Vaccinex (NASDAQ:VCNX) (NASDAQ:VCNX) is a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to developing novel antibody-based therapies that modulate the immune system for the treatment of cancer, neurodegenerative disorders and fibrotic diseases. Since its founding in 2000, Vaccinex has focused on translating scientific discoveries into therapeutic candidates by leveraging a deep understanding of the tumor microenvironment and immune signaling pathways. The company’s research centers on creating targeted biologics designed to inhibit key regulatory proteins that contribute to disease progression and impaired immune surveillance.
The company’s lead program, pepinemab (formerly VX15/2503), is a humanized monoclonal antibody against semaphorin 4D (SEMA4D), a protein implicated in tumor growth, metastasis and neuroinflammation. Pepinemab is being evaluated in both oncology indications—including metastatic solid tumors and head and neck cancers—and in neurodegenerative conditions such as Huntington’s disease. Vaccinex has completed several Phase 1 and Phase 2 clinical trials, demonstrating safety, tolerability and early signs of clinical benefit, and plans to advance pepinemab in multi-center pivotal studies.
Vaccinex’s proprietary Scorpion™ antibody platform enhances the affinity and functional activity of therapeutic antibodies by optimizing Fc receptor engagement and epitope targeting. This platform has yielded multiple preclinical candidates and supports the company’s ambition to build a diversified pipeline of immuno-modulatory agents. In addition to pepinemab, Vaccinex is advancing next-generation molecules against novel targets in fibrotic lung disease and other solid tumor settings, backed by robust in vivo and in vitro validation studies.
Headquartered in Rochester, New York, Vaccinex operates state-of-the-art research and development facilities and collaborates with academic institutions, contract research organizations and biotechnology partners worldwide. Under the leadership of President and CEO William Hearl, the company pursues strategic partnerships to accelerate clinical development and expand its global footprint. With a focus on rigorous science and patient-centric innovation, Vaccinex aims to bring transformative therapies to individuals affected by serious diseases.
