Anixa Biosciences, Inc. has appointed Suyasha Gupta as Senior Director of Clinical Development, effective October 7, 2024. Gupta will collaborate with Chief Development Officer Dr. Pamela Garzone to manage the company's clinical trials, including a Phase 1 breast cancer vaccine trial, a Phase 1 ovarian cancer CAR-T therapy trial, and an upcoming Phase 2 breast cancer vaccine trial.
Gupta brings extensive experience in oncology and hematology clinical trials, having previously served as a Clinical Scientist at Genentech. During her time at Genentech, she managed Phase 2 and 3 studies across the cancer immunotherapy pipeline, working with molecules such as Atezolizumab and Mosunetuzumab across multiple indications including renal cell, bladder cancer and follicular lymphoma. Her background also includes clinical operations, where she managed biomarker strategies for global trials in oncology and ophthalmology.
Leadership Comments
"We are pleased to welcome Suyasha to our team," said Dr. Garzone. "Her extensive experience managing complex oncology trials, coupled with her proven ability to lead clinical development programs, will be an invaluable asset as we advance our pipeline of innovative therapies. Suyasha's expertise in oncology, particularly in the design and execution of late-stage clinical trials, aligns perfectly with our strategic goals. Her contributions will be especially critical, not only for our current trials, but also as we embark on later stage trials."
Gupta stated, "I am excited to join Anixa, working on advancing cutting edge science to develop therapies in areas with critical unmet need. Their cancer vaccine and CAR-T program have a strong potential to provide patients with new treatment options. I am looking forward to working with the team as we take these platforms into late-stage development."
Anixa's Breast Cancer Vaccine Program
Anixa's breast cancer vaccine targets "retired" proteins, such as α-lactalbumin, which are present in certain breast cancers but not in normal, aging tissues post-lactation. The vaccine aims to activate the immune system against these proteins, providing preemptive immune protection. Phase 1 data presented at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium in December 2023 showed no safety concerns, with immune responses observed in a majority of patients. Additional Phase 1 data will be presented at the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) Annual Meeting in early November 2024. The Phase 1 trial is a collaboration with Cleveland Clinic and is funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Defense.
Strategic Focus on Therapeutic Approach
Anixa is shifting its Phase 2 breast cancer vaccine trial to focus on a therapeutic approach rather than prevention. "This strategy not only offers a faster route to regulatory success but also ensures a more cost-effective approach, maximizing the impact of our resources," Dr. Garzone noted.
About Anixa Biosciences
Anixa Biosciences is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on cancer treatment and prevention. Their portfolio includes an ovarian cancer immunotherapy program using chimeric endocrine receptor-T cell (CER-T) technology, and vaccines for breast and ovarian cancer targeting "retired" proteins.
