Shows
Xtalks Life Science PodcastHow Public-Private Partnerships Are Advancing Biomedical Research with FNIH’s Dr. Stacey AdamIn this week’s episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, host Ayesha Rashid, Senior Life Science Journalist at Xtalks, spoke with Stacey Adam, PhD, Vice President at the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (FNIH), where she leads major public-private partnerships, including RECOVER-Treating Long COVID, the Biomarkers Consortium and several Accelerating Medicines Partnerships including the Partnership For Accelerating Cancer Therapies (PACT) and the Lung-MAP trial.
Dr. Adam also helps design new collaborations in areas such as pediatric medical devices, cancer systems biology and new approach methodologies.
Prior to FNIH, Dr. Adam worked in De...
2026-01-1451 minXtalks Life Science PodcastTargeting Inflammation in Eye Diseases with Iolyx Therapeutics’ CEO Elizabeth JeffordsIn this week’s episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, host Ayesha Rashid, Senior Life Science Journalist at Xtalks, spoke with Elizabeth Jeffords, CEO, Iolyx Therapeutics, which is developing targeted therapies to address inflammation in ocular disease.
Elizabeth is a seasoned biotech leader with experience spanning company building, fundraising, clinical development, major product launches and a >$9 billion global P&L.
Before Iolyx, she served as Chief Commercial & Strategy Officer at Alkahest and held leadership roles at Genentech and Roche. An angel investor with Portfolia, she serves on several boards, including the boards of Iolyx, As...
2026-01-0736 minXtalks Life Science PodcastPioneering Biosensors for Continuous Medical Monitoring with Profusa CEO Dr. Ben HwangIn this week’s episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, host Ayesha Rashid, Senior Life Science Journalist at Xtalks, spoke with Ben Hwang, PhD, Chairman and CEO of Profusa, Inc., a company developing a platform of new generation bioengineered, biointegrated sensors for the real-time, continuous monitoring of body chemistry for chronic disease management and health.
The sensors detect and continuously transmit medical-grade data for personal and medical use.
Dr. Hwang has served as Profusa’s Chairman of the Board and CEO since January 2012. Prior to Profusa, Dr. Hwang served in a variety of leadership role...
2025-12-1047 minXtalks Life Science PodcastThe Biology of Aging: Innovations in Cellular Rejuvenation with Life Biosciences’ Dr. Sharon Rosenzweig-LipsonIn this week’s episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, host Ayesha Rashid, Senior Life Science Journalist at Xtalks, spoke with Sharon Rosenzweig-Lipson, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) at Life Biosciences, a company advancing cellular rejuvenation gene therapies to treat age-related diseases.
The company is targeting eye diseases like glaucoma and non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION).
Dr. Rosenzweig-Lipson has held leadership positions in both big pharma and small biotechnology companies over the course of her 30+ year career, which has included roles at American Cyanamid (now Pfizer), advancing programs from the early exploratory phase th...
2025-12-0332 minXtalks Life Science PodcastThe Evolving Landscape of Respiratory and Immunology Drug Development with AstraZeneca’s Dr. Andrew Menzies-GowIn this week’s episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, host Ayesha Rashid, Senior Life Science Journalist at Xtalks, spoke with Andrew Menzies-Gow, MBBS, PhD, Vice President Respiratory & Immunology, Global Biopharmaceuticals Medical, AstraZeneca, about innovations in respiratory and immunology drug development.
Dr. Menzies-Gow is an expert in respiratory biologics and severe asthma research with a prolific career in respiratory medicine, combining his background as a practicing clinician with strategic leadership to advance innovative therapies that address some of the greatest unmet needs in the field.
Under his leadership at AstraZeneca, the company has delivered gr...
2025-11-2638 minXtalks Life Science PodcastRestoring Lost Synapses in ALS, Fragile X and More with Spinogenix’s Dr. Peter VanderklishIn this week’s episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, host Ayesha Rashid, Senior Life Science Journalist at Xtalks, spoke with Peter Vanderklish, PhD, chief scientific officer at Spinogenix, a company developing therapeutics aimed at restoring synaptic connections for conditions such as ALS, Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia and Fragile X syndrome.
Dr. Vanderklish’s decades of research, from his graduate work at UC Irvine to his roles at The Scripps Research Institute and UC Irvine, have helped shape our understanding of synaptic function, including post-synaptic long-term potentiation (LTP) mechanisms and the role of integrins in stabilizing synapt...
2025-11-1930 minXtalks Life Science PodcastTargeting Protein Misfolding and Innovations in Hepatobiliary Disease with Rectify Pharma’s Dr. Pol BoudesIn this week’s episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, host Ayesha Rashid, Senior Life Science Journalist at Xtalks, spoke with Pol Boudes, MD, Chief Medical Officer at Rectify Pharma.
