Introduction
Ascendo Biotechnology is a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company founded in 2019. We leverage cutting-edge research in the field of dysregulated immune function to develop novel immunotherapy solutions for cancer and autoimmune diseases.
Our lead asset, ASD141, is a first-in-class monoclonal antibody that blocks the innate immune checkpoint TLT-1 signaling and modulates the tumor microenvironment (TME). TLT-1 is a platelet-derived protein highly expressed in a wide range of tumors, particularly those resistant to current checkpoint inhibitors, such as anti-PD1. In pre-clinical studies, ASD141 demonstrated anti-tumor activity in humanized mouse models, both as a monotherapy and in combination with anti-PD1 or anti-CTLA-4 antibodies. ASD141 is currently undergoing Phase I dose escalation trials.
We are also developing ASD001, a monoclonal antibody designed to activate the TLT-1/Mac-1 innate immune checkpoint. This asset is being investigated for its potential to modulate immune responses in autoimmune diseases, including conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Mac-1, a receptor involved in immune cell activation, has been linked to monogenic mutations that contribute to the development of SLE. ASD001 is currently in preclinical animal proof-of-concept (PoC) studies.
We are actively seeking partnerships for licensing, co-development, and investment opportunities.
A Brief History
Ascendo is a spin-out from BRIM Biotechnology and was fully incorporated in. In 2020, we successfully discovered lead compound ASD141, our first-in-class innate immune checkpoint inhibitor therapeutic for solid-form tumors. ASD141 has untapped potential as a novel approach to immunotherapy. A fast-track development program is underway, and the compound has now entered Phase I clinical trials with the first patient dosed and no safety concerns observed.In addition, ASD001, a novel small molecule therapeutic targeting inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, is currently in preclinical development. Together, these programs represent Ascendo’s commitment to advancing innovative immunomodulatory therapies.
Now
Today, Ascendo Biotechnology holds 12 registered patents and continues to expand its portfolio of novel immunomodulatory therapeutics. Our pipeline includes ASD141, currently in Phase I clinical trials for solid tumors, and ASD001, a preclinical-stage candidate targeting autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. In addition to our internal programs, we are actively advancing several promising in-licensed technologies to broaden our therapeutic impact across oncology and immunology.See our pipeline for more information. As we grow, we remain committed to developing breakthrough therapeutic and preventative solutions that address high unmet medical needs.
Our Partners
Our People
Our Leadership Team
DR Du-Shieng Chien
CHAIRMAN / CEO
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- Ph.D. in Biopharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics from the University of Iowa
- experience in new drug research and development during his tenure with Allergan, Bayer, and Neurogen.
- Associate Director of the Division of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Research at National Health Research Institutes
- President and CEO of SunTen Phytotech
- President and CEO Efficient Pharma Management Corp
Dr Yen-Ta Lu
Chief Scientific Officer
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- Chief of Chest Medicine at the MacKay Memorial Hospital (MMH) in Taipei, Taiwan.
- Lead investigator for immunotherapy drug development for both tuberculosis and sepsis.
Our Scientific Advisory Board
JANG-YANG CHANG MD
SUPERINTENDENT, TAIPEI CANCER CENTER, TAIPEI MEDICAL UNIVERSITY
WEN CHYI SHYU PHD
CEO, BRIM Biotechnology, Inc.
SHYH-YUH LIOU PHD
• Exclusive advisor, translational medicine center & discovery technology research laboratories, Ono Pharmaceutical Co. Limited.
FRANK LEE PHD
• VP of DMPK, Takeda Oncology Company (retired)
Tony Ho, MD, PhD
Independent Board of Director, Iteos Therapeutics
Partner of choice for novel immunotherapeutics
Ascendo Biotechnology is a strategic partner of choice for novel immunotherapies which exploit the interplay between the innate and adaptive immune response. We are currently seeking partners to accelerate the development and commercialization of our lead oncology drug, ASD141.
If you’re interested in discussing our programmes, please get in touch: