Latest news with #cancerimmunotherapy
Yahoo
14-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Invenra Welcomes Dr. Alan J. Korman to Its Scientific Advisory Board
MADISON, Wis., July 14, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Invenra, a biotechnology company specializing in next-generation multispecific antibody discovery and development, is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Alan J. Korman, PhD, FAIO, to its Scientific Advisory Board (SAB). Dr. Korman brings a wealth of experience in immuno-oncology, having played a pivotal role in the development of groundbreaking cancer immunotherapies. Dr. Korman is currently CSO and a member of the Board of Directors of Bluesphere Bio, a clinical stage biotech company in Pittsburgh, PA. Most recently, he served as Senior Vice President of Human Immunology at Vir Biotechnology. Prior to that, he served as Vice President for Immuno-Oncology Discovery at Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMS), where he led the development of biologics for tumor immunotherapy. During his tenure at BMS and Medarex, Dr. Korman contributed to the development of three approved oncology drugs: ipilimumab (anti-CTLA-4), nivolumab (anti-PD-1), and relatlimab (anti-LAG-3), as well as their combination, pioneering the use of immune checkpoint blockade in cancer therapy. Dr. Korman earned his PhD in Cellular and Developmental Biology from Harvard University and was a Whitehead Fellow at the Whitehead Institute at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He also served as a staff scientist at the Institut Pasteur before transitioning to the biotechnology sector. In addition to his new role on Invenra's SAB, Dr. Korman is also the founder of Spice Biotechnologies, a company focused on developing next-generation checkpoint therapeutics. "We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Korman to our Scientific Advisory Board," said Dr. Roland Green, Co-Founder, CEO, and Chairman of Invenra. "His extensive experience in developing transformative immunotherapies aligns perfectly with Invenra's mission to collaborate with and support biotech and pharmaceutical companies of all sizes globally. We look forward to his valuable insights and contributions as we continue to empower our partners to advance innovative therapeutics." Dr. Korman joins SAB members Dr. Paul Sondel and Dr. Jonathan Davis, whose knowledge and guidance have supported Invenra's research and development. Dr. Paul Sondel, MD, PhD, is the Reed and Carolee Walker Professor in Pediatric Oncology at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. With a distinguished career in cancer immunotherapy, Dr. Sondel has led lab, translational, and clinical research within the UW Carbone Cancer Center. His work has significantly advanced the understanding and application of immunotherapeutic strategies, including the development of FDA-approved treatments for high-risk neuroblastoma. Dr. Jonathan Davis, PhD, brings over 20 years of experience in the life sciences industry, focusing on protein and antibody engineering, as well as bispecific and multispecific antibody platform development. Prior to joining the Invenra SAB, Dr. Davis was Vice President of Innovation and Strategy for Invenra where he focused on optimization of the B-Body Platform, the development of antibody libraries, and refinements to screening methodology and throughput. Prior to Invenra, he was a Principal Scientist at Bristol-Myers Squibb, where he contributed to biologic drug design, including the development of a trispecific HIV biotherapeutic. Prior to that, he worked at EMD Serono, where he developed a variety of novel biologic drug platforms. "The collective expertise of Drs. Korman, Sondel, and Davis positions Invenra as a key collaborator and service provider, driving the discovery and development of multispecific antibody-based therapeutics in partnership with biotech and pharmaceutical companies worldwide," added Dr. Green. "Their combined knowledge and experience will be invaluable as we continue to support our partners in bringing novel treatments to patients in need." For more information about Invenra and its Scientific Advisory Board, please visit About Invenra Invenra Inc. is a biotechnology company specializing in next-generation multispecific antibody discovery and development. Its proprietary B-Body® platform enables the rapid generation of highly developable bispecifics and now supports both Rapid Bispecific Discovery Services—delivering lead panels in as little as four months—and B-Body Express™, which quickly produces high-quality bispecifics from partner-provided sequences. Invenra's newly launched T-Body™ platform expands these capabilities for efficient expression, correct chain pairing, and robust assembly of trispecific constructs. Invenra partners globally with pharmaceutical and biotech companies to accelerate therapeutic antibody programs from discovery through preclinical development. View source version on Contacts Invenra Inc.5510 Element Way, Suite 400Madison, WI 53719Phone: 608.441.8319Email: info@ 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