Rectify Pharma is a biotechnology company pioneering a positive functional modulators (PFM) platform to address the root causes of genetic and protein folding diseases in the liver, cardio-renal-metabolic and neurodegenerative spaces. The company’s lead program is in hepatobiliary diseases.
Dr. Boudes has more than 30 years of R&D, clinical, medical affairs and biotech leadership experience. He is a board-certified physician in endocrinology and meta...
2025-11-1139 minXtalks Life Science PodcastAdvancing Rare Disease Treatment and Care with Takeda’s Dr. Mike DenneIn this week’s episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, host Ayesha Rashid, Senior Life Science Journalist at Xtalks, spoke with Mike Denne, PharmD, Vice President of US Medical Affairs for Rare Disease and Plasma Derived Therapies at Takeda, to discuss the company’s approach to advancing patient care in the area of rare diseases through medical innovation and collaboration.
With over 15 years of leadership experience in medical affairs, Dr. Denne shares his insights on building effective and successful medical teams, including supporting healthcare providers and improving access to therapies for rare disease communities.
His...
2025-11-0535 minXtalks Life Science PodcastAdvancing Innovations for Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease with Lexicon Pharmaceuticals’ CEO Mike ExtonIn this week’s episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, host Ayesha Rashid, Senior Life Science Journalist at Xtalks.com, welcomes Mike Exton, PhD, CEO of Lexicon Pharmaceuticals, for a conversation about leveraging gene science to develop innovative medicines for serious chronic conditions.
Dr. Exton discusses Lexicon’s growing pipeline, which includes promising therapies for diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and other cardiometabolic diseases, areas where unmet need remains high despite decades of research.
He also shares insights from his extensive leadership experience across the pharmaceutical industry, including his time as Cardiometabolism Therapeutic Head...
2025-10-2931 minXtalks Life Science PodcastAt the Heart of Gene Therapy: Lexeo’s R. Nolan Townsend on Genetic Medicines for Cardiovascular Diseases and MoreIn this week’s episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, host Ayesha Rashid, Senior Life Science Journalist at Xtalks.com, spoke with R. Nolan Townsend, MBA, CEO of Lexeo Therapeutics, a company developing gene therapies for cardiovascular diseases as well as CNS disorders including Alzheimer’s disease.
Lexeo recently announced a partnership to advance cardiac RNA therapeutics as well as $80 million in equity financing.
Mr. Townsend has been CEO of Lexeo Therapeutics since 2020. He previously held senior leadership roles at Pfizer, including President of Rare Disease for both North America and International markets, and bega...
2025-10-2242 minXtalks Life Science PodcastTeaching the Pancreas to Heal Itself: Dr. Juan Domínguez-Bendala on Regenerative Diabetes ResearchIn this week’s episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, host Ayesha Rashid, Senior Life Science Journalist at Xtalks.com, spoke with Juan Domínguez-Bendala, PhD, Director of Stem Cell and Pancreatic Regeneration Programs, Diabetes Research Institute (DRI) at the University of Miami, to discuss his research team’s new research published in Nature Communications that could redefine diabetes treatment.
Dr. Domínguez-Bendala team’s study reveals how THR-123, a small peptide, can trigger the regeneration of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, effectively restoring normal blood sugar levels in preclinical models. The discovery opens the door to...
2025-10-1538 minXtalks Life Science PodcastFrom Lab to Launch: Spinning out Biotech Innovation with RBL’s Dr. Paul WottonIn this week’s episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, host Ayesha Rashid, Senior Life Science Journalist at Xtalks.com, sits down with Paul Wotton, PhD, CEO of RBL LLC, a venture studio partially owned by Rice University.
RBL’s mission is to transform groundbreaking research from the Rice Biotech LaunchPad into successful biotech startups. The company provides end-to-end support for early-stage ventures, from financial and business development services to clinical trial design, talent acquisition and capital sourcing.
Dr. Wotton shares insights from his extensive leadership and entrepreneurship career, including his time as president and...
2025-10-0835 minXtalks Life Science PodcastExploring the Future of Cannabinoid & Psychedelic Therapies with Joel Latham of Incannex HealthcareIn this episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, Senior Life Science Journalist Ayesha Rashid speaks with Joel Latham, CEO, president and director of Incannex Healthcare, to discuss how the company is advancing cannabinoid and psychedelic therapies for chronic conditions like sleep apnea, rheumatoid arthritis and anxiety disorders.
Joel has more than 20 years of senior management and operations experience in both public and private sectors. Under Joel’s leadership, Incannex has advanced and prioritized multiple therapeutic candidates into clinical-stage development. Previously, he was the CEO and Managing Director of Incannex Australia, where he played a key role in...
2025-09-3031 minXtalks Life Science PodcastDriving Innovation in Oncology: Insights from Jeff Glazier of General OncologyIn this episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, host Ayesha Rashid, speaks with Jeff Glazier, CEO and founding member of General Oncology. General Oncology is focused on advancing innovative therapies that address some of the greatest unmet needs in oncology.
