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  • January 2023
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Cleave Therapeutics: Taking a Risk on Oncology Drug Discovery

By: Regina Herzlinger and Brian Walker
  • Format:Print
  • | Language:English
  • | Pages:24
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Abstract

How can a successful executive assess her next move as the CEO of a firm with a promising and yet uncertain new drug? Amy Burroughs’ mandate to find a therapeutic window for Cleave Therapeutics oncology drug was on track but faced an uncertain future. Overseeing the human trials of a refined second-generation drug candidate, Amy had led the company back from the “valley of death” after Cleave’s initial offering resulted in off-target toxicity. Still, after completing multiple dose escalation cohorts, Cleave’s scientists told Amy that they could not draw any definitive conclusions about the benefits of the drug. Amy and her team knew the importance of speed and capital in the high-risk business of oncology drug development where success often takes more resources and time than expected and competitors lurk. Nearing the close of a five-year investment window, should the thinly staffed Cleave 2.0 continue to recruit patients and clear dosing cohorts at a rapid rate, or should Amy prioritize funding and partnership discussions?

Keywords

Product Development; Leadership; Health Testing and Trials; Research and Development; Risk and Uncertainty; Financial Condition; Partners and Partnerships; Pharmaceutical Industry

Citation

Herzlinger, Regina, and Brian Walker. "Cleave Therapeutics: Taking a Risk on Oncology Drug Discovery." Harvard Business School Case 323-045, January 2023.
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About The Author

Regina E. Herzlinger

General Management
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