Malay Mail
12-06-2025
- Business
- Malay Mail
PolyU startups showcase innovation and entrepreneurial achievements at London Tech Week 2025
PolyU participated in the world-renowned London Tech Week 2025 held from 9 to 11 June in London, UK. Group photo of Prof. Christopher Chao, PolyU Vice President (Research and Innovation) (front row, 5th from right), PolyU delegation and Ms Daisy IP, Head of Investment Promotion of InvestHK London (front row, 2nd from right). PolyU Startup Founder(s) Introduction Advantage Data Vision Limited Prof. Lawrence Wing Chi CHAN Associate Professor, Department of Health Technology and Informatics; and Director, Advantage Data Vision Limited The startup has leveraged massive real‑world, multi‑omics datasets and patented AI algorithms to create a cloud‑based platform that accurately predicts patients' response to cancer immunotherapy. The deep‑learning engine guides clinicians, optimises hospital resources, reduces adverse events and accelerates pharmaceutical trials through precise patient stratification and risk assessment, delivering tangible value worldwide. Light-weight Technologies Limited Prof. Jianguo LIN Chair Professor of Materials Technologies, Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering; and Co-founder and Chairman, Light-weight Technologies Limited Dr Qingsong WENG Research Associate, Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering; and Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, Light-weight Technologies Limited The startup uses their globally unique light alloy manufacturing technologies, such as advanced hot stamping and extrusion techniques, with its self-developed smart industrial software and advanced simulation platform to produce ultra-thin, ultra-wide light alloy profiles and complex curved profiles that are unattainable with existing manufacturing processes. The startup provides high-strength, lightweight, cost-effective, and sustainable solutions that enable energy saving and emission reduction for the automotive, aerospace, railway, marine, and other engineering sectors, gaining wide recognition from leading global OEMs. UbiquiTech Innovations Limited Prof. Jiannong CAO Dean, Graduate School; Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Professor in Data Science; Chair Professor of Distributed and Mobile Computing; Director, Research Institute for Artificial Intelligence of Things; Director, University Research Facility in Big Data Analytics; and Co-founder and Chief Scientist, UbiquiTech Innovations Limited Dr Zhixuan LIANG PolyU GBA Postdoctoral Fellow; and Chief Executive Officer, UbiquiTech Innovations Limited The startup is committed to the intersection of robotics, AI and smart city solutions, with a view to developing cutting-edge autonomous robots designed to address complex challenges in modern urban and industrial environments. viAct Mr Gary Chun-kui NG Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, viAct Mr Hugo CHEUK Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer, viAct viAct is a pioneer in AI monitoring technology dedicated to enhancing safety and efficiency in heavy industries such as construction, oil and gas, and manufacturing. The startup made it onto Forbes Asia 100 to Watch list in 2022. Its leading, globally deployed technology "Scenario-based Vision Intelligence", was showcased at renowned international events such as the World Economic Forum. HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 12 June 2025 - The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) took part in the world-renowned London Tech Week 2025 held from 9 to 11 June in London, UK, as the only participating university from Hong Kong. Four PolyU startups showcased their ground-breaking innovations in artificial intelligence (AI), advanced manufacturing technologies and healthcare solutions. The event attracted business leaders, industry experts and investors from around the world, providing the PolyU startups with valuable opportunities to explore potential collaborations and establish is committed to translating cutting-edge research into impactful solutions that address real-world challenges. Below are introductions to the four PolyU the event's panel discussion themed "Creating the Future from Campus: Why are University Spinouts so Important for Innovation?",, shared his insights into knowledge transfer, the nurturing of university spinouts, and the support and resources available to PolyU startups. Prof. Chao remarked, "Supported by PolyU's signature startup ecosystem,, our startups are spearheading translational innovations that generate long-lasting global societal