Science

Pioneering a new class of small molecule precision cancer therapies that target RNA-modifying proteins and strategic adjacencies

Accent is leading the translation of RNA-modifying protein (RMP) biology into promising new therapies by combining a robust chemical biology platform with rigorous approaches to target identification and validation. Our seasoned team of drug developers is uniquely experienced to interrogate and advance small molecule therapies with far-reaching potential.

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Our approach builds on the compelling and growing body of evidence linking RMPs to cancer pathobiology.

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We are developing small molecule therapies that selectively inhibit RMPs that drive certain cancers.

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RMPs offer a rich source of targets to drive a long-term portfolio of innovative therapies.

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Pipeline

Our high-impact portfolio contains programs across multiple oncology targets to address significant unmet needs

Accent has systematically mapped the RMP space to fuel a pipeline of transformative precision small molecule candidates.

Image depicting product pipeline, with one row for each of the three programs and five columns to convey program, example indications, and status of the program.Image depicting product pipeline, with one row for each of the three programs and five columns to convey program, example indications, and status of the program.

About DHX9

Accent’s lead program is a first-in-class DHX9 inhibitor with the potential to address high unmet need indications that lack targeted therapies, including high microsatellite instable (MSI-H) cancers. This program is advancing rapidly, with a drug candidate nomination expected in the second half of 2023. DHX9 is an RNA helicase that has been reported to play important roles in replication, transcription, translation, RNA splicing, RNA processing, and maintenance of genomic stability. Overexpression of DHX9 is observed in multiple cancer types making this helicase a compelling novel oncology target.

About ADAR1

Accent is developing ADAR1 targeted therapies to address many solid tumor indications with significant unmet need as monotherapy, including non-small cell lung cancer, triple-negative breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. Data also suggests that small molecule inhibitors of ADAR1 have further potential to combine well with checkpoint inhibitors, to treat PD1 and PD-L1 relapse/refractory tumors.

In tumor cells with higher IFN signaling, small molecule inhibitors of ADAR1 induce selective cell killing and immune sensitization, making it a highly attractive target for monotherapy and in combination with immuno-oncology therapy.

Team

Dedicated experts with proven track records

Our team shares an unwavering commitment to improving health outcomes for patients with cancer and a proven track record of accomplishment. Collectively, we have contributed to more than 45 investigational new drug applications and advanced 16 FDA-approved drugs.

Stephen Blakemore, PhD

Vice President, Biological & Translational Sciences

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David Brower

Chief Business Officer

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Ann Boriack-Sjodin, PhD

Senior Vice President, Molecular Discovery

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Robert Copeland, PhD

President, Founder, Chief Scientific Officer

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Kenneth Duncan, PhD

Vice President, Chemistry

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Steve Mennen

Vice President, Pre-Clinical Development

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Shakti Narayan, PhD, JD

Chief Executive Officer

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Serena Silver, PhD

Vice President, Biology

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Jacqueline Wheeler

Senior Manager, Operations & Administration

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About us

Accent is building a highly collaborative team of experienced drug developers, all keenly focused on driving the translation of extraordinary science to life-changing therapies for patients.

Our people are Accent. Their rigor2, patient focus, resolute purpose, adventurous spirits, and contagious enthusiasm are what drive us forward.

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News

The latest Accent news and presentations

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4.16.23

Accent Therapeutics Presents Data Supporting DHX9 Inhibition as a Novel Therapeutic Modality at American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting 2023

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4.16.23

Accent Presents: "Targeting DHX9 Inhibition as a Novel Therapeutic Modality in Microsatellite Instable Colorectal Cancer" (AACR 2023)

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Join Us

Join us in our mission to develop life-changing therapies for patients

We are looking for driven, creative individuals to accentuate our team. Learn more about our values and the benefits of a career at Accent Therapeutics! For more information or to apply, please contact HR@accenttx.com.

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Contact

For more information:

For general inquiries:
contactus@accenttx.com
For general inquiries:
collaborations@accenttx.com