Silexion Therapeutics (NASDAQ: SLXN), a trailblazer in RNA interference (RNAi) therapies targeting KRAS-driven cancers, has announced the appointment of Prof. Amnon Peled to its Board of Directors. Prof. Peled, an internationally acclaimed authority in stem cell biology, immunology, and cancer therapeutics, brings decades of expertise in advancing novel cancer therapies from discovery to FDA approval. His addition signals Silexion’s commitment to scientific and strategic excellence as it continues its journey to redefine treatment options for some of the most challenging cancers.
A Strategic Appointment to Propel Innovation
The company highlighted the significance of Prof. Peled’s contributions to cancer biology and therapeutic development in their announcment. His extensive experience spans academic research, biotech innovation, and regulatory pathways, making him an ideal partner for Silexion’s ambitious goals. Prof. Peled’s expertise in cytokine biology, particularly the chemokine receptor CXCR4, has already led to transformative advancements in stem cell mobilization and cancer therapies.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Ilan Hadar, Chairman and CEO of Silexion, remarked:
“We are thrilled to welcome Prof. Peled to our Board of Directors. His unparalleled expertise in cancer biology, stem cell mobilization, and therapeutic development will be invaluable as Silexion continues to advance its pipeline of RNAi-based therapies for difficult-to-treat cancers. Prof. Peled’s track record in translating innovative science into impactful clinical outcomes aligns perfectly with our mission to address unmet needs in oncology.”
In response, Prof. Peled highlighted his optimism about Silexion’s potential:
“I am excited to join Silexion at such a pivotal time in its journey. The Company’s RNAi platform holds tremendous promise for addressing some of the most challenging oncology indications. I look forward to contributing my expertise to help advance Silexion’s innovative pipeline and drive meaningful impact for patients.”
Bolstering Leadership at a Critical Juncture
The addition of Prof. Peled comes at a critical moment for Silexion, which has rapidly emerged as a prominent player in the precision oncology space. The company’s innovative RNAi platform and next-generation siRNA therapies, including SIL-204 and LODER™, have shown promising results in preclinical and clinical trials targeting KRAS-driven cancers, particularly pancreatic cancer.
KRAS mutations, present in over 90% of pancreatic cancer cases, are notoriously resistant to conventional therapies. Silexion’s approach directly targets these mutations using RNA interference, a cutting-edge technology designed to silence the genes responsible for producing cancer-promoting proteins. By delivering siRNA directly to tumors, Silexion’s therapies aim to address the root causes of cancer with minimal harm to surrounding healthy tissues.
Progress with SIL-204 and LODER™
Silexion’s recent advancements underscore its strategic focus on RNAi technologies. SIL-204, the company’s next-generation siRNA therapy, has shown remarkable tumor reduction and necrosis in preclinical studies, particularly against the KRAS G12D mutation. The therapy’s extended-release formulation requires only a single administration, a significant improvement over earlier siRNA technologies that needed daily injections. Preclinical trials for colorectal cancer models are set to begin soon, with Phase 2/3 clinical trials for pancreatic cancer scheduled for 2026.
Complementing SIL-204 is LODER™, an RNAi-based therapy designed for patients with non-resectable locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC). Phase 2 trial data for LODER™ revealed a 56% objective response rate and a 67% increase in tumor resectability, offering new hope for patients who previously lacked surgical options. These findings validate Silexion’s oncogene silencing strategy and its potential to redefine treatment paradigms for KRAS-driven cancers.
Prof. Amnon Peled: A Legacy of Scientific Excellence
Prof. Peled’s appointment enhances Silexion’s scientific and strategic capabilities. As the Director of the Gene Therapy Institute at Hadassah Medical Center in Jerusalem, Prof. Peled has dedicated his career to advancing the understanding of cytokines and chemokines in cancer and inflammation. He has authored over 120 scientific publications and holds more than 200 patents, cementing his position as a leader in the field.
His achievements extend beyond academia. Prof. Peled has been instrumental in developing groundbreaking therapies, such as the CXCR4 antagonist BKT140/BL8040 and Gamida Cell’s NK and cord blood stem cell expansion technologies, both of which have achieved FDA approval. His collaborations with Israeli biotech companies, including Biokine Therapeutics, BiolineRX, and Gamida Cell, further highlight his ability to translate innovative science into impactful clinical outcomes.
A Vision for the Future of Precision Oncology
As Silexion prepares for its next phase of growth, Prof. Peled’s insights will be crucial in navigating the challenges of advancing RNAi-based therapies through clinical development and regulatory pathways. His role on key committees, including audit, compensation, and nominating and corporate governance, ensures that Silexion is well-positioned to meet its strategic and operational goals.
With a robust pipeline, groundbreaking technologies, and a strengthened leadership team, Silexion is poised to make a lasting impact in precision oncology. The appointment of Prof. Peled represents a significant step forward in the company’s mission to deliver innovative solutions for patients facing the most challenging cancers.
As the biotech industry continues to evolve, Silexion’s focus on addressing unmet needs in oncology sets it apart as a leader in RNAi therapeutics. With Prof. Peled’s expertise and guidance, the company is well-equipped to navigate the complexities of precision medicine and potentially bring transformative therapies to market.
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