impact. Our ecosystem not only provides invaluable development opportunities but also fosters the international growth of our entrepreneurs. I am delighted to see PolyU startups shine at London Tech Week, inspiring global audiences with their creativity and determination to make a difference."This year, the London Tech Week attracted over 45,000 participants from more than 90 countries, including startups, technology giants, investors and innovators. The event provided a platform for startups to engage in person with venture capitalists, corporate investors and angel investors; promote their solutions on dedicated stages; connect with industry leaders at the forefront of innovation; and gain valuable insights from successful entrepreneurs who have expanded globally. For more information, please visit the event website Hashtag: #PolyU The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
BioInvent Announces Promising Phase 1 Data of BI-1206 in Combination with KEYTRUDA(R) (pembrolizumab) in Solid Tumors
The Phase 1 dose escalation has been completed, and results show encouraging early signs of clinical activity in solid tumors with one complete response, one long-lasting partial response, and 11 patients with stable disease. Based on this promising data, BioInvent plans to initiate Phase 2a expansion cohorts to treat patients with advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) or uveal melanoma, in the front line in combination with KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab). Patient enrollment is expected to begin H2 2025. LUND, SE / / June 11, 2025 / BioInvent International AB ("BioInvent") (Nasdaq Stockholm: BINV), a biotech company focused on the discovery and development of novel and first-in-class immune-modulatory antibodies for cancer immunotherapy, today announced updated, positive Phase 1 data of intravenous (IV) and subcutaneous (SC) BI-1206 in combination with MSD's (Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA) anti-PD-1 therapy KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) in heavily pre-treated patients with solid tumors. Based on the encouraging data, the company intends to expand its investigation of BI-1206 SC in combination with pembrolizumab in earlier lines of treatment, by initiating a Phase 2a study arm with focus on first-line patients with advanced or metastatic NSCLC and uveal melanoma. The Phase 2a study is planned to be initiated during H2 2025. The updated Phase 1 data in heavily pre-treated patients - including several lines of IO agents - show encouraging clinical activity of the combination, with one patient with metastatic cutaneous melanoma experiencing a complete response (CR), one patient with metastatic uveal melanoma achieving a long-lasting partial response (PR) and 11 patients experiencing stable disease (SD) out of a total of 36 evaluable patients. The product was well-tolerated, enabling continued dose expansion exploring the use of higher dose levels. The trial is part of BioInvent's strategy to transition from IV dosing to SC formulation for BI-1206 allowing slower systemic entry and prolonged time on target to enhance the products therapeutic impact and improve safety and tolerability of the combination. The Phase 1 data in solid tumors corroborate preclinical findings that BI-1206 significantly enhances the effect of anti-PD-1. Based on this evidence, MSD and BioInvent have agreed to further investigate the synergies between BI-1206 and pembrolizumab in earlier lines of treatment. The upcoming Phase 2a study of BI-1206 in combination with pembrolizumab is planned to be performed in treatment-naïve patients with NSCLC and uveal melanoma. "We are highly encouraged by the clinical responses emerging from our solid tumor program which support the broad utility of combining subcutaneous BI-1206 with pembrolizumab in a range of solid tumors," said Martin Welschof, Chief Executive Officer of BioInvent. "The strong signals we have observed in heavily pre-treated patients support the idea that BI-1206 could be used to improve the activity of pembrolizumab across different tumor types, and we therefore look forward to initiating our Phase 2a study in the high unmet medical need of non-small cell lung cancer." KEYTRUDA® is a registered trademark of Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC, a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA. ###About NSCLC and combination treatment with targeting FcyRIIBNSCLC is the most common type of lung cancer, accounting for about 85% of all lung cancer cases. While checkpoint inhibitors are widely accepted and can produce durable responses in NSCLC, the overall response rate remains low, rarely exceeding 25%. A common resistance mechanism in cancer is the binding and degradation of therapeutic antibodies against PD-1 such as pembrolizumab by FcγRIIB expressing immune cells. Therefore, based on preclinical