Cancer Research Horizons: Comprehensive Company Profile

Background

Overview

Cancer Research Horizons is a wholly owned subsidiary of Cancer Research UK, dedicated to advancing cancer research by translating innovative scientific discoveries into effective treatments and diagnostics. Operating at the interface between academic research and industry, Cancer Research Horizons accelerates the development of new cancer therapies and technologies.

Mission and Vision

• Mission: To bring together the brightest minds, boldest ideas, and best partners to fast-track scientific breakthroughs for patient benefit.

• Vision: To bring forward the day when all cancers are conquered.

Primary Area of Focus

Cancer Research Horizons focuses on the commercialization of cancer research, encompassing drug discovery, development, and the establishment of start-up companies to bring innovative cancer treatments to market.

Industry Significance

As the innovation arm of Cancer Research UK, Cancer Research Horizons plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between laboratory research and clinical application, significantly contributing to the global fight against cancer.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

• Accelerate the translation of cutting-edge scientific research into practical cancer treatments and diagnostics.

• Foster partnerships with industry leaders to enhance the development and commercialization of cancer therapies.

• Support the creation and growth of start-up companies focused on innovative cancer solutions.

Specific Areas of Specialization

• Drug discovery and development, including both small molecules and antibody-based therapies.

• Establishment and support of start-up companies in the oncology sector.

• Licensing and commercialization of cancer research innovations.

Key Technologies Utilized

• Advanced drug discovery platforms for target identification and validation.

• State-of-the-art preclinical and clinical development capabilities.

• Comprehensive translational funding and support mechanisms for start-ups.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

• Oncology, with a focus on various cancer types and stages.

• Global markets, leveraging partnerships and collaborations to expand reach.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

• Over £600 million in revenue generated from royalties and intellectual property.

• Over £3.45 billion raised by start-up companies within Cancer Research Horizons' portfolio.

Recent Funding Rounds

• In June 2022, the CRH Seed Fund was launched with an initial commitment of £15.5 million from Cancer Research UK, aiming to grow to £30 million.

Notable Investors

• Cancer Research UK, as the primary investor and founder.

• Various venture capital firms and institutional investors participating in start-up funding rounds.

Intended Utilization of Capital

• Support the development and commercialization of innovative cancer treatments.

• Provide early-stage capital and business development support to start-up companies.

• Enhance research capabilities and expand the portfolio of licensed technologies.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

• Capivasertib: A protein kinase B inhibitor for breast cancer patients resistant to existing therapies.

• Roginolisib: A treatment for metastatic uveal melanoma, granted FDA Orphan Drug status.

• IOA-289: An autotaxin inhibitor in Phase 1b trials for pancreatic cancer.

• ART4215: A Polθ inhibitor in Phase 2 trials combined with a PARP inhibitor for BRCA-deficient breast cancer.

Stages of Clinical Trials or Product Development

• Capivasertib: Phase 3 trials for breast cancer.

• Roginolisib: Early clinical development for metastatic uveal melanoma.

• IOA-289: Phase 1b trials for pancreatic cancer.

• ART4215: Phase 2 trials combined with a PARP inhibitor for BRCA-deficient breast cancer.

Target Conditions

• Breast cancer (Capivasertib).

• Metastatic uveal melanoma (Roginolisib).

• Pancreatic cancer (IOA-289).

• BRCA-deficient breast cancer (ART4215).

Relevant Timelines for Anticipated Milestones

• Capivasertib: Ongoing Phase 3 trials with results expected in the near future.

• Roginolisib: Early clinical development phase, with initial results anticipated within the next year.

• IOA-289: Phase 1b trial results expected in the coming months.

• ART4215: Phase 2 trial outcomes anticipated in the near future.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

• Advanced drug discovery platforms for target identification and validation.

• Comprehensive preclinical and clinical development capabilities.

• Translational funding and support mechanisms for start-ups.

Significant Scientific Methods

• Functional genomics and CRISPR screening for target identification.

• Therapeutic Catalyst funding scheme for novel project evaluation.

• Data Innovation Awards to support promising research initiatives.

Leadership Team

Executive Leadership Team

• Iain Foulkes: Chief Executive Officer.

• Hamish Ryder: Chief Executive Officer, Therapeutic Innovation.

• Tony Hickson: Chief Business Officer.

• Gillian Fairfield: General Counsel and Company Secretary.

Professional Backgrounds and Key Contributions

• Iain Foulkes: Leads Cancer Research Horizons, overseeing the translation of scientific research into patient benefits.

• Hamish Ryder: Heads Therapeutic Innovation, focusing on advancing novel cancer therapies.

• Tony Hickson: Manages business development and partnerships to enhance commercialization efforts.

• Gillian Fairfield: Provides legal guidance and ensures compliance across the organization.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

• The oncology sector is experiencing rapid growth, with increasing investments in cancer research and development.

• Advancements in personalized medicine and immunotherapy are driving innovation in cancer treatments.

Competitor Analysis

• Horizon Discovery: Specializes in gene editing and cell line development for cancer research.

• Nanobiotix: Focuses on nanomedicine to enhance radiotherapy effectiveness.

• Dxcover: Develops AI-driven liquid biopsy technologies for early cancer detection.

• Helix BioPharma Corp.: Engages in the discovery and development of novel cancer therapies.

• Guardant Health: Provides liquid biopsy tests for cancer detection and monitoring.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

• Collaborations with academic institutions like the Institute of Cancer Research and Newcastle University.

• Partnerships with pharmaceutical companies such as Astex Pharmaceuticals and AstraZeneca.

• Engagements with start-up accelerators and venture capital firms to support new ventures.

Operational Insights

• Cancer Research Horizons differentiates itself through its strong ties to Cancer Research UK, providing access to a vast network of researchers and resources.

• The organization’s focus on both drug discovery and start-up incubation allows for a comprehensive approach to cancer research commercialization.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Strategic Roadmap

• Expand the CRH Seed Fund to support a broader range of early-stage cancer research innovations.

• Enhance global partnerships to accelerate the development and distribution of new cancer therapies.

• Invest in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and personalized medicine to stay at the forefront of cancer research.