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Kezar co-founder Christopher Kirk, Ph.D. began his work on the unique function of the immunoproteasome at Proteolix in 2005, while working on the compound that would become the successful multiple myeloma drug KYPROLIS™ (carfilzomib). As VP of Research at Onyx Pharmaceuticals, which acquired Proteolix in 2009, Christopher led the efforts to develop the first selective inhibitors of the immunoproteasome and designed multiple studies demonstrating their profound immunomodulatory effects. In parallel with this work, Christopher and Kezar co-founder Jack Taunton, Ph.D. collaborated on several research projects involving protein secretion. This collaboration inspired a belief in the strong synergies between protein degradation and protein secretion, two fertile areas for drug discovery with platform potential. In 2014, Christopher and Kezar co-founder John Fowler began developing the business plan for Kezar, acting on a longstanding desire to work together and build a world-class company. In 2015, John and Christopher raised $23M and negotiated a worldwide, exclusive license agreement with Amgen for the Onyx immunoproteasome inhibitor patent estate. Now underway, John and Christopher are excited to leverage their complementary skill sets to build Kezar into a leader in small molecule drug development.
Verastem Oncology (Nasdaq: VSTM) is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing and commercializing medicines to improve the survival and quality of life of cancer patients. We are driven by the strength, tenacity and courage of those battling cancer – single-minded in our resolve to deliver new therapies that not only keep cancer at bay but improve the lives of patients diagnosed with cancer. Because for us, it`s personal. Our team is anchored by core values of character, urgency, respect and excellence. We pride ourselves in being an organization committed to diversity and inclusion in order to achieve and sustain excellence. We believe that empowering employees is what makes them truly care about the important work they do.
Rezolute is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company specializing in the development of innovative drug therapies to improve the lives of patients with metabolic and orphan diseases.
Lion Biotechnologies (LBIO) is focused on the development and commercialization of novel cancer immunotherapies based on tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL). Under a collaborative research and development agreement with Dr. Steven A. Rosenberg at the National Cancer Institute, we are investigating our our lead product candidate, LN-144, in the treatment of stage 4 metastatic melanoma. In clinical trials, LN-144 has demonstrated curative potential in patients with metastatic melanoma, and it may also be applicable to a wide range of other solid tumors. As we continue advancing our current clinical programs in collaboration with NCI, Moffitt Cancer Center and MD Anderson, we are also developing next-generation TIL products and an optimized manufacturing process that will enable the production of highly potent, engineered cells at a significantly reduced cost. With unique and versatile technology, promising clinical programs, strong intellectual property, high-profile collaborations and seasoned leadership, Lion is committed to elevating hope and treatment standards for patients, while creating exceptional value for its shareholders.
San Diego-based Biocept, Inc. (Nasdaq: BIOC) develops and performs diagnostic assays that provide clinically actionable information to improve outcomes for patients with a variety of cancers. Biocept`s unique combination of cell-based and cell-free DNA analysis allows us to rapidly detect and monitor certain cancer biomarkers in blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Our patented Target Selector™ technology quantitatively analyzes tumor cells for tumor-associated biomarkers, offering high sensitivity and specificity compared with methods currently used by other laboratories. In addition to our broad portfolio of blood-based liquid biopsy tests, we offer the CNSide™ CSF assay, which addresses an unmet clinical need for patients with cancer that has metastasized to the central nervous system. Between 10% and 30% of patients with cancer will develop brain or spinal cord metastasis. Survival is often low, and few are diagnosed early enough for effective therapeutic intervention. CNSide answers three key questions: Is there a tumor? Is there a target for treatment? Is there a trend in treatment response? We offer diagnostic laboratory services for oncologists, pathologists, hospitals, cancer centers, universities, pharmaceutical and clinical researchers, and other healthcare providers. Our CLIA-certified and CAP-accredited laboratory combines a highly trained professional staff with innovative instrumentation for optimal test results and quality control. Biocept works with strategic industry leaders, as well as major cancer centers across the U.S., to further its mission of helping to improve outcomes for cancer patients. We also are utilizing our molecular diagnostic capabilities to offer nationwide RT-PCR-based COVID-19 testing and services to support public health efforts. Revenue from COVID-19 testing has supported further investment in our core oncology business, positioning the company for long-term success.