Bonum Therapeutics Welcomes Samuel C. Blackman to Its Board
Bonum Therapeutics has made an exciting announcement regarding its leadership team. The biotechnology firm, recognized for harnessing innovative technology to create biologics that are both highly active and less toxic, proudly welcomes Samuel C. Blackman, MD, PhD, as the newest independent director on its Board of Directors.
Dr. Blackman’s Background and Expertise
Samuel Blackman is no stranger to the world of medicine and biotechnology. Trained as a pediatric neuro-oncologist, he co-founded Day One Biopharmaceuticals, a company committed to bringing targeted therapies to those battling life-threatening illnesses. Under his leadership, Day One successfully acquired and developed OJEMDA™, which gained FDA approval to treat the most common childhood brain tumor, low-grade glioma.
Comments from the Company Leadership
John Mulligan, PhD, founder and CEO of Bonum Therapeutics, expressed enthusiasm about Blackman's addition to the team. "We are delighted to welcome Sam Blackman to the Bonum Therapeutics team. His judgment and deep experience in the clinical development of novel immune-oncology agents will undeniably benefit Bonum and the patients we seek to serve," he stated. Mulligan emphasized Blackman’s extensive background in developing innovative therapies aimed at treating both pediatric and adult cancers across various indications.
Vision for the Future
Dr. Blackman conveyed his excitement about joining Bonum Therapeutics. "I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to join the Bonum Therapeutics board of directors as Bonum advances its programs into the clinic," he mentioned. He emphasized the importance of developing inclusive therapeutics to fill existing gaps in both activity and safety for patients with severe diseases. Blackman’s appreciation for Bonum’s science, mission, and culture highlights his commitment to help drive the company forward.
Professional Journey of Dr. Blackman
Before establishing Day One in 2018, Blackman held influential roles at major pharmaceutical companies, including Merck and GlaxoSmithKline, along with positions at Seattle Genetics, Juno Therapeutics, and Silverback Therapeutics. His most recent role was as head of clinical development at Mavupharma, a pioneering drug discovery company focused on leveraging the immune system to combat cancer and infectious diseases. He also serves on the board of directors for Presage Biosciences.
About Bonum Therapeutics
Bonum Therapeutics is on a mission to revolutionize the field of biotechnology. This privately held company leverages a unique, antibody-based approach to develop regulated, targeted, and less toxic medications. Its most advanced program is currently in preclinical development. Founded in 2022 as a spinout of Good Therapeutics, Bonum emerged following the impressive sale of Good to Roche.
Innovative Therapeutic Mechanisms
The core technology at Bonum combines a sensor component targeting specific biological markers with a therapeutic component. This innovative design ensures that when the sensor attaches to its target, the therapeutic agent activates only where it is needed. This technology holds promise across various therapeutic areas, such as oncology, autoimmunity, metabolic disorders, and pain management. Presently, Bonum’s initial efforts focus on regulated immunocytokines while exploring further applications through partnerships.
Investments and Future Directions
Backing Bonum Therapeutics is a robust group of leading venture investors, which includes Rivervest Venture Partners, Roche Venture Fund, Digitalis Ventures, American Century Investments, Codon Capital, and Vivo Capital. Their support reflects confidence in Bonum's vision and capacity to achieve significant milestones in therapeutics development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Samuel C. Blackman?
Samuel C. Blackman is a pediatric neuro-oncologist, co-founder of Day One Biopharmaceuticals, and now serves on the board of Bonum Therapeutics.
What does Bonum Therapeutics do?
Bonum Therapeutics is focused on developing innovative biologics that are highly active and less toxic using a unique antibody-based mechanism.
When was Bonum Therapeutics founded?
Bonum Therapeutics was founded in 2022 as a spinout from Good Therapeutics.
What is OJEMDA™?
OJEMDA™ is a therapy approved by the FDA for treating low-grade glioma, a common brain tumor in children, developed by Day One Biopharmaceuticals.
Who are Bonum Therapeutics' major investors?
Bonum is backed by several leading venture investors, including Roche Venture Fund and Digitalis Ventures, highlighting significant industry confidence.
