Syndax bypasses the lengthy initial lab phase by in-licensing promising science from external sources. This allows their internal experts to focus directly on clinical development in areas of high unmet medical need, a key strategy behind getting two drug approvals in two years.
Syndax validates its medicines by first seeking approval for "relapse refractory disease"—patients who have not responded to other treatments. Succeeding in this "hardest test" provides a powerful signal that the drug is truly impactful, which can de-risk subsequent development for broader patient populations.
Instead of waiting years for separate pediatric studies, Syndax integrated children into its initial adult clinical trials. This highly unusual approach, combined with creating child-friendly formulations, enabled them to bring novel medicines to both adults and children simultaneously, addressing a critical need much faster.
CEO Michael Metzger views the high-risk, capital-intensive clinical development phase as a "project" focused on investment and milestones. The organization only transitions into a "business" at the key turning point of drug approval and commercial launch. This mental model helps manage resources and expectations through the long, uncertain pre-commercial journey.