Genentech Closes Cancer Immunology Unit as Part of Broader R&D Restructuring

Closure of Cancer Immunology Unit:
Genentech is shutting down its cancer immunology group as part of a broader effort to reprioritize its research and development (R&D) investments in cancer research.

Parent Company Restructuring:
This move comes as Genentech’s parent company, Roche, restructures its cancer business, which has included discontinuing three early-stage oncology candidates and terminating a T-cell partnership with Adaptimmune.

Merging R&D Activities:
Genentech will merge its cancer immunology R&D activities with its molecular oncology programs to create a single, broader cancer research effort.

Leadership Changes:
Ira Mellman, Vice President of Cancer Immunology, will step down from his post as a result of the restructuring.

Recent Developments:
Roche has reported mixed results in its cancer research, including disappointing Phase II/III data for its anti-TIGIT antibody tiragolumab in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and approvals for Alecensa (alectinib) for adjuvant use in early-stage ALK-positive NSCLC and Columvi (glofitamab) in lymphoma.