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Foundery Immune Studio's Groundbreaking Acquisition

On January 8, 2025, Foundery Immune Studio, LLC, a biotechnology venture studio based in San Francisco, revealed a significant acquisition that could reshape the landscape of immunotherapy. The studio has acquired global rights to three next-generation clinical-stage immune tuning therapies from Ikena Oncology, Inc., indicating a strong commitment to advancing treatments for various challenging diseases, including solid tumors and autoimmune conditions.

The founding team at Foundery, comprising the notable scientists Venkataraman “Sriram,” PhD, Michel Streuli, PhD, and Matthew “Max” Krummel, PhD, aim to leverage their extensive expertise in immunology to develop new therapeutic options. These monoclonal antibodies, specifically designed to target myeloid cells—a major component of the tumor microenvironment—represent a departure from traditional therapies that primarily focus on T cells.

Recent research has unveiled the crucial roles played by TREM1, TREM2, and MARCO in regulating immune responses within cancers and other diseases. The myeloid population can constitute up to 50% of tumor cells, and by targeting receptors on these cells, the new therapies can fine-tune the immune system with precision. This innovative approach could dramatically impact the treatment of cancers, fibrotic conditions, and autoimmune diseases, following encouraging results from early-phase clinical trials.

Among the therapies acquired, PY314 and PY159 have completed Phase 1 trials, demonstrating promising pharmacodynamic effects alongside established medications like pembrolizumab. The third therapy, PY265, which targets MARCO, is poised to initiate Investigational New Drug (IND) application. These developments signify a potential turning point in the treatment approach for various immunological disorders.

Matthew