TuHURA Taps J&J Oncology Vet to Drive VISTA Program
Event summary
- Craig Tendler, M.D., former Global Head of Oncology Clinical Development at Johnson & Johnson, will serve as TuHURA Biosciences’ de facto Chief Medical Officer (CMO) and remain on the Board of Directors.
- Tendler brings a track record of over 30 oncology regulatory approvals and significant experience with hematologic malignancies, including J&J’s menin inhibitor, bleximenib.
- He will focus on TuHURA’s VISTA inhibiting antibody, TBS-2025, for acute myeloid leukemia (AML), particularly in the NPM1 mutated subset.
- TuHURA acquired TBS-2025 in June 2025 through its merger with Kineta Inc.
- Preliminary FDA feedback has been received regarding the early development plan for TBS-2025.
The big picture
The appointment of a seasoned executive like Tendler signals TuHURA’s commitment to advancing its VISTA program, a critical area in immuno-oncology where resistance remains a significant hurdle. Tendler’s experience with J&J, particularly his involvement in the approval of blockbuster hematologic drugs and the development of bleximenib, provides TuHURA with valuable expertise as it seeks to capitalize on the growing market for targeted AML therapies. This move suggests a strategic focus on accelerating clinical trials and securing regulatory approvals for TBS-2025.
What we're watching
- Clinical Execution
- The success of TBS-2025 hinges on Tendler’s ability to navigate the regulatory pathway and accelerate clinical development, particularly given the complexity of AML and the need for combination therapies.
- FDA Engagement
- How closely TuHURA can collaborate with the FDA, building on initial feedback, will dictate the speed and efficiency of TBS-2025’s advancement.
- Competitive Landscape
- The emergence of other VISTA inhibitors and menin inhibitors will likely intensify competition and pressure TuHURA to demonstrate a differentiated clinical profile for TBS-2025.
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