Kumquat Biosciences Inc.

Kumquat Biosciences is an oncology drug developer based in San Diego, California. Kumquat Biosciences’ vision is to develop innovative therapies to bring about sustainable and life-changing benefits to cancer patients. We are committed to translate breakthrough science to innovative medicines by combining internal expertise in drug discovery and development, with external collaboration with academics. Kumquat brings together an accomplished management team with proven track record in discovering and developing innovative oncology medicines. The founding team has previously co-founded Intellikine, Araxes/Wellspring Biosciences and Kura Oncology. Kumquat Biosciences currently focuses on multiple first-in-class programs including targeted therapy as well as immunotherapy. Kumquat is funded by leading biotech venture investors as well as a pharmaceutical corporate venture.

The company applies expertise in the KRAS pathway to develop single and combination therapies aimed at targets considered undruggable, while also seeking to engage the immune system. Its work centers on small molecule drugs, which the company describes as offering simple delivery and limited side-effect risk, alongside targeted and immuno-oncology therapies intended to address relapse and drug resistance. The company states that its leadership team's earlier work includes the first treatment to demonstrate targeting of a KRAS oncoprotein once considered undruggable.

The company takes its name from the kumquat fruit, which symbolizes longevity, prosperity and good fortune in many cultures, and the founders chose it to embody the energy and unity of founding members who have worked together for more than fifteen years.