At General Oncology, Jeff has overseen everything from corporate strategy and clinical trial site selection to IP protection and IT infrastructure. He stepped into the role of CEO in August 2024, bringing a vision for translating cutting-edge science into meaningful treatments for patients.
Previously, Jeff co-founded the healthcare technology company ProviderTech LLC and worked as...
2025-09-2433 minXtalks Life Science PodcastThe Next Generation of Cell Therapy with Cartherics’ COO Dr. Ian NisbetIn this episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, we dive into the cutting edge of cell therapy innovation with Ian Nisbet, PhD, chief operating officer (COO) and co-founder of Cartherics, an Australian biotech company developing next-generation cell therapies for difficult-to-treat diseases like cancer and endometriosis.
Dr. Nisbet also acts as a director or advisor to several Australian and US biotechnology companies. With more than 35 years of leadership in biotech and experience in bringing two FDA-approved oncology drugs to market, Dr. Nisbet offers valuable insights into how the next generation of cell therapies could transform patient care.
2025-09-1755 minXtalks Life Science PodcastWhy MASH Matters: The Next Steps in Liver Disease Innovation with 89bio’s Rohan PalekarIn this episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, Editor-in-Chief Vera Kovacevic speaks with Rohan Palekar, CEO of 89bio, about one of the fastest-growing public health challenges: metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), also known as fatty liver disease.
MASH is projected to affect more than 27 million Americans by 2030, yet it remains a largely “silent” epidemic.
Palekar discusses what sets MASH apart from other liver diseases, the urgent need for therapies that can rapidly reverse fibrosis in advanced patients and the unique challenges drug developers face in addressing this condition.
The conversation explores the drivers behi...
2025-09-1035 minXtalks Life Science PodcastBridging Aesthetics and Therapeutics in Dermatology with Galderma’s Dr. Bill AndriopoulosIn this episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, Senior Life Science Journalist Ayesha Rashid connects with Bill Andriopoulos, PhD, Vice President of Medical Affairs at Galderma US, to discuss the future of patient-centered dermatology across both medical and aesthetic care. Galderma is focused on advancing science-based innovations in the dermatology space.
Together, they discuss Galderma’s approach to responsible innovation, improving access and representation in research, and what it takes to advance care for every skin story.
Dr. Andriopoulos explains how medical affairs drives scientific evidence and cross-functional education within dermatology, and how the in...
2025-09-0335 minXtalks Life Science PodcastThe Neuroscience of Weight Regulation with Courage Therapeutics’ Dr. Roger ConeIn this episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, Senior Life Science Journalist Ayesha Rashid speaks with Dr. Roger Cone, PhD, founder of Courage Therapeutics, professor at the University of Michigan, a member of the National Academy of Sciences and a leading authority on the neuroscience of weight regulation.
Dr. Cone shares insights from over 30 years of groundbreaking research on the brain’s melanocortin system, discoveries that have revolutionized our understanding of obesity and restrictive eating disorders like anorexia nervosa and cachexia.
Dr. Cone’s discoveries of the melanocortin-3 and -4 receptors (MC3R and MC4R...
2025-08-2751 minXtalks Life Science PodcastExploring Immunomodulation Without Immunosuppression with Artax Biopharma’s Dr. Rob ArmstrongIn this episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, host Ayesha Rashid speaks with Rob Armstrong, PhD, CEO of Artax Biopharma, a company pioneering a novel class of oral small molecule drugs known as Nck modulators to treat autoimmune diseases. Unlike traditional therapies that suppress the immune system, Artax’s approach aims to restore immune balance by modulating T cell receptor signaling.
Dr. Armstrong shares insights into the company’s recent clinical progress, including positive Phase IIa results in psoriasis and promising preclinical data in atopic dermatitis, and what these milestones mean for the broader autoimmune treatment land...
2025-08-1937 minXtalks Life Science PodcastAdvancing Neurotherapeutics for Fragile X and Beyond with Spinogenix CMO Dr. Craig EricksonIn this episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, Ayesha speaks with Craig Erickson, MD, chief medical officer at Spinogenix and a leading expert in translational neurodevelopmental research.
Dr. Erickson shares insights into Spinogenix’s work on restoring synapses to reverse cognitive and motor decline in conditions like Fragile X Syndrome, ALS, Alzheimer’s disease and schizophrenia.
Dr. Erickson is a Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine-Affiliated and the Director of the Cincinnati Fragile X Research and Treatment Center. His work focuses on enhancing the ability to detect brain target enga...
2025-08-1337 minXtalks Life Science PodcastDriving Neuro Innovation with Neurizon Therapeutics CEO Dr. Michael ThurnIn this episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, Ayesha speaks with Michael Thurn, PhD, Managing Director & CEO, Neurizon Therapeutics, a company focused on advancing treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, including ALS, with expansion efforts in Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s and others.
