Theolytics Names Dr. Matilde Saggese As Chief Medical Officer To Strengthen Clinical Leadership

Theolytics, a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing next-generation oncolytic immunotherapies, has announced the appointment of Matilde Saggese, MD, as Chief Medical Officer. In her new role, Dr. Saggese will oversee clinical development and regulatory activities for Theolytics, including the advancement of the company’s lead asset, THEO-260. THEO-260 is currently being evaluated in clinical trials in the UK and the US, investigating two different routes of administration—intravenous (IV) and intraperitoneal (IP), respectively—in patients with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer.

David Apelian, Chief Executive Officer of Theolytics, welcomed Dr. Saggese to the company, emphasizing the importance of this appointment for Theolytics’ clinical-stage operations. He noted that her extensive expertise in medical oncology across all phases of clinical development will be instrumental in driving the clinical strategy for THEO-260, as well as shaping the company’s broader pipeline of oncolytic immunotherapies.

Dr. Saggese brings over 20 years of experience in the treatment of solid and hematological malignancies, having practiced at renowned institutions including Careggi University Hospital in Florence, Italy, the Royal Marsden Hospital, and the Sarah Cannon Research Institute in London, UK. Her research experience includes laboratory work at Cornell Medical Center and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York, as well as the UCL Cancer Institute in London.

In addition to her academic and clinical experience, Dr. Saggese has held significant industry roles, contributing to medical affairs and clinical development. She most recently served as Vice President of Clinical Development and Interim Chief Medical Officer at Achilles Therapeutics, where she led the development of novel cellular immune-oncology therapies. Her prior experience also includes positions at AstraZeneca, where she contributed to medical and clinical development programs.

Dr. Saggese holds a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (BMMS) from the Medical University of Pavia, Italy, completed a post-graduate School in Medical Oncology (CCT) at the Medical University of Florence, Italy, and earned an MD (Res) from the Cancer Institute, University College London, UK.

Commenting on her appointment, Dr. Saggese expressed enthusiasm for joining Theolytics and advancing its mission. She highlighted the high unmet medical need in ovarian cancer and noted that the differentiated profile of THEO-260 provides an opportunity to deliver meaningful benefits to patients. “I am excited to join the excellent team at Theolytics as we pursue a mission to develop innovative therapies that hold the promise of lasting cures for cancer patients. Ovarian cancer remains a disease with high unmet need, and with the differentiated profile of THEO-260, I believe we have an opportunity to make a meaningful difference for the many women suffering from this disease,” she said.

Through this strategic appointment, Theolytics strengthens its leadership in oncolytic immunotherapy development and positions the company to advance THEO-260 and its broader pipeline toward clinical and regulatory milestones.