Tak Wah Mak

Tak Wah Mak, born on October fourth, nineteen forty-six, is a distinguished Canadian medical researcher, biochemist, oncologist, and university teacher. He is renowned for his groundbreaking discovery of the T-cell receptor in nineteen eighty-three, which significantly advanced the field of immunology.

In nineteen ninety-five, Mak published a pivotal paper detailing the function of the immune checkpoint protein CTLA-4. This discovery was instrumental in paving the way for immunotherapy and checkpoint inhibitors, revolutionizing cancer treatment and offering new hope to patients.

As the founder of Agios Pharmaceuticals, Mak has made significant contributions to cancer therapy. His leadership led to the development of IDHIFA®, the first drug specifically targeting cancer metabolism, which received FDA approval for acute myeloid leukemia in August twenty seventeen.

Throughout his career, Mak has explored various domains, including biochemistry, immunology, and cancer genetics, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in medical research.