NeOnc Technologies, a USC-licensed biotech startup, has reached a major milestone with its listing on Nasdaq. The company, founded by neurosurgeon Dr. Thomas Chen of Keck Medicine of USC, specializes in an intranasal drug delivery system for treating brain tumors. To mark the occasion, NeOnc and the USC Stevens Center for Innovation rang the Nasdaq opening bell on March 26.

In a significant expansion move, NeOnc has partnered with CBCC Global Research to launch clinical trials across 30 FDA-compliant sites in India. This collaboration aims to accelerate the development of NEO100, a promising drug designed to treat malignant gliomas, including glioblastoma, the most aggressive form of brain cancer. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, NEO100 is inhaled through the nose, bypassing the blood-brain barrier and delivering treatment directly to the brain.

With phase 2 clinical trials underway, the company is increasing patient enrollment to fast-track global approvals. Co-founder Amir Heshmatpour emphasized that this expansion will boost patient recruitment, ensure regulatory compliance, and speed up treatment accessibility.

Beyond glioblastoma, NeOnc aims to explore new applications for its technology, including pediatric brain tumors, metastatic brain cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. With its innovative approach, NeOnc is paving the way for groundbreaking advancements in neuro-oncology.