Scientific Advisory Board

Carl Ware, Ph.D.

Dr. Ware (Director and Professor, Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases Center at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Institute) is recognized for his extensive research on the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) superfamily and its role in immune responses. Throughout his career, he has focused on unraveling the molecular mechanisms underlying TNF signaling and its impact on inflammation, cell survival, and immune regulation. Dr. Ware's studies have contributed to a better understanding of TNF receptor signaling pathways and their implications in various diseases, including cancer and autoimmune disorders. He is the discoverer of the LIGHT-signaling network and Avalo’s two lead compounds, AVTX-002 (anti-LIGHT mAb) and AVTX-008 (BTLA agonist fusion protein).

At the Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, Dr. Ware has held several prominent positions, including his current position of Director of the Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases Center. His work has resulted in numerous publications in prestigious scientific journals, earning him international recognition and numerous accolades for his scientific achievements. Dr. Ware's research has not only provided insights into fundamental immunological processes but also paved the way for the development of therapeutic interventions targeting TNF-related pathways.

Michael Croft, Ph.D.

Dr. Croft (Director, Academic Affairs and Professor, Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation at La Jolla Institute for Immunology) has made many significant contributions to the field of immunology, particularly in the area of T-cell biology. He has conducted pioneering research on the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) superfamily, focusing on understanding the functions and signaling pathways of these proteins in immune regulation, inflammation, and the immune response to cancer, including studies of LIGHT and its receptors and their potential contribution to several inflammatory diseases including asthma.

As a scientist at the La Jolla Institute for Immunology, Dr. Croft has made groundbreaking discoveries in the field of immune costimulatory/checkpoint molecules, including OX40, 4-1BB, LIGHT and others and their potential as therapeutic targets. His work has shed light on the mechanisms by which these molecules modulate T-cell responses and has paved the way for the development of novel immunotherapies for autoimmune and inflammatory disease and for cancer treatment. 

Dr. Croft's research findings have been widely published in top-tier scientific journals, and he has received numerous honors and awards for his contributions to immunology. His work continues to influence the field and holds promise for the development of new strategies to suppress chronic inflammatory diseases and enhance immune responses against cancer and infectious diseases.

Jeff Edelson, M.D.

Dr. Edelson greatly strengthens our clinical and scientific team.  He has conducted extensive research in the areas of lung biology, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies including asthma and other respiratory diseases. His work has focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying lung inflammation, asthma, COPD as well as identifying new therapeutic targets for lung disease and oncology. Through his research, he has made notable discoveries that have improved our understanding of lung biology and contributed to the development of innovative treatment strategies.  After a distinguished academic career, he has held a number of leadership positions in both large and small pharma including GSK, Aventis Pharma and J&J. In these roles, he has played a pivotal role in the development and clinical testing of several therapeutics. Dr. Edelson has extensive experience in the design and execution of clinical trials, evaluating the safety and efficacy of new drugs and treatment approaches.

Throughout his career, Dr. Edelson has been widely published in esteemed scientific journals, sharing his research findings and insights with the scientific community. He has also been actively involved in professional organizations and has served on advisory boards and committees related to basic research and drug development.