Asgard Therapeutics Enhances Leadership with Key Appointments
Asgard Therapeutics, a private biotech firm known for its innovative approach to cancer immunotherapy through direct in vivo cell reprogramming, has announced several key appointments to its leadership structure. This strategic move aims to bolster the company's capabilities as it prepares for clinical trials of its pioneering treatment, AT-108.
Strengthening the Board
The latest additions include Dr. Cristina Csimma on the Board of Directors, alongside Esteemed Professors Ignacio Melero and Brian Brown who join the company's Clinical and Scientific Advisory Board. This influx of expertise signals Asgard's dedication to advancing AT-108, a groundbreaking first-in-class cell reprogramming therapy designed for personalized cancer treatment.
Cristiana Pires, Co-founder and CEO of Asgard Therapeutics, expressed her enthusiasm about the appointments, stating, "The ability to attract such renowned experts underscores the potential of our technology and the rapid pace of our progress. With Shane Olwill’s recent addition as Chief Development Officer, we are now well-equipped to push our lead asset, AT-108, towards clinical trials."
Dr. Cristina Csimma’s Role
Dr. Csimma brings extensive experience in drug development and venture capital to the Board. Her previous roles include director positions at Syncona Limited and New York Blood Center Ventures, where she honed her skills in fostering biotech innovations.
In her words, “Asgard’s unique approach using in vivo direct cell reprogramming as a cancer immunotherapy is an exciting technology. I look forward to contributing to the realization of its therapeutic potential.”
Pioneering Immunologists
Joining Asgard is Professor Ignacio Melero, a distinguished leader in immunotherapy research, known for his substantial contributions to multiple clinical trials. He currently co-chairs the Department of Immunology at the Clínica Universidad de Navarra and holds a new position as Kidani Professor of Cancer Immuno-Therapeutics at the University of Oxford.
Regarding his new role, Melero stated, “Asgard’s innovative strategy of using cell reprogramming for a personalized yet off-the-shelf immunotherapy is highly original and strongly backed by preclinical evidence. I am eager to support the team in their mission.”
Professor Brian Brown, an authority in cancer immunology and gene delivery technologies, is also excited to contribute as a Scientific Advisory Board member. With groundbreaking inventions in gene therapy and critical research on tumor microenvironments, he recognizes the impact of Asgard’s work, stating, “This immunotherapy represents a significant advancement in cancer treatment, addressing challenges faced by other therapies.”
Forward Momentum
These appointments come at a vital time for Asgard Therapeutics, which is currently advancing IND-enabling studies as it prepares AT-108 for clinical trials. The company’s commitment to leveraging its innovative reprogramming technology aims to generate personalized, effective immune responses against cancer. Previous studies showcasing the proof-of-concept for AT-108 were published in September in the highly regarded journal,
Science, marking a significant milestone for the company's research and development efforts.
By assembling such an accomplished team, Asgard Therapeutics is strategically positioning itself to lead the charge in the evolving landscape of cancer therapeutics, potentially offering new hope to patients battling this disease.
For more information, visit
Asgard Therapeutics.
Conclusion
Asgard Therapeutics is set to redefine cancer treatment through its state-of-the-art approaches and powerful new alliances. With this strengthened leadership team, the company aims to pave the way for innovative cancer immunotherapies that promise to change the lives of many.