#USA #Cambridge #Marengo Therapeutics #Invikafusp Alfa #Dr. Everett Vokes

Marengo Therapeutics Strengthens Leadership in Precision Oncology

In a significant move that underscores its commitment to advancing cancer therapies, Marengo Therapeutics, Inc. has appointed Dr. Everett Vokes to its Scientific Advisory Board (SAB). This decision aligns with the company’s ongoing strategies in precision oncology, particularly concerning the clinical development of Invikafusp alfa aimed at addressing solid tumors resistant to PD-1 treatment.

A Strong Addition to the Team

Dr. Everett Vokes, a noted figure in oncology, brings over 40 years of extensive clinical and translational research experience to Marengo. Renowned for his work in treating head and neck as well as lung cancers, he is currently the John E. Ultmann Distinguished Service Professor of Medicine at the University of Chicago and has held leadership roles such as the Physician-in-Chief for UChicago Medicine. Notably, he served as the 2021-2022 President of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).

The addition of Dr. Vokes signifies Marengo's intention to enhance its research focus, particularly in the promising field of immunotherapy. Zhen Su, CEO of Marengo Therapeutics, expressed pride in welcoming Dr. Vokes, citing his vast expertise and potential to steer the company's innovative oncology pipeline forward.

Focus on Invikafusp alfa

The appointment arrives shortly after Marengo presented data at the AACR (American Association for Cancer Research) showing that Invikafusp alfa exhibits pan-tumor activity across various solid cancers that have historically exhibited resistance to PD-1 treatment. Dr. Vokes's depth of knowledge in clinical cancer research, especially regarding thoracic oncology, is expected to be pivotal as Marengo seeks to refine its development strategies around Invikafusp alfa.

Dr. Vokes noted, “Marengo's approach to precision T cell activation is a key scientific advancement with the potential to address urgent medical needs in treatment-resistant cancers. The compelling early signals from studies in MSS CRC and PD-1 negative NSCLC highlight the promise of a novel mechanism to surpass PD-1 resistance.” His insights, paired with his significant research experience, will support Marengo as it works to enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy in challenging cancer types.

Dr. Vokes's Impact and Background

Renowned for his contributions to cooperative group research, Dr. Vokes has also chaired committees and served as a principal investigator for numerous NCI-funded clinical trials. His accolades include the Translational Research Professorship from ASCO and the prestigious “Giant of Cancer Care” award. He has authored more than 450 scientific papers and contributed to 80 book chapters, and his insights have shaped numerous leading oncology journals.

The SAB at Marengo consists of some of the most respected figures in clinical and translational oncology and immunology, solidifying its reputation in the industry. Dr. Vokes's vision to collaborate with this team reaffirms the company's accelerated momentum in oncology development.

The Future of Marengo Therapeutics

Marengo Therapeutics, Inc. is dedicated to exploiting innovative therapies for cancer and autoimmune diseases through its proprietary platforms: STAR™, TriSTAR™, and MSTAR™. As they continue to develop pioneering TCR-targeting antibodies, the insights and guidance provided by Dr. Vokes will undoubtedly help steer their clinical pathways and broaden the impact of immunotherapies in cancer treatments.

For those interested in learning more about Marengo Therapeutics and their cutting-edge work in immunotherapy, additional information is available at www.marengotx.com.