With over 25 years of experience in biotech innovation, entrepreneurship and leadership and broad experience in drug discovery, development, regulation and commercialization, Dr. Thurn shares his vision for advancing next-generation therapies for neurodegenerative diseases.
Dr. Thurn has led a variety of FDA lnvestigational New Drug (IND) applications across a range of therapeutic areas, and th...
2025-08-0644 min
Xtalks Life Science PodcastRestoring Synapses to Fight ALS, Alzheimer’s and More with Spinogenix CEO Dr. Stella SarrafIn this episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, Ayesha speaks with Stella Sarraf, PhD, founder, CEO and director of Spinogenix, a company pioneering neurodegenerative therapeutics designed to restore synapses with the potential to reverse cognitive and motor decline in conditions such as ALS, Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia and other neurological disorders.
Dr. Sarraf shares the scientific inspiration behind Spinogenix’s novel approach and how the company is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in neuroscience.
With a career spanning big pharma (Merck), venture capital (Foresite Capital, Prospect Ventures) and multiple biotech startups, Dr. Sarraf...
2025-07-3038 minXtalks Life Science PodcastChampioning the Patient Voice with Ardelyx’s Chief Patient Officer Dr. Laura WilliamsIn this episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, Ayesha Rashid speaks with Laura Williams, MD, MPH, chief patient officer at Ardelyx, a company developing and commercializing first-in-class medicines for diseases like chronic kidney disease (CKD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Dr. Williams brings nearly 30 years of experience in clinical development, drug strategy and patient advocacy. With leadership roles across big pharma and biotech — including Abbott, Myovant and AMAG Pharmaceuticals — her impact is marked by eight FDA drug approvals and a relentless focus on improving patient outcomes.
Before joining Ardelyx, Dr. Williams was SVP and head...
2025-07-2338 minXtalks Life Science PodcastInside AI-Powered Drug Discovery with Gain Therapeutics’ CEO Gene MackIn this episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, Vera Kovacevic speaks with Gene Mack, CEO and President of Gain Therapeutics, a company focused on AI-driven small molecule discovery for diseases with high unmet medical needs.
With over 25 years of leadership across biopharma, capital markets and corporate strategy, Gene shares his unique perspective on the intersection of artificial intelligence and drug development — and how Gain Therapeutics is using it to tackle diseases with high unmet medical need.
Prior to joining Gain, Gene was CFO at Imcyse SA between 2021 and 2023, and at OncoC4, which spun out of...
2025-07-1631 minXtalks Life Science PodcastTargeting Mast Cells: A New Frontier in Allergy & Inflammation with Jasper Therapeutics’ CMO Dr. Edwin TuckerIn this episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, host Ayesha Rashid speaks with Edwin Tucker, MD, MBA, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) at Jasper Therapeutics, about innovative approaches to treating chronic mast cell diseases such as asthma, food allergies and IBS.
Dr. Tucker has over 30 years of clinical drug development experience, with past roles as CMO at Goldfinch Bio and Mirum Pharmaceuticals, where he led the first FDA approval for Alagille Syndrome. He also served as COO at Acerta Pharma and held leadership positions at Genentech, Janssen and Bayer.
Dr. Tucker is a member of...
2025-07-0938 minXtalks Life Science PodcastInnovating Treg Therapies for ALS and Alzheimer’s with Coya Therapeutics CEO Dr. Arun SwaminathanJoin us as we celebrate a major milestone — the 200th episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast! From groundbreaking biotech innovations to exclusive interviews with life science industry innovators and leaders, we've covered it all. Thank you for tuning in each week! We look forward to continuing to bring the latest and greatest across the pharma, biotech and medical industries!
In this episode, Ayesha spoke with Arun Swaminathan, PhD, CEO of Coya Therapeutics, a company developing regulatory T cell (Treg) therapies targeting neurodegenerative, autoimmune and metabolic diseases.
The company is developing a pipeline of therapies de...
2025-03-1939 minXtalks Life Science PodcastDriving Innovations in Rare Diseases with Takeda’s Anthea CherednichenkoIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Anthea Cherednichenko, MPH, MBA, Vice President, Hematology Franchise Head, Takeda, who discussed driving innovation in rare diseases through collaborations focused on better serving patients and their communities.
Anthea has more than a decade of global experience serving the rare disease community, particularly those with blood and bleeding disorders, at Takeda. She is a global healthcare leader with over 20 years of industry experience across the US, Europe and Asia. As Vice President and Franchise Head for Hematology in the US Business Unit at Takeda, Anthea steers a diverse portfolio and team to...
2025-02-2630 minXtalks Life Science PodcastAdvancing Alzheimer’s Diagnostics: Insights from ALZpath VP of R&D Dr. Lee Honigberg on the Future of Blood-Based Biomarker AssaysIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Lee Honigberg, PhD, VP of Research & Development, ALZpath, a provider of diagnostic tools for Alzheimer’s disease.
