Dr. Vignali is a leader in cancer immunotherapy whose research focuses on understanding how the immune system is suppressed in cancer with the goal of identifying novel therapeutic targets and optimizing immunotherapy combinations to improve patient outcomes.
His laboratory’s work on LAG-3, an immune checkpoint that suppresses cancer-killing T cell function by contributing to T cell exhaustion, demonstrated that blocking both LAG-3 and another checkpoint, PD-1, produces synergistic anti-tumor effects. This discovery was the scientific foundation for the commercialization of a combination therapy now used to treat metastatic melanoma in the clinic.
His lab is also focused on identifying novel therapeutic targets, including IL-35 and neuropilin-1, that selectively suppress tumor-promoting regulatory T cells (Tregs) while preserving normal immune function.
As co-founder of four biotechnology companies developing cancer immunotherapies, including UPMC Enterprises portfolio company Novasenta, Dr. Vignali bridges basic science and clinical application. He has published more than 250 papers, has made Clarivate’s Highly Cited Researchers list, which recognizes highly influential scientists, every year since 2016, and is an American Association of Immunologists Distinguished Fellow.
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