and early clinical data, the company believes that resistance or lack of response to anti-PD-1 treatment may be overcome by FcγRIIB blockade in particular in subjects who have never been exposed to anti PD-1 agents. About BI-1206BI-1206 is one of BioInvent's lead drug candidates and is developed to re-establish the clinical effect of existing cancer treatments such as pembrolizumab and rituximab. The drug candidate is evaluated in two separate clinical programs, one for the treatment of solid tumors and one for the treatment of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL, a type of blood cancer). BI-1206 in solid tumorsClinical Phase 1/2a study with BI-1206 in combination with MSD's (Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA) anti-PD-1 therapy KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) in heavily pre-treated patients with solid tumors (NCT04219254) is ongoing. The concluded Phase 1 dose escalation study in heavily pre-treated patients shows encouraging clinical activity of the combination, including one CR in metastatic melanoma, one PR in uveal melanoma and 11 patients experiencing SD out of a total of 36 evaluable patients. The product was well-tolerated, enabling continued dose expansion exploring the use of higher dose levels. For further details, please refer to the ASCO 2024 poster on the company web site: Out of the patients with stable disease as best response, one patient with long-lasting metastatic melanoma, who had previously progressed on nivolumab treatment, remained a stable disease throughout the two-year study duration with BI-1206 and pembrolizumab. The planned Phase 2a study of BI-1206 in combination with pembrolizumab for treatment-naïve patients with NSCLC and uveal melanoma consists of two parts: a signal seeking phase and a dose optimization phase. In the first signal seeking phase, up to 30 NSCLC and 12 uveal melanoma patients will receive fixed doses of BI-1206 and pembrolizumab every 21 days for three treatment cycles. Patients showing clinical benefit by Week 9 can continue therapy for up to 32 additional cycles, while those with disease progression will not proceed further. About BioInventBioInvent International AB (Nasdaq Stockholm: BINV) is a clinical-stage biotech company that discovers and develops novel and first-in-class immuno-modulatory antibodies for cancer therapy, with currently five drug candidates in six ongoing clinical programs in Phase 1/2 trials for the treatment of hematological cancer and solid tumors. The Company's validated, proprietary F.I.R.S.T™ technology platform identifies both targets and the antibodies that bind to them, generating many promising new immune-modulatory candidates to fuel the Company's own clinical development pipeline and providing licensing and partnering opportunities. The Company generates revenues from research collaborations and license agreements with multiple top-tier pharmaceutical companies, as well as from producing antibodies for third parties in the Company's fully integrated manufacturing unit. More information is available at For further information, please contact:Cecilia Hofvander, VP Investor RelationsPhone: +46 (0)46 286 85 50Email: International AB (publ)Co. Reg. No.: 556537-7263Visiting address: Ideongatan 1Mailing address: 223 70 LUNDPhone: +46 (0)46 286 85 The press release contains statements about the future, consisting of subjective assumptions and forecasts for future scenarios. Predictions for the future only apply as the date they are made and are, by their very nature, in the same way as research and development work in the biotech segment, associated with risk and uncertainty. With this in mind, the actual outcome may deviate significantly from the scenarios described in this press release. Attachments BioInvent Announces Promising Phase 1 Data of BI-1206 in Combination with KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) in Solid Tumors SOURCE: BioInvent International View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire Error while retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data
Associated Press
28-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
New study led by Horizon and supported by Roche Canada delivers cancer treatment in the comfort of a patient's home
