Carol C. Grundfest

Cell Genesys is a development-stage biotechnology firm focuses on gene-modification technologies to treat cancer. The company's lead product technology is its GVAX vaccine platform. Cell Genesys is working on GVAX vaccines for lung, prostate, and pancreatic cancer, as well as for leukemia and multiple myeloma, another blood cancer. Its oncolytic viral therapy platform uses specially engineered adenoviruses (such as the common cold) to kill cancer cells; the firm's lead candidate from this platform targets prostate cancer.

Systemix, Inc. develops cell-based gene therapies for diseases. The company is based in Palo Alto, CA. The company was founded by Irving L. Weissman, Leroy E. Hood. Systemix was acquired by Novartis AG on February 14, 1997 for $75.90 million.

Genetic Therapy, Inc. develops human gene therapy products for the treatment of genetic and acquired diseases. The company also conducts research on human gene development. Genetic Therapy was founded by M. James Barrett in May 1986 and is headquartered in Gaithersburg, MD.

Pharmaceutical Research & Manufacturers of America provides pharmaceutical research and biotechnology services. It represents the country’s biopharmaceutical research companies, which are devoted to discovering and developing medicines that enable patients to live longer, healthier, and more productive lives. The company was founded in 1958 and is headquartered Washington, DC.