Valion Bio, Inc. (NASDAQ: VBIO) announced on October 5, 2026, the appointment of Thomas H. Jensen as the company's new Board Chair. In a press release filed as Exhibit 99.1 to an 8-K, Valion outlined Jensen's background and his perspective on the company's lead candidate, Entolimod.
Jensen brings more than 20 years of experience in biotechnology and oncology. He currently serves as CEO and a Director of Nasdaq-listed Allarity Therapeutics, Inc., where he led a strategic refocusing of the company around a single lead asset. Valion noted that Jensen appreciates the significance of Valion's transformation earlier in 2026.
Under Jensen's leadership at Allarity, the company simplified its capital structure, streamlined operations, and reduced costs while advancing its lead candidate, stenoparib. Jensen stated that he has rarely seen a company at Valion's stage with such a substantial scientific, clinical, and operational foundation.
Regarding Valion's lead program, Entolimod, Jensen highlighted the company's rare combination of factors. The program has received approximately $35.6 million in non-dilutive funding from U.S. government agencies and holds FDA Fast Track and Orphan Drug designations for acute radiation syndrome (ARS). Jensen noted that there is currently no FDA-approved treatment for gastrointestinal ARS.
Jensen also discussed the potential for Entolimod to address needs in cancer supportive care, a field aligned with his oncology background. He stated that he is working with Interim CEO Dean Zikria, President, COO and CFO Lisa Wolf, and the Board to align strategic priorities with execution.
Valion Bio is developing biologics that activate innate immune pathways. The company’s wholly owned subsidiary, Velocity Bioworks, provides development and manufacturing services to support the internal pipeline.
