Oncoheroes Biosciences Selected as Finalist for J.P. Morgan Life Sciences Innovation Summit

Oncoheroes Biosciences is proud to announce we have been selected as one of the eleven finalists of the inaugural J.P. Morgan Asset Management: Life Sciences Innovation Summit. Scheduled for May 14th–15th, 2024, at the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, this event aims to cultivate a thriving ecosystem for early-stage entrepreneurs in the life sciences sector.

The summit, sponsored by J.P. Morgan Life Sciences Private Capital, Blue Horizon Advisors, and United AlSaqer Group, coincides with the Abu Dhabi Global Healthcare Week, drawing top-tier innovators and investors from around the globe. With a focus on fostering scientific innovation in Abu Dhabi, the summit seeks to propel the growth of the region's life sciences industry.

Cesare Spadoni, Oncoheroes Biosciences’ co-founder and COO, will present Oncoheroes’ pioneering work to a panel of judges comprising industry leaders and investors, including Dr. Laurie Glimcher, President and CEO of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Dr. Jorge Guzman, CEO of the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Prof. Shahrukh Khurshid Hashmi, Director of Research at the Department of Health of Abu Dhabi, Dr. David Hung, President and CEO at Nuvation Bio, Dr. Yasmine Hayek Kobeissi, Executive Director at Blue Horizon Advisors, and Ms. Anya Schiess, Managing Partner at J.P. Morgan Life Sciences Private Capital. This recognition highlights Oncoheroes Biosciences' commitment to advancing novel treatments for childhood cancers.

Super Sam Foundation Reaffirms Support for Oncoheroes' Pediatric Cancer Drive

In June 2020, the Super Sam Foundation invested in Oncoheroes Biosciences, with the aim of advancing the development of new treatments for childhood cancer. Founded in honor of Sam, a courageous rhabdomyosarcoma fighter who ardently wished for better treatment options for "all the kids," the foundation has remained steadfast in its commitment to improving outcomes for children battling cancer.

As Oncoheroes prepares to evaluate the efficacy of its lead compound, volasertib, across five pediatric cancer indications, including rhabdomyosarcoma, the Super Sam Foundation once again steps forward to support our mission. With the latest grant provided by the foundation, the international clinical trial to assess volasertib is now one significant step closer to beginning.

Cassie Santhuff, president and co-founder of the Super Sam Foundation, expresses her support to Oncoheroes, stating, “At Super Sam Foundation, we are committed to funding meaningful research that moves the needle one step closer to saving more lives. Oncoheroes’ innovative approach to their work is both meaningful and effective in the fight to help all the kids who battle cancer. We are, once again, thrilled to partner with the team to continue our support for volasertib. This drug is full-circle for our Foundation, as we wish our Founding Hero, Sam, would have had this drug as an option during his fight 10 years ago. We are deeply appreciative of the incredible work Oncoheroes is doing in the childhood cancer community and excited to support their vital work”.

Together, with the support of partners like the Super Sam Foundation, Oncoheroes can continue to make meaningful strides in advancing pediatric cancer research. We want to express our genuine thanks to the Super Sam Foundation for their generous support and dedication to Oncoheroes' mission.

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Oncoheroes Announces Advancement in Pediatric Cancer Research

Oncoheroes Biosciences is proud to announce a significant milestone in its mission to combat pediatric brain cancer. In a recent paper published in SLAS Discovery journal titled "Development of a High-Throughput Screening Platform to Identify New Therapeutic Agents for Medulloblastoma Group 3" authored by Inés Fallon, Henar Hernando, Olga Almacellas-Rabaiget, Berta Marti-Fuster, Cesare Spadoni, Darell D Bigner, and Eva Méndez, our team reveals the development of an innovative screening platform aimed at identifying potential drug candidates for medulloblastoma, a type of brain cancer prevalent in children

Medulloblastoma presents a formidable challenge in oncology due to its resistance to traditional treatments. Oncoheroes recognizes that early selection of compounds that effectively target cancer cells while sparing normal tissues is crucial for success in clinical trials. Addressing this challenge head-on, we have engineered a screening platform designed to minimize toxicity risks and advance molecules with the highest likelihood of efficacy and safety for patients. Cesare Spadoni, Oncoheroes’ Chief Operating Officer and co-founder elaborates, "The development of this platform signifies a pivotal step forward in our quest to accelerate pediatric oncology drug development. By prioritizing safety and efficacy, we aim to accelerate the translation of scientific discoveries into life-saving therapies".

The publication of our research in SLAS Discovery marks a significant achievement for Oncoheroes. Inés Fallon, the first author of the paper, expresses our team's enthusiasm, stating, "We are thrilled to contribute to the body of knowledge surrounding pediatric brain tumors. This publication underscores our commitment to collaboration and innovation in the fight against childhood cancer".

Caroline Symmes Children’s Cancer Endowment backs up Oncoheroes’ mission

Caroline Symmes was diagnosed with Wilms Tumor Disease a month before her fourth birthday. Throughout her treatments, her parents confronted the stark reality of childhood cancer, which posed unique challenges distinct from those of adult cancer. Despite the high cure rate associated with Caroline’s type of cancer, her aggressive tumor ultimately claimed her life.

