Occam Enhances CytomX's Board with Experienced Physician Executive

In March 2024, Occam recruited Zhen Su, MD, to the Board of CytomX Therapeutics, a public clinical-stage biotech in conditionally activated, localized biologics for solid tumors. In January of 2023, the company signed a substantial licensing deal with Moderna. 

Su is an accomplished physician executive with nearly thirty years of experience leading oncology research & development and commercial organizations. As the current CEO of Marengo Therapeutics, Su has made significant strides. Under his leadership, the company has expanded its pipeline, progressed its lead asset into clinical trials, and brokered a $1.6B partnership with Ipsen.

Before joining Marengo, Zhen Su served as the Senior Vice President and Global Head of the oncology business franchise for Merck KGaA. Previously, he served as the Chief Medical Officer at EMD Serono and held progressively senior leadership positions at Sanofi and GSK.

CytomX Therapeutics Innovative Technology

‍

CytomX Therapeutics is known for its innovative approach to cancer treatment through the development of conditionally activated biologics. Their Probody® therapeutic platform allows for the targeting of biologic drugs specifically to tumor tissues, thereby minimizing systemic exposure and reducing off-target toxicity. This technology is particularly advantageous for treating solid tumors, which are often difficult to target with conventional biologics due to the risk of harming healthy tissues. By localizing the activation of therapeutic agents, CytomX's technology offers a safer and potentially more effective treatment option for cancer patients.

‍

In early 2023, CytomX Therapeutics entered a major licensing agreement with Moderna to collaborate on developing conditionally activated mRNA-based therapies. This partnership aims to leverage Moderna's mRNA technology alongside CytomX's localized activation expertise, combining the strengths of both platforms to create more precise and targeted cancer treatments. This collaboration highlights CytomX's growing influence in the oncology space and its commitment to advancing the next generation of cancer therapies.