This includes a blood-based biomarker assay, called the ALZpathDx assay, which measures pTau217 in the blood.
Prior to joining ALZpath, Dr. Honigberg was most recently Senior Director and Distinguished Scientist in Translational Medicine at Genentech, where he was leading a group responsible for biomarker development for programs in neuroscience, ophthalmology, cardiovascular and metabolic disease.
Before Genentech, Dr. Honigberg was at Pharmacyclics where he led the preclinical development of ibru...
2025-02-1932 minXtalks Life Science PodcastAdvancing PTSD Treatment with Digital Brain Biomarkers ft. Oded Kraft, Co-Founder, CEO and President of GrayMatters HealthIn this episode, Vera speaks with Oded Kraft, Co-Founder, CEO and President of GrayMatters Health, a company transforming mental health care through evidence-based digital brain biomarker technology.
Oded shares insights into GrayMatters Health’s mission to improve patient outcomes for mental health disorders like PTSD by leveraging their proprietary EEG-fMRI-Pattern (EFP) biomarker. He discusses how this novel technology integrates functional MRI and EEG data to address critical gaps in mental health treatment, offering a personalized approach for patients.
With over 20 years of leadership experience at companies like GE Healthcare, Medingo-Roche and Kornit Digital, Oded also re...
2025-02-1225 minXtalks Life Science PodcastInnovating Immune-Modulating Therapies in Autoimmune Disorders ft. Dr. Mario Marcondes, VP Head of Clinical Development, Nektar TherapeuticsIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Mario Marcondes, MD, PhD, VP Head of Clinical Development at Nektar Therapeutics, a company focused on the discovery and development of novel therapies for autoimmune disorders and cancer.
Dr. Marcondes is a licensed and trained physician, specializing in oncology and immune oncology. He has more than 15 years of research and teaching experience in Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT)/Cellular Therapies and more than 10 years of industry experience. He was the Program Lead for early-stage assets at Nektar and manages clinical trial programs from Phase I through to Phase III.
Dr...
2025-02-0539 minXtalks Life Science PodcastAdvancing Digital Approaches in Alzheimer’s Research and Care ft. Sarah Averill Lott, Research Lead, Digital Medicine Society (DiMe) & Diane Stephenson, Executive Director, Critical Path for ParkinsonIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Sarah Averill Lott, MPH, CPH, Research Lead at Digital Medicine Society (DiMe) and Diane Stephenson, PhD, Executive Director at the Critical Path for Parkinson (CPP) at the Critical Path Institute.
DiMe is a global non-profit and a professional home for digital medicine that aims to drive the broad adoption of digital approaches to advance medicine and public health. DiMe convened a working group to identify barriers to greater utilization of digital measures in Alzheimer's research and subsequently developed resources to help researchers and clinicians more quickly adopt digital measures in this...
2025-01-2949 minXtalks Life Science PodcastTransformative Neuropsychiatric Therapies ft. Dr. Amit Etkin, Founder, President and CEO of Alto NeuroscienceIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Amit Etkin, Founder, President and CEO of Alto Neuroscience, a company developing precision treatments for neuropsychiatric conditions.
Alto Neuroscience is focused on designing candidates that target core brain processes in patient populations not adequately treated by currently available medications. Alto is currently pursuing candidates in major depressive disorder (MDD), bipolar depression and schizophrenia.
Mental health disorders are a leading cause of disability globally. In the US alone, 1 in 5 people are living with a mental health disorder, with an estimated $280 billion spent on mental health services in the country in 2020...
2025-01-2230 minXtalks Life Science PodcastPioneering Cancer Treatment with Alpha Radiation Technology ft. Alpha Tau Medical CMO Dr. Robert DenIn this episode, Vera spoke with Dr. Robert Den, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Alpha Tau Medical, a company developing cancer treatment with its highly potent alpha radiation technology.
Dr. Den shared his journey to becoming CMO at Alpha Tau Medical and discussed the company’s mission to bring innovative cancer therapies to patients worldwide.
Learn how Alpha Tau’s technology differs from traditional radiation therapies, the types of cancers it has shown promise in treating and the impact this novel, investigational approach could have on patient care.
With his expertise in radiation onco...
2025-01-1522 minXtalks Life Science PodcastInnovations in Immunomodulators for Diseases of the Immune System ft. Dr. Judy Chou, CEO, AltruBioIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Judy Chou, PhD, CEO, President and Board member of AltruBio, a company developing first-in-class immunomodulators to target diseases of the immune system.
AltruBio’s pipeline includes compounds being investigated for indications such as ulcerative colitis, psoriatic arthritis and acute graft vs. host disease.
Prior to joining AltruBio, Dr. Chou headed the global Biotech organization at Bayer Pharmaceuticals overseeing the development, manufacturing and distribution of Bayer’s biotechnology pipeline, product portfolio & more than 2,000 employees.
