Beyond Biotech - the podcast from Labiotech Reversing tumor immunosuppression with next-gen GPCR modulation
Mar 6, 2026
Sean MacDonald, biotech executive and CEO of Kinova Therapeutics with 20+ years in GPCR drug discovery. He discusses Kinova’s GPCR-modulating platform and clinical programs for reversing tumor immunosuppression and treating inflammation. Conversation covers the company rebrand, Series B funding, lead programs (anti-CCR8, PAR2, EP4), partnering strategy, and trends shaping oncology and drug discovery.
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From Micropipettes To CEO Through Business Development
- Sean MacDonald moved from wet lab interest to business after an MBA and early consulting, describing business development as a decathlete role.
- He worked across Montreal, Copenhagen and Belgium, including at Ablynx, then returned to Canada into CEO roles leading to Kinova.
Native GPCR Screening Unlocks New Therapeutic Areas
- Kinova repurposes a GPCR platform that works with native receptors to discover modulators rather than only antagonists.
- That capability lets them target nontraditional GPCR areas like immuno-oncology and inflammation using downstream signaling profiles.
Use Rebranding To Signal Strategic Transformation
- Rebrand to reflect strategic shifts: align name, logo and messaging with an internal rebuild and clinical focus.
- Kinova renamed to signal internationalization, clinical prioritization, and a new financing phase.