Fovero Therapeutics is an Australian preclinical-stage biotechnology company developing a novel class of immunotherapies that restore immune coordination in cancer and autoimmune disease. Founded in 2023, Fovero is commercializing discoveries from Associate Professor Michelle Wykes, whose research identified galectin-9 (GAL9) as a central regulator of immune suppression.
Fovero’s lead program, FT002, is a best-in-class anti-GAL9 antibody that reprograms the immunological synapse to enable durable anti-tumor responses. FT002 has demonstrated complete tumor clearance and long-term protection in preclinical models of microsatellite stable (MSS) colorectal and triple-negative breast cancers—tumors that typically fail to respond to current immunotherapies. A second program, FT024, applies this biology to restore immune balance in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.
Both programs are advancing toward IND-enabling studies, supported by non-dilutive funding from Australian and U.S. sources. Fovero’s platform represents a breakthrough in targeting immune dysfunction, with the potential to transform outcomes for patients who have no effective treatment options today.
Why work with us
Top Reasons to Choose Fovero Therapeutics
First-in-class GAL9-targeting platform
Fovero is the first company to develop immunotherapies that directly modulate galectin-9 (GAL9), a key regulator of immune synapse organization and function. GAL9 plays a central role in immune suppression across multiple disease contexts but has remained unexploited by other companies.
Best-in-class lead candidate (FT002)
Our lead antibody, FT002, demonstrates potent and durable anti-tumor responses by restoring immune coordination in tumors resistant to current therapies. It has shown greater efficacy and breadth than conventional checkpoint inhibitors in preclinical models.
Unique mechanism of action
Unlike PD-1/PD-L1 or CTLA-4 inhibitors, FT002 works by reorganizing immune cell receptors at the immunological synapse. This enables T cells and dendritic cells to overcome GAL9-mediated suppression, even in tumors with low immune infiltration (“cold” tumors).
Strong preclinical data
FT002 has shown compelling efficacy in models of microsatellite-stable (MSS) colorectal and triple-negative breast cancer; two indications with limited immunotherapy options. Supporting data reinforce its mechanism and potential for durable responses.
Translational and clinical readiness
IND-enabling studies for FT002 are in progress, and we have a clear timeline and regulatory path for entry into Phase 1 clinical trials in 2028.
Dual-disease platform
In addition to oncology, Fovero is advancing FT024, an anti-GAL9 antibody optimized for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. This expands our platform’s utility and positions us for success across both high-need therapeutic areas.
Scientific and strategic leadership
Fovero is led by the original discoverer of the GAL9 immune pathway and backed by a team with deep expertise in immunology, translational research, and drug development. Our leadership includes experienced biotech executives and clinical advisors.
Strong industry and academic partnerships
We collaborate with leading research institutes, CROs, and biotech alliances. Competitive grant funding and co-development opportunities have de-risked key preclinical milestones and enhanced validation.
Focused on unmet need
Our pipeline addresses cancers and immune disorders where current therapies are ineffective or inadequate, such as MSS CRC, TNBC, and steroid-resistant inflammation. By targeting diseases with poor outcomes, Fovero is positioned to make a significant clinical impact.