Out of her tragedy, the Caroline Symmes Children's Cancer Endowment was established in 2014 to fund research and inspire hope in future pediatric patients and their families. Today the Teen Board explores unique efforts around the world focusing on cutting-edge organizations gaining prominence within the field of pediatric cancer research.

“Our Teen Board is honored and excited to be a part of Oncoheroes Biosciences journey of becoming the global leader in delivering new pediatric oncology drugs, along with expanding the Endowment’s reach beyond the Indianapolis, Indiana area”, stated Holyn Drook, Teen Board Chair, Philanthropy/Research Committee.

Oncoheroes extends its sincere gratitude to the Caroline Symmes Children’s Cancer Endowment and their Teen Board for their commitment to our shared mission. Thanks to this new grant, the international clinical trial to assess the efficacy of our lead-compound, volasertib, in five different types of pediatric cancer, is one step closer to launching.

The collaboration between the Caroline Symmes Children’s Cancer Endowment and Oncoheroes underscores a united front in the battle against pediatric cancer. Together, we strive to transform the landscape of childhood cancer treatment, offering new avenues of hope and healing for patients and their families.

Thank you!

Brittney’s Believers Foundation Joins Forces with Oncoheroes to Fight Childhood Cancer

Brittney Gail Bliss brought joy to all who knew her with her love for dress-up, crafting, and dance parties. Tragically, her life was cut short when she was diagnosed with Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma in May 2022. In her memory, her parents, Elena and Brian, established Brittney’s Believers Foundation, dedicated to raising funds and awareness for childhood cancer research.

 Now, Brittney’s Believers Foundation has joined forces with Oncoheroes to support the advancement of pediatric oncology. Their generous grant will contribute to the launch of an international clinical trial testing the efficacy of Oncoheroes' lead-compound, volasertib, in five different types of pediatric cancer, including rhabdomyosarcoma.

“We decided to partner with Oncoheroes because they are at the forefront in fighting childhood cancer! The work they are doing aligns with our mission in hopes of finding new and better ways to treat and one day defeat childhood cancer!”, stated Elena, Brittney’s mother.

Oncoheroes extends our deepest gratitude to Brittney’s Believers Foundation for their unwavering support. Together, we are committed to developing new therapies specifically tailored to pediatric oncology, offering hope to children battling cancer worldwide.

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Rallying for a Cure: Oncoheroes Biosciences receives a grant from Rally Foundation

In 2005, Dean Crowe faced a question that would change lives: "What can I do to help?" This simple inquiry, posed to a friend whose 17-year-old son, William, was battling brain cancer for the second time, sparked the inception of Rally Foundation for Childhood Cancer Research. Moved by the urgency to make a difference, Dean embarked on a mission to raise funds for childhood cancer research. With a steadfast dedication to advancing pediatric cancer research, Rally Foundation has awarded an impressive $29.4 million in grants to institutions across the nation and around the globe. Each grant represents not just a monetary contribution, but a beacon of hope for children and families facing the unimaginable challenges of cancer.

In alignment with International Childhood Cancer Day, Dean Crowe, CEO and founder of Rally Foundation, announced that Oncoheroes Biosciences, has been selected as the recipient of a new grant. “Each grant funded by Rally Foundation for Childhood Cancer Research is chosen through a rigorous dual peer-review process. Rally’s Medical Advisory Board recognizes the promise of this international clinical trial and Oncoheroes’ lead compound that targets five different pediatric cancers. We are encouraged that this trial will bring hope to children and adolescents fighting cancer”, stated Dean.

This grant marks the third time Rally has provided crucial support to advance Oncoheroes’ mission of finding new and better therapies for childhood cancer. Since 2021, Rally Foundation has been a vital partner in Oncoheroes’ journey, investing in the company twice during that year alone. The grant will contribute to launch an international clinical trial to test the efficacy of Oncoheroes’ lead compound, volasertib, in five types of pediatric cancer. On behalf of Oncoheroes Biosciences, we extend our deepest gratitude to Rally Foundation for their support and unwavering belief in our mission.

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Oncoheroes Biosciences: the pivotal role of non-profits in pediatric drug development

Oncoheroes Biosciences was founded by two fathers whose personal experiences with childhood cancer ignited a passionate vision for change. Recognizing the urgent need for dedicated advancement in pediatric oncology therapies, they embarked on a mission to make a difference.

Since its inception in 2017, Oncoheroes Biosciences has rapidly evolved, buoyed by the unwavering support of numerous foundations worldwide. With their backing, we've built a portfolio featuring three clinic-ready compounds, poised to address eight different types of pediatric cancer indications. Now, our primary goal is securing the necessary funding to propel the testing of our lead compound, volasertib, in five types of pediatric cancer (Ewing’s sarcoma, alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, medulloblastoma, neuroblastoma and DMG including DIPG).

In collaboration with Hopp Children’s Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ), this trial will span 20 sites across multiple countries, enrolling approximately 110 patients who have exhausted their treatment options.

We extend our deepest gratitude to all the non-profits, organizations, and individuals committed to our mission. Your steadfast support has been instrumental in our journey thus far, and we look forward to continuing this vital work together in the chapters ahead.