MISSISSAUGA, ON, May 28, 2025 /CNW/ - For the first time in Canada, a patient has received cancer immunotherapy by subcutaneous (under the skin) injection in their home, thanks to an innovative research initiative by Horizon Health Network (Horizon), in collaboration with Roche Canada, the New Brunswick Extra-Mural Program, and ResearchNB, and with support from Vitalité Health Network. The project originated with a research study led by Horizon medical oncologists Dr. Mahmoud Abdelsalam, Dr. Luisa Galvis and Dr. James Michael whereby New Brunswick patients diagnosed with certain types of lung cancer receive Health Canada-authorized subcutaneous cancer immunotherapy at home, administered by nurses from Medavie's New Brunswick Extra-Mural Program. The initiative was formally announced by the New Brunswick delegation during the annual BIO International Convention in June 2024 in San Diego, California, and the first treatment milestone occurred in New Brunswick this past March. 'This trial marks a turning point in lung cancer care—bringing treatment from the hospital to patients' homes, where they are most comfortable,' said Dr. Abdelsalam, who served as principal investigator of the research initiative. 'We are proud to lead this Canadian-first trial from New Brunswick, showing that innovation in health care can start right here at home, improving the quality of care for New Brunswickers.' The study was initially designed to bring care closer to communities. However, Dr. Abdelsalam challenged the team to go further — to 'close the last mile' by delivering modern cancer therapies directly to patients' homes. Previously, patients travelled to hospital-based infusion centres for intravenous cancer treatments, often spending at least 30 to 60 minutes per visit. The new subcutaneous injection reduces treatment time to about seven minutes, offering a more convenient, less invasive option that minimizes disruptions to patients' daily life, reduces the strain on health care providers, and increases capacity in the health care system. 'The reality is, if patients must leave their communities, take time off work, arrange childcare or organize transportation, it disrupts their lives significantly,' said Jennifer Sheils, Horizon's Vice-President of Strategy, Transformation and Chief Innovation Officer. 'They occupy IV therapy hospital chairs, require nursing and pharmacy resources and often face the challenge of travelling home while feeling unwell. These impacts extend beyond the treatment day and can affect their overall well-being and financial stability.' As industry partners like Roche Canada introduce new therapies that move beyond traditional IV delivery, Horizon is leading the way in rethinking cancer care by putting patient needs first and helping to build a more efficient, responsive health care system. Key benefits of an injection (subcutaneous) formulation to the patient, compared to traditional IV formulations, can include: 'The challenges faced by healthcare systems in Canada have never been greater. Horizon Health's outstanding leadership shows that transforming this system is possible. By thinking differently about how we collaborate, we can deliver better care to patients and their families. We are very proud to partner with Horizon Health on this project, which will help ensure all patients have access to the best innovation in healthcare, when they need it - a key part of Roche's vision,' said Dr. Dan Edgcumbe, Vice President of Medical and Regulatory Affairs at Roche Pharma Canada. 'This experience will help us all better understand the full value of healthcare innovation to provide more accessible, flexible care options while expanding healthcare system capacity.' Through this partnership, patients now have the choice to receive injections at home, reducing disruption to their daily lives and alleviating pressures on hospital resources. This innovative model empowers patients while supporting a more efficient and patient-centered health care system. This approach is also expected to improve health system operations by reducing pressure on infusion clinics, increasing treatment capacity, optimizing workflow and potentially lowering overall costs per patient. Horizon hopes health care systems across Canada will look to this example as a model for accelerating patient-centred innovation. Advancing research and adopting new approaches to care delivery will be critical to building a more sustainable health care system. Horizon is committed to fostering a culture of improving patient outcomes through research and innovation initiatives like this one. Each year, Horizon Research Services supports approximately 117 clinical trials for new treatments and solutions, along with nearly 307 investigator-led studies advancing health care knowledge and practice. Patients interested in participating in this study, referred to as Subcutaneous Treatment with Immunotherapy for Cancer Patients at Home, or STITCH-01, or another Horizon research study are encouraged to complete a research application form, available on the Horizon website. About Horizon Health Network Horizon Health Network is the largest regional health authority – and one of the largest employers – in New Brunswick, and the second-largest health authority in Atlantic Canada. Our leadership and health care providers are experts in diverse areas of health and community services and provide services to a half a million people. The organization has an annual budget of approximately $1.4 billion and has more than 14,000 employees, 1,242 physicians and 1,300 volunteers, as well as 17 foundations and 16 auxiliaries and alumnae organizations. About Roche Canada At Roche Canada, patients and science are at the heart of everything we do. Our passion for science and our commitment to relentlessly pursuing the impossible for patients have made us one of the world's leading pharmaceutical, in-vitro diagnostics, and diabetes care management companies. With our combined strength in diagnostics and pharmaceuticals, we're driving healthcare forward, while ensuring we deliver meaningful benefits for patients and sustainable healthcare systems. We are committed to creating a world where we all have more time with the people we love. And we're adding our expertise in new areas, such as artificial intelligence, real world data collection and analysis and collaborating with many different sectors and industries. Having the courage to reinvent ourselves and question the status quo is what patients and healthcare systems expect from Roche - and our commitment is as strong today as it was on the first day of our Canadian journey in 1931. Today, Roche Canada employs nearly 2,000 people at its offices in Mississauga, Ontario, in Laval, Quebec, and across the country from coast to coast to coast. For more information, please visit or follow Roche Canada on LinkedIn. About ResearchNB ResearchNB is the province's research and innovation enabler. With offices in Fredericton, Saint John and Moncton, it provides New Brunswick's research sector with critical leadership and support including advocacy, initial funding, connections to potential partners, and the translation of science into economic opportunities. Projects developed in partnership with ResearchNB help New Brunswickers to thrive through research that leads to new, innovative business practices and products. About New Brunswick Extra-Mural Program The New Brunswick Extra-Mural Program (EMP) delivers primary health care services to New Brunswickers of all ages in their homes and communities. EMP, known by many as the 'hospital without walls', includes a team of over 850 professionals who provide quality home health care services to eligible residents when their needs can be met safely in the community. EMP operates on a client and family centered model with a focus on building and maintaining partnerships with clients and their families, physicians, agencies, departments and other service providers to best meet patient needs. SOURCE Hoffmann-La Roche Limited (Roche Canada)
Irish Times
27-05-2025
- Business
- Irish Times
Poolbeg Pharma treatment gets FDA backing
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted orphan drug designation to Poolbeg's preventative therapy for cancer immunotherapy-induced Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS). The treatment, named POLB 001, is an oral preventative therapy to treat inflammation in blood and tissues. CRS is a severe side-effect that occurs in more than 70 per cent of patients, leading to severe side-effects or death. Cytokines can sweep throughout the body and cause tissue damage and shut down circulation and other essential organs. Orphan status is granted by the FDA for to support the development of treatments for rare disorders that affect under 200,000 people in the US, and makes the development of the drug less risky for Poolbeg, with the potential for seven-year period of US market exclusivity following approval of the treatment, waiver exemption of some fees and tax credits for qualified clinical trials. READ MORE 'POLB 001 is potentially a breakthrough, orally delivered, preventative therapy for cancer immunotherapy-induced CRS which could significantly impact patients' lives,' said Poolbeg chief executive Jeremy Skillington. 'We were delighted to receive Orphan Drug Designation from the FDA, which is a significant development for Poolbeg and for POLB 001, one that we believe will enhance the commercial appeal for prospective partners and help bring POLB 001 to the market faster. If approved, we believe POLB 001 has the potential to improve quality of life for patients, reduce pressure on healthcare systems, and expand access to cancer immunotherapies.' There are currently no approved preventative therapies for CRS. The first patients are expected to get the drug in the second half of the year, as part of Poolbeg's Phase 2a trial. 'Orphan Drug Designation from the FDA underscores the urgency and importance of developing innovative therapies for this critical unmet medical need,' said Professor Brendan Buckley, Poolbeg non-executive director and a member of the scientific advisory board. 'We look forward to progressing POLB 001 in our upcoming Phase 2a clinical trial and working closely with prospective partners and regulatory agencies to bring this potential therapy to patients as quickly as possible.'