Before Bayer, Dr. Chou held various leadership roles at biopharmaceutical companies such as Pfizer/Medi...
2025-01-0835 minXtalks Life Science PodcastInnovating Cell-Based Solutions for Type 1 Diabetes ft. Jonathan Rigby, CEO, SernovaIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Jonathan Rigby, MBA, CEO of Sernova, a Canadian biotech company developing innovative cell therapy-based approaches for the management of type 1 diabetes.
The company’s lead innovation is an implantable bio-hybrid organ pouch, which is currently in an ongoing Phase I/II clinical trial.
An estimated 537 million people are currently living with diabetes globally and this number is projected to reach 643 million by 2030, making it a pressing health issue in need of new, effective solutions.
Jonathan has held leaderships positions at several biopharmaceutical companies over his career. Prior to...
2024-12-1848 minXtalks Life Science PodcastImmune-Based Intratumoral Cancer Therapies ft. Intensity Therapeutics founder and CEO Lewis BenderIn this episode, Ayesha had a conversation with Lewis Bender, MBA, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Intensity Therapeutics, a biotech company developing first-in-class immune-based intratumorally injected cancer therapies.
Intensity’s lead product candidate, INT230-6, is currently in human clinical studies for the treatment of refractory solid tumors, including metastatic soft tissue sarcoma and breast cancer.
Lewis Bender has almost three decades (28 years) of biopharmaceutical leadership experience and has helped take innovative new products from discovery through to product approval.
Lewis has held various leadership roles at biopharmaceutical companies including Interleukin Genetics and Em...
2024-12-1241 minXtalks Life Science PodcastTargeting Cancer Drug Resistance with Kairos Pharma’s CEO Dr. John YuIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with John Yu, MD, CEO of Kairos Pharma, a company advancing therapies to overcome challenges in cancer drug resistance and immune suppression.
Kairos is developing therapeutics that reverse cancer drug resistance in cancers such as prostate and lung cancer. The company’s lead candidate, ENV105, is an antibody targeting CD105, which is implicated in cancer cell resistance to various treatments. By inhibiting CD105, ENV105 seeks to restore the effectiveness of standard therapies across multiple cancer types.
Dr. Yu is also Professor and Clinical Chief of Neurosurgery, Director of the Brain Tu...
2024-12-0427 minXtalks Life Science PodcastInnovating Immunotherapeutics with Oncolytic Virus Therapy ft. Oncolytics Biotech’s CMO Dr. Thomas HeinemanIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Thomas Heineman, MD, PhD, Chief Medical Officer at Oncolytics Biotech, a company developing an oncolytic virus cancer therapeutic that is currently in clinical trials for indications including metastatic breast cancer and pancreatic cancer.
Oncolytics is developing a first-in-class, nonpathogenic oncolytic virus administered intravenously that activates, recruits and trains immune cells to identify and destroy cancer cells. Simultaneously, it remodels the tumor microenvironment, improving immune cell infiltration and access.
Prior to joining Oncolytics, Dr. Heineman held leadership roles at Denovo Biopharma, Genocea Biosciences and Halozyme Therapeutics.
Dr. Heineman’s...
2024-11-2746 minXtalks Life Science PodcastLaser Vision: Pioneering Laser Innovations for Presbyopia ft. Ace Vision’s Dr. AnneMarie HipsleyIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with AnnMarie Hipsley, DPT, PhD, CEO and founder of Ace Vision Group, an ophthalmic laser device company that is bringing touchless eye laser therapy to patients with age-related vision loss.
Dr. Hipsley is a vision scientist, inventor, entrepreneur, author and speaker on ocular biomechanics and the biomechanical rejuvenation of the aging eye.
She invented an innovative touchless laser system and a laser microporation system for the treatment of presbyopia.
Presbyopia is an age-related condition in which the eye gradually loses its ability to focus on close objects due...
2024-11-2045 minXtalks Life Science PodcastBringing the Tech Revolution to Medicine with Digital Therapeutics ft. Click Therapeutics’ CMO Dr. Shaheen LakhanIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Shaheen Lakhan, MD, PhD, Chief Medical and Scientific Officer, Click Therapeutics, a company focused on developing software as prescription medical treatments for people with unmet medical needs.
Click Therapeutics is specifically developing Digital Therapeutics, which involve the delivery of prescription treatments to patient’s smartphones. These are being developed for indications in psychiatry, neurology, oncology, immunology and cardiometabolic diseases.
In collaboration with Otsuka, Click Therapeutics most recently developed the first prescription digital therapeutic authorized by the FDA for the adjunctive treatment of major depressive disorder symptoms.
Dr. La...
2024-11-1300 minXtalks Life Science PodcastInside the Latest Advances in Hearing Tech ft. Envoy Medical CEO Brent LucasIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Brent Lucas, CEO of Envoy Medical.
