OXFORD, England – Nucleome Therapeutics, a company pioneering a modern approach to understanding inflammatory diseases through 3D human genetics, has announced the appointment of Dr. Michelle Morrow as its Chief Scientific Officer (CSO), effective February 23, 2026. This strategic hire signals growing momentum for Nucleome, particularly following the recent nomination of NTP464, its lead preclinical development candidate, for IND-enabling studies.
Dr. Morrow brings over two decades of experience in drug discovery and development, encompassing both biotechnology and large pharmaceutical companies. Her expertise is expected to be instrumental as Nucleome advances its pipeline of genetically validated therapeutics. The company’s innovative platform aims to uncover the molecular causes of inflammatory conditions, offering potential for novel treatment strategies.
Dr. Morrow’s Extensive Background
Most recently, Dr. Morrow served as CSO at Avacta Therapeutics, where she spearheaded the discovery and preclinical research efforts for the company’s oncology program, successfully guiding a candidate through selection and into Investigational New Drug (IND) approval. Prior to Avacta, she held leadership positions at invoX Therapeutics Innovation, following its acquisition of F-star Therapeutics, and at MedImmune (now AstraZeneca). Her academic foundation includes a PhD in Immunology from the University of Cambridge and postdoctoral research in childhood leukemia at the Institute of Child Health, London.
“We warmly welcome Michelle to Nucleome,” said Dr. Mark Bodmer, Chief Executive Officer at Nucleome Therapeutics. “She brings a wealth of experience in advancing drug discovery candidates through the clinical pathway. Her deep expertise in immunology and bispecific antibody therapeutics will be critical as Nucleome accelerates its ambition to tackle the molecular causes of inflammatory disease. Michelle is recognised for translating complex scientific and development considerations into clear, actionable insights that will strengthen decision-making across our portfolio and she will be a valuable member of our leadership team.”
Dr. Morrow herself expressed enthusiasm about joining Nucleome at this pivotal stage. “I am joining Nucleome at a pivotal stage in its growth, as the Company translates unique insights from the non-coding genome into a differentiated pipeline of potential new medicines for patients with inflammatory disease,” she stated. “Nucleome’s ability to access previously untapped biology creates a powerful opportunity to deliver first-in-class immunomodulatory therapies, and I am eager to work with the team to advance these programmes towards the clinic and ultimately bring meaningful impact to patients’ lives.”
Unlocking the Secrets of the Non-Coding Genome
Nucleome’s approach centers on a powerful 3D genomics platform designed to identify the molecular drivers of inflammatory disease through human genetics. The company’s technology allows for the identification of functional variants within the non-coding genome – the portion of DNA that doesn’t code for proteins – and the genes they regulate. This capability, according to Nucleome, enables the discovery of novel targets and disease mechanisms that have previously remained elusive. Their lead candidate, NTP464, is a novel monoclonal agonist antibody currently progressing towards IND enabling studies, offering a new approach to treating inflammatory diseases.
Nucleome has established a comprehensive data atlas of immune system dysregulation, identified through human disease genetics. This allows the company to understand the mechanistic basis of disease, pinpoint hundreds of potential therapeutic targets, and categorize patients based on shared disease drivers. The company is backed by a syndicate of investors including M Ventures, Johnson & Johnson Innovation – JJDC, Inc. (“JJDC”), Pfizer Ventures, British Business Bank, and founding investor Oxford Science Enterprises, as detailed on their website.
The company’s 3D genomics platform has been described as solving a fundamental challenge in discovering molecular drivers of inflammatory disease from human genetics. This allows Nucleome to identify functional variants in the non-coding genome and the genes they control, enabling the discovery of novel targets and disease mechanisms.
As Nucleome continues to translate its unique genomic insights into a pipeline of potential new medicines, the appointment of Dr. Morrow signifies a commitment to accelerating the development of innovative therapies for patients with inflammatory diseases. The progress of NTP464 through IND-enabling studies will be a key focus, alongside the continued expansion of the company’s genetically identified therapeutic pipeline.
Disclaimer: This article provides information for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
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