up, with countries across Europe quickly rolling out the red carpet in the form of top talent visas and recruitment funds for universities. An influx of top academics and a surge in interest from students looking for alternatives to Ivy League universities could help boost Britain's higher education sector and the wider economy, says Jamie Arrowsmith, from Universities UK International. But the cash-strapped sector may struggle to accommodate it amid redundancy drives and speculation that a crackdown on overseas student visas looms, he warns. 'If leading research talent wants to choose the UK, then we should absolutely welcome that. It will make a positive contribution to higher education, to the UK's research base and ultimately growth and prosperity,' Arrowsmith says. 'The big challenge we have to be completely honest is that the UK is not without its own challenges and uncertainties. Prospective students and potential researchers want certainty and stability.' Another difficulty, immigration lawyers warn, is that even very wealthy Americans may find it tricky to get a visa if they are business owners or investors, as opposed to workers. It is still too early to say how big and persistent a US brain drain will be. But America's misery may offer a golden opportunity to stagnating Britain – if Reeves chooses to seize it.
NZ Herald
02-05-2025
- Business
- NZ Herald
Northland youth to gain from new financial education in schools
'Young people are fairly uneducated in terms of finance, insurance, KiwiSaver, and how mortgages work, and how to plan to minimise the cost of a mortgage over a period of time.' Vokes said while the financial landscape these days was 'no different from when I was starting out' regarding low wages versus high cost of living, there was now more pressure to buy. 'There's now financing cars and Afterpay... all those things that satisfy people in the first instance, but end up costing them a lot more. 'It's no wonder people are getting into trouble.' The new curriculum includes learning investment and finance skills, and how to spot a scam. Younger students will learn how to identify needs versus wants, along with bank accounts, earning, spending, and saving. Older students will learn topics such as budgeting, investment, interest, taxes, and insurance. Vokes said the Government initiative was 'a great idea'. 'At that stage, they can go over it quite simply ... borrowing money, compound interest, and saving for retirement. 'It gives them a good start and a familiarity with terms.' However, Opua School principal Sandy Blackburn said financial literacy in schools has 'already been covered for many years'. 'I don't see a lot of difference to what we've done already. 'It's already well taught. 'In schools I've been involved with in the past, financial literacy has covered everything outlined, from budgeting and interest.' Blackburn said what the Government has done is mandate financial literacy, as not all schools would have taught it. 'It does give clarity of what the expectation is.' The policy announcement comes as new ASB research shows that despite tough economic circumstances, many New Zealanders aged 18-24 were building better money habits and taking action to improve their financial wellbeing. ASB business transformation and customer engagement general manager Rosalyn Clarke said young Kiwis were 'facing a financial double whammy, as high youth unemployment adds to cost of living pressures'. Of the 57,000 customers aged 18-24 surveyed, 56% didn't have at least $1000 of savings, and 60% rarely had enough money to cover their monthly bills, with 44% living paycheque to paycheque. But Clarke said 43% had taken steps to 'build better spending, savings, or credit habits in the past year'. 'By making changes such as reducing their overdraft, setting up regular savings, or getting KiwiSaver advice, we can see their financial wellbeing improves compared to those in their age group who don't.'
