Xilio Therapeutics (NASDAQ:XLO) is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery and development of targeted immunotherapies for cancer. Leveraging proprietary protein engineering technologies, Xilio seeks to enhance the therapeutic window of potent immunomodulators by confining their activity to the tumor microenvironment. The company’s mission is to deliver next-generation cytokine and antibody-based therapies that improve efficacy while reducing systemic toxicity.
At the core of Xilio’s approach is its Cytokine Prodrug Platform, which utilizes tumor-activated cytokine prodrugs designed to remain inert in circulation and become active only upon reaching the tumor. Lead candidates include XTX-401, an interleukin-12 (IL-12) prodrug for solid tumors, and XTX-104, a tumor-localized tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) agent. In parallel, Xilio is advancing a Dual Immunomodulator Platform that enables bispecific and multispecific biologics to engage complementary immune pathways, with programs directed against key immune checkpoints and co-stimulatory targets.
Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Xilio Therapeutics has rapidly built a robust pipeline and established a presence in major oncology hubs across North America and Europe. The company’s research and early development operations draw on collaborations with academic institutions and translational science centers, while its clinical programs span multiple countries to facilitate global patient access. Xilio completed its initial public offering in 2020 and maintains a network of strategic partnerships to support clinical advancement and regulatory pathways.
Leadership at Xilio combines deep expertise in immuno-oncology, biologics engineering and pharmaceutical development. King Sheng, Ph.D., serves as Chief Executive Officer, bringing extensive experience in protein therapy innovation and oncology drug development. The management team includes seasoned executives in clinical research, regulatory affairs and manufacturing scale-up, all dedicated to advancing Xilio’s novel therapeutic candidates toward regulatory approval and commercial readiness.
