Dr. Francis S. Collins Takes on New Role at ImmunoBrain Board to Advance Alzheimer's Research

ImmunoBrain, a pioneering clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative immunotherapeutic approaches for neurodegenerative conditions, recently announced a significant appointment. Dr. Francis S. Collins, a leading figure in biomedical research, has joined the company’s board of directors. Known for his comprehensive contributions to science and healthcare, Dr. Collins arrives at ImmunoBrain with an extensive background, including serving as the 16th director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) under three presidential administrations. This esteemed physician-scientist has a history that spans over four decades of groundbreaking research and leadership.

Dr. Collins has attributed much of his professional focus on addressing conditions like Alzheimer's disease—an ongoing personal priority and one of the greatest challenges faced in modern medicine. Reflecting on the complexities of Alzheimer's, he remarked, "This is a condition that has been a source of great suffering for individuals and their families. Alzheimer's disease needs attention, new ideas, and progress." Over the years, while efforts have largely concentrated on the amyloid and tau proteins related to the disease, Dr. Collins emphasizes the essential need for additional insights to create truly effective treatment solutions.

One crucial area that has emerged from his investigations into genetic risk factors is the role of the immune system. With promising results stemming from research conducted by Professor Michal Schwartz, who’s dedicated over two decades to studying Alzheimer’s through the lens of immunology, Dr. Collins sees potential in exploring treatment avenues based on this new understanding. By joining ImmunoBrain, he aims to contribute to deciphering these complex challenges and help develop effective theories for treatment.

The company has garnered attention recently through its ongoing Phase 1b clinical trial, which is evaluating its primary drug candidate, IBC-Ab002, specifically designed to target Alzheimer's disease and various forms of dementia by modulating an inhibitory immune checkpoint pathway. With interim data from the trials displaying encouraging results, Dr. Collins’ involvement could prove exceedingly beneficial as the company transitions towards the next phases of clinical evaluation.

Dr. Avraham Kadar, chairman of the board at ImmunoBrain, expressed great optimism regarding Dr. Collins' contributions, stating, "I have always admired Dr. Collins for his bold pursuit of scientific advancement and the path he paved for numerous medical breakthroughs in service of humanity. With his vast experience and insights, Dr. Collins is an invaluable addition to our mission as we forge new therapeutic pathways for neurodegenerative diseases."

Founded in 2015, ImmunoBrain is deeply rooted in over 25 years of research led by Scientific Co-Founder and Chief Scientific Officer Professor Michal Schwartz. Her significant findings have corroborated the long-overlooked necessity of the immune system’s support for brain maintenance and repair—insight that has further implications for understanding brain aging and neurodegenerative diseases.

The development of IBC-Ab002, a proprietary Fc-modified anti-PD-L1 antibody, reflects an innovative approach derived from this groundbreaking research. It represents a significant advancement towards the treatment of neurological diseases, and current evaluations, supported partially by grants from the National Institute on Aging and the Alzheimer's Association, aim to shed light on its efficacy. Initial results from the completed study are anticipated in the first quarter of 2026.

Dr. Collins’ new role at ImmunoBrain marks not just a positive strategic move for the company, but also a compelling narrative in the broader trajectory of medical science's fight against neurodegenerative diseases that have challenged humanity. With a dedicated focus on enhancing therapeutic approaches and potential breakthroughs, ImmunoBrain is poised to play a central role in combatting conditions that continue to affect millions globally.