Buzzard Pharmaceuticals
- Is developing a next-generation IL-1 inhibitor in cancer indications
- Our very potent IL1R1 inhibitor isunakinra has shown monotherapy effect in pre-clinical models as well as synergy with PD-1 inhibitors
- Phase 2A study ongoing: Currently we are expanding on very promising phase I dose escalation results with a study in microsatellite stable colorectal cancer that is kras mutated. Read the ongoing study here
- We have also shown preclinically that isunakinra has best effect in kras mutated tumors – see Non-Oncogene Addiction of KRAS-Mutant Cancers to IL-1β via Versican and Mononuclear IKKβ
- We are planning to start a study in neoadjuvant TNBC
Leadership Team
Maarten de Château
Maria Klockare
Chris Nowak
Hans Olivecrona
Pipeline - Why IL-1 matters in cancer
IL-1 is a master driver of chronic inflammation in cancer, shaping a tumor environment that suppresses immune responses and fuels tumor growth, invasion and metastasis. High IL-1 activity is consistently linked to poor prognosis across solid tumors.
Blocking IL-1 has been shown to reprogram the tumor microenvironment, reduce immune-suppressive cells and significantly enhance the effects of checkpoint inhibitors.
Isunakinra is a next-generation IL-1 blocker designed to shut down both IL-1α and IL-1β with high potency—now being tested in combination with PD-1 therapy in a clinical Phase I/II trial.
Words from our Board of Directors
At Buzzard Pharmaceuticals, we are not just developing medicines — we are redefining hope for patients worldwide. Our team’s dedication and innovative spirit reflect our commitment to bringing safe, life-changing therapies to those who need them most.
Carl-Johan Spak
Board member, Buzzard Pharmaceuticals