Genentech, a subsidiary of Roche, has announced the closure of its cancer immunology research department, merging it with molecular oncology research to form a unified cancer research entity. This reorganization will result in the departure of Ira Mellman, a prominent cell biologist who has been with the company for 17 years. The restructuring follows ongoing challenges in Genentech’s cancer immunotherapy efforts, particularly after the anti-TIGIT program tiragolumab faced multiple setbacks in clinical trials. The company cited this move as a strategic decision to better align with current scientific opportunities in the field of oncology.
The reorganization reflects broader changes within Roche and Genentech as the companies reassess their research pipelines. In April, Roche reported terminating 20% of its new molecular entities, while Genentech also laid off 436 employees, about 3% of its staff, across various departments. These shifts come as large pharmaceutical companies increasingly question the value of maintaining extensive early-stage research organizations like Genentech Research and Early Development (gRED), favoring more cost-efficient strategies such as acquiring assets from smaller biotech firms.
Ira Mellman, known for his pioneering work on endosomes and significant contributions to cancer immunology, played a key role in leading Genentech’s research into PD-1/L1 mechanisms and cell therapy. His leadership also steered important collaborations, including Roche’s partnership with BioNTech on mRNA personalized cancer vaccines. Mellman’s departure marks the end of an era for Genentech, as the company continues to navigate the evolving landscape of cancer research and drug development.
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