Envoy Medical is a medical device company focused on providing cutting-edge technologies across the hearing loss spectrum.
According to the National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, 13 percent of people in the US 12 years of age and older have hearing loss in both ears, underscoring the importance of developing solutions to help this population.
Brent Lucas has been the CEO of Envoy Medical Corporation for the last seven years. Brent is a lawyer by training and as a Medical Devices...
2024-11-0636 minXtalks Life Science PodcastAdvances in Heart Failure Treatment ft. Dr. Robert Perkins, VP, US Medical Affairs/Renal, BayerIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Robert Perkins, MD, Vice President, US Medical Affairs/Renal and Cardiovascular at Bayer who spoke about recent advancements in the heart failure (HF) treatment landscape.
This includes new Phase III trial data for Kerendia (finerenone) in patients with heart failure that was presented recently at this year’s European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Congress 2024.
At Bayer, Dr. Perkins leads a team of medical directors and field team members working to advance the care of patients with kidney disease and heart failure. Dr. Perkins has also led the development and im...
2024-10-3120 minXtalks Life Science PodcastTransforming Clinical Research: A Conversation with Morgan Hanger, Executive Director of CTTIIn this episode, Vera spoke with Morgan Hanger, Executive Director of the Clinical Trials Transformation Initiative (CTTI). CTTI is a public-private partnership dedicated to improving the quality and efficiency of clinical trials, aiming to transform the industry by 2030.
Hanger shares her career journey, from her roles at PatientsLikeMe and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, to leading CTTI. She explains how her patient-centered focus has shaped CTTI’s approach to its Transforming Trials 2030 initiative.
Hanger addresses the major challenges in clinical trials today, including regulatory complexities and the need for better data transparency. She explains how CT...
2024-10-2329 minXtalks Life Science PodcastInnovative Approaches to Antiviral Drug DevelopmentIn this episode, Vera spoke with Dr. Sam Lee, Co-Chief Executive Officer and President of Cocrystal Pharma, a clinical-stage biotech company focusing on antiviral drug development with a unique structure-based drug discovery platform.
With over 25 years of experience in anti-infective drug discovery, Dr. Lee brings a wealth of knowledge to the discussion on the urgent need for innovative antiviral therapies.
The conversation begins with Dr. Lee sharing insights on the mission of Cocrystal Pharma, which leverages Nobel Prize-winning expertise in the development of antiviral drugs.
Vera and Dr. Lee then discuss the recent...
2024-10-1633 minXtalks Life Science PodcastA Unique Approach to in vivo CAR T Therapy and New Advancements in the FieldIn this episode, Vera spoke with Tim Culp, PhD, Vice President of Research and Development at Interius BioTherapeutics, a Philadelphia-based biotech company.
Their lead program focuses on an intravenous CAR therapy for B cell lymphomas. Additionally, the company is advancing a second program aimed at treating autoimmune diseases.
Dr. Culp joined Interius following a distinguished 14-year career with Merck Research Laboratories where he supported vaccine and oncolytic virus program development as a Senior Principal Scientist. His experience includes leadership of both early and late-stage development teams responsible for all Chemistry, Manufacturing and Controls (CMC) deliverables...
2024-10-0932 minXtalks Life Science PodcastThe Promise of Epigenetic Therapeutics in Alcohol-Associated Hepatitis ft. DURECT President and CEO Dr. James BrownIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with James E. Brown, DVM, co-founder, President and CEO of DURECT.
DURECT is pioneering a therapeutic strategy by leveraging the potential of epigenetic modulation to alter the trajectory of severe and life-threatening conditions like acute organ injury and cancer.
The company is specifically focused on the development of an epigenetic modulator, larsucosterol (DUR-928) for the treatment of alcohol-associated hepatitis (AH). The therapeutic has shown promising results in human studies, including a Phase IIb trial in AH patients.
Dr. Brown co-founded DURECT in February 1998 and has served as President...
2024-10-0232 minXtalks Life Science PodcastPioneering mRNA Therapies for Lung DiseasesIn this episode, Vera spoke with Carsten Rudolph, PhD, CEO of Ethris.
Ethris was founded by Dr. Rudolph and Professor Christian Plank with the goal of establishing messenger RNA (mRNA) as a novel drug modality for lung diseases such as asthma and rare pulmonary conditions like primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) and pulmonary alveolar proteinosis.
Ethris leverages its proprietary SNIM® RNA platform and lipidoid nanoparticle (LNP) delivery technology for versatile, multi-route therapeutic applications.
As mRNA therapies gain global traction, Dr. Rudolph sees opportunities for Ethris to make an impact.
Tune into the e...
2024-09-2534 minXtalks Life Science PodcastSilencing Disease: Shifting Treatment Paradigms with RNAi Therapeutics ft. Alnylam’s VP Research Dr. Kirk BrownIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Kirk Brown, PhD, Vice President of Research at Alnylam Pharmaceuticals.
