Pacylex Pharmaceuticals Strengthens Board with Appointment of Michael J. Kamdar

Pacylex Pharmaceuticals Inc., a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company at the forefront of developing N-myristoyltransferase inhibitors (NMTis) for cancer treatment, has announced a significant addition to its leadership team. Michael J. Kamdar, an accomplished life science and healthcare executive with over 35 years of international experience, has joined the company's Board of Directors.

This appointment comes at a crucial time for Pacylex, as the company advances its innovative cancer therapies through clinical trials. Pacylex is currently the only clinical-stage pharmaceutical company developing NMTis as targeted therapies for hematologic cancers and as payloads for antibody drug conjugates (ADCs) in solid tumor cancers.

Mr. Kamdar's extensive background in the life sciences industry brings valuable expertise to Pacylex. With a track record of over $1.5 billion in business deals and more than $750 million raised from venture firms and public markets, Kamdar has been instrumental in the success of numerous notable companies in the sector. His experience includes leadership roles at Molecular Assemblies, Ciclofilin Pharmaceuticals, AeenaDx, VentiRx Pharmaceuticals, Tobira Therapeutics, Avalyn Pharmaceuticals, Anadys Pharmaceuticals, and Agouron Pharmaceuticals, several of which were acquired by pharmaceutical companies.

The addition of Kamdar to the board is expected to provide strategic guidance as Pacylex seeks to advance its lead drug, zelenirstat, through clinical development. Zelenirstat, the first and only clinically validated NMTi, has shown promise in early clinical trials. A Phase 1 study demonstrated an acceptable safety and tolerability profile, pharmacokinetics consistent with once-daily oral dosing, and early signs of efficacy in patients with relapsed/refractory lymphoma and refractory solid tumors.

Kamdar expressed enthusiasm about Pacylex's potential, stating, "I am particularly excited about oral zelenirstat and the platform of antibody drug conjugate (ADC) payloads that Pacylex has available, both of which have the potential to significantly improve therapeutic outcomes for oncology patients." His expertise in business development and fundraising is likely to be instrumental as Pacylex engages with potential investors and partners for its next stage of growth.

The significance of this appointment extends beyond Pacylex to the broader oncology landscape. As cancer remains a leading cause of death worldwide, the development of novel, targeted therapies is critical. Pacylex's focus on NMTis represents a unique approach in the field, with the potential to address unmet needs in both hematologic and solid tumor cancers.

The FDA has already recognized the potential of zelenirstat by granting it both Orphan Drug Designation and Fast Track Designation for Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). These designations could accelerate the development and review processes, potentially bringing this innovative treatment to patients sooner.

As Pacylex moves forward with its clinical programs, the addition of Kamdar to the board strengthens the company's position in the competitive pharmaceutical landscape. His experience in guiding companies through critical growth phases and navigating complex partnerships could prove invaluable as Pacylex seeks to translate its scientific innovations into clinical and commercial success.

The implications of Pacylex's work extend beyond individual patient outcomes to the broader field of oncology research and development. If successful, the company's approach to targeting N-myristoyltransferase could open new avenues for cancer treatment, potentially influencing future drug discovery efforts across the industry.

As the company progresses its clinical trials and explores partnerships, the oncology community will be watching closely. The success of Pacylex's programs could not only benefit patients but also contribute to the evolving landscape of personalized medicine in cancer care, offering new hope in the ongoing battle against this devastating disease.