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Rekindling Hope: Scott Carter Foundation and Oncoheroes Reunite to Tackle Pediatric Cancer

In September 2021, the Scott Carter Foundation decided to join Oncoheroes’ quest for new pediatric oncology treatments by investing in the company. After almost three years, coinciding with International Childhood Cancer Day, the foundation announced that it maintained its commitment to Oncoheroes. The Scott Carter Foundation will now provide a grant to support the launch of an international clinical trial to test the efficacy of Oncoheroes’ lead compound, Volasertib, in five different types of pediatric cancer. This clinical trial led by Hopp Children’s Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ) represents a new beacon of hope for children and adolescents who have exhausted their treatment options.

Paula Carter, mom to Scott Carter, the brave 13 year-old who tragically passed away in 1993, after a three-year long battle against osteosarcoma, announced the foundation’s new support to Oncoheroes at the Oncothon event. “The Scott Carter Foundation has been dedicated to supporting  pediatric cancer research for thirty years.  It has been disheartening to find that some treatment protocols have not changed at all and to note that in the last three decades, only seven drugs have been approved specifically for pediatric cancer. It is incredible to partner with a company solely devoted to developing new treatments for these young patients. We're excited to announce our contribution of additional funds to expedite the launch of the Volasertib trial as soon as possible”, stated Paula.

We are profoundly thankful to the Scott Carter Foundation for their steadfast commitment and unwavering support in our joint endeavor to combat pediatric cancer. Their dedication shines as a guiding light, fueling our determination to explore new frontiers in research and innovation.

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Empowering hope: Oncoheroes Biosciences and Foundation for Addie’s Research Renew Commitment to Transform Pediatric Cancer Treatments

The Foundation for Addie’s Research initiatied its partnership with Oncoheroes Biosciences in June 2022 providing crucial support for Oncoheroes’ initial strides towards advancing clinical development for its lead compound, Volasertib.

Today, the Foundation for Addie’s Research renews its commitment to Oncoheroes’ mission of discovering effective therapies for pediatric cancer patients by providing additional support to initiate a clinical trial to evaluate Volasertib’s effectiveness in treating five aggressive pediatric cancers. This international trial, organized in partnership with Hopp Children’s Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ), will take place in different sites across Europe, the United Kingdom and Australia, and represents a new beacon of hope for children and adolescents who have exhausted their treatment options.

Christina Stiverson, President of the Foundation for Addie’s Research, conveyed her enthusiasm about this pivotal development, stating, 'We are extremely excited to see the Volasertib trial move forward from bench science to the bedside. After years of supporting pre-clinical research on Volasertib, we are grateful for our partnership with Oncoheroes to make this treatment available for patients with rare pediatric cancers.'

The Foundation for Addie’s Research stems from the brave journey of Adelaide, “Addie”, a courageous childhood cancer who battled Hepatoblastoma and saddly passed away in 2016 at the age of three. This foundation is focused on pre-clinical research and innovative trials aiming to expand treatment options for children facing circumstances similar to Addie’s. In addition, Foundation for Addie’s Research created the Hepatoblastoma Resource Network, a comprehensive resource hub designated to unite and support families within the fragmented rare cancer community.

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Oncoheroes & Ally Anderson Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma Research Fund Supported by Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation Join Forces to Test Volasertib’s Potential

250 children die from cancer every day across the globe. Childhood cancer is still the first cause of death by disease among children in the U.S. Despite this, there are only seven drugs specifically designed and approved for pediatric cancer. Oncoheroes Biosciences is now at a crucial moment in its quest to find effective therapies for pediatric cancer patients, as they have the unprecedented opportunity to test Volasertib, one of its three clinic-ready compounds, in a crucial clinical trial. This trial is not just any trial - it's a beacon of hope for children and adolescents who have exhausted all other treatment options, battling against five aggressive pediatric cancers: Ewing sarcoma, medulloblastoma, neuroblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, and diffuse midline glioma (DMG), including diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG).

The Ally Anderson Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma (aRMS) Research Fund | AllyARMSFund.org established in honor of childhood cancer fighter, Ally Anderson, will dedicate its initial funds to support Oncoheroes. Ally’s battle against aRMS began five years ago, and her journey illuminated the pressing need for advancements in pediatric cancer research, specifically in aRMS, a focal point of Oncoheroes’ clinic-ready compound, Volasertib.

"A few days before Ally left us, Ally was determined to make a difference so other children could access what eluded her. Her foremost goal was to support Oncoheroes in launching Volasertib’s trial" stated Patty Anderson, Ally's mother. 

AllyARMSFund is supported by Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation and its goal is to raise research funds to help find safer and less-toxic treatments for Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma. At Ally’s request, the initial funding will support Oncoheroes in its partnership with Hopp Children’s Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ) to test Volasertib’s efficacy in several types of pediatric cancers, including Rhabdomyosarcoma. This basket trial, largely supported by Ein Herz für Kinder, would be the first comprehensive pediatric evaluation of this promising compound and would serve as the basis for a later global registration trial in the most suitable pediatric indication.

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