Merck Serono creates new immuno-oncology platform

Merck Serono has strengthened its cancer research capabilities with the creation of a fully dedicated immuno-oncology innovation platform.

Integrating research, early development and biomarker strategies, it will be focused on the development of new therapies that utilise the immune system's natural ability to combat tumours.

The goal of this initiative is to spearhead the creation of immunotherapies that can work in combination with other therapeutic modalities to maximise patient outcomes, with an in-house team of preeminent researchers and clinicians having been assembled.

Research will focus on three key areas of innovations – therapeutic cancer vaccines, cancer stem cells and immunotolerance.

Helen Sabzevari, head of immuno-oncology and global research and early development at Merck Serono, said: "We are committed to delivering on the promise of immuno-oncology by combining creative thinking with strong research and clinical excellence, and more importantly by keeping patient needs at the heart of our efforts."

This comes after the company agreed a five-year clinical development alliance with contract research organisation Quintiles last month.