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Manel Cascalló, a Barcelona native born in 1972, is a leading figure in Catalonia’s biotechnological landscape. This scientist, after years of developing oncolytic viruses for cancer treatment, has successfully secured the acquisition of his treatment by a publicly traded American firm, thus securing funding for the costly clinical trials essential for market entry. This achievement exemplifies the caliber of local research emanating from the Institut Català d’Oncologia (ICO).
The acquisition was announced in mid-December. Synthetic Biologics, a New York Stock Exchange-listed company, paid €66 million to acquire VCN Biosciences, the developer of the treatment. For several years, VCN Biosciences was 86% owned by Grifols, a Catalan multinational specializing in blood products. Cascalló states, “We are pleased with the outcome. Two years ago, we sought a change in ownership because Grifols’ strategic direction no longer aligned with ours, and we required significant capital to proceed. For me, this deal also signifies a vote of confidence after years of dedication to this project.”
Synthetic Biologics to Invest €30 Million in Patient Trials for Cancer-Fighting Virus
Cascalló’s journey embodies the dedication of a passionate scientist who has overcome the inherent frustrations of research. His fascination with science began in childhood. Unlike his family’s history of running a renowned tailor shop which catered to Barcelona’s high society in the Eixample Dret, he was not destined for the fashion world. As the youngest of five siblings, he considered both science and music as a young man, ultimately choosing to study Chemistry at the University of Barcelona. His academic path led him to specialize in molecular biology, focusing on cancer research. He honed his expertise in the United States