Alnylam is focused on developing RNAi medicines to transform the way diseases like cardiovascular and neurological diseases are treated.
Dr. Brown’s preclinical work combining stable siRNA designs with alternative conjugation strategies has enabled potent, long-lasting silencing across the CNS following a single intrathecal administration.
In addition to driving RNAi platform innovations, Dr. Brown leads a team of CNS target biologists at Alnylam and serves as the research lead for ALN-APP, the first clinical CNS RNAi program.
...
2024-09-1830 minXtalks Life Science PodcastThe Science of Sleep: Unmet Needs and Treatments for Narcolepsy ft. Avadel Pharma’s Dr. Jennifer GudemanIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Jennifer Gudeman, Pharm D, Senior Vice President, Medical and Clinical Affairs, Avadel Pharmaceuticals plc, a biopharmaceutical company working on innovative solutions to the development of medications that disrupt treatment paradigms and address unmet needs. The company is currently focused on developing treatments for narcolepsy, a complex chronic neurological sleep disorder.
Dr. Gudeman joined Avadel in 2020. This was a critical time for the company as the team had submitted an NDA for a treatment that had the potential to improve the standard of care in narcolepsy. Dr. Gudeman helped continue the clinical...
2024-09-0433 minXtalks Life Science PodcastNon-Hormonal Innovations in Obesity and Diabetes Treatment with Aphaia Pharma’s Dr. Steffen-Sebastian BolzIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Steffen-Sebastian Bolz, MD, PhD, a scientist, physician and entrepreneur. He is a Co-Founder of Aphaia Pharma AG and Founder and Chief Scientific and Medical Officer at Qanatpharma AG. Dr. Bolz holds a full professorship at the University of Toronto, is a Principal Investigator at the Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research and Director of the Toronto Centre for Microvascular Medicine.
Aphaia Pharma is developing innovative, non-hormonal treatments for metabolic conditions like diabetes and obesity. The company is focused on restoring a normal metabolic food response through natural and safe treatment alternatives...
2024-08-2842 minXtalks Life Science PodcastFNIH Study Shows Promise of Blood Tests for Alzheimer’s Disease, featuring Dementia Expert Dr. Schindler and FNIH Neuroscience Director Dr. TravagliaIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Alessio Travaglia, PhD, neuroscientist and Director Neuroscience at the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (FNIH) and Suzanne Schindler, MD, PhD, Associate Professor of Neurology at Washington University.
Results from a head-to-head study led by the FNIH Biomarkers Consortium, with data analysis led by Dr. Schindler, have shown that some commercial diagnostic blood tests are accurate enough for clinical use and could replace cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) tests and PET scans in the near future for the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. This would save patients the cost and pain associated wi...
2024-08-2136 minXtalks Life Science PodcastBeyond the Beat: Dr. Matthew Martinez Discusses HCM Care in Athletes and New Camzyos GuidelinesIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Matthew Martinez, MD, a board-certified cardiologist and nationally recognized expert in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). He serves as director of Atlantic Health System Sports Cardiology and the director of the Chanin T. Mast Center for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy.
Dr. Martinez is the Chair of ACC online “LEARNHCM” platform, which educates clinicians about HCM patient care. Dr. Martinez also serves as a cardiology consultant for elite and professional athletes including acting as the League cardiologist for Major League Soccer, team cardiologist for the New York Jets and cardiac consultant for the NFL and NHL.
2024-08-1439 minXtalks Life Science PodcastBridging Science and Advocacy with Lawreen Asuncion, Life Science Professional and Rare Disease Patient AdvocateIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Lawreen Asuncion, a patient advocate who works to raise awareness for the rare disease Usher syndrome.
Lawreen has worked professionally in the biotech and life science markets for over 25 years. She provides input and perspectives for rare genetic disease programs and clinical trials sponsored by biotech and pharma companies.
Lawreen is a dedicated patient advocate for Usher syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that causes both hearing and vision loss in most individuals, and also balance for some. As someone living with Usher syndrome type 2c, Lawreen brings a deeply...
2024-08-0733 minXtalks Life Science PodcastBringing Integrated Nutritional and Pharmaceutical Approaches to the Table for GI Health with Nestlé Health Science’s Moreno PeruginiIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Moreno Perugini, President of Active & Medical Nutrition, US & President of Global Pharmaceutical Therapies at Nestlé Health Science US.
As President of Global Pharmaceutical Therapies, Moreno and his team actively shape the healthcare system through innovative approaches and a strong commitment to delivering pharmaceutical products with a human-centered focus.
Throughout his career spanning over two decades, he has held leadership positions at pharmaceutical companies like AbbVie and Novartis. Notably, he has been instrumental in bringing multiple pharmaceutical technologies to market, across different therapeutic areas guided by his unwavering commitment to p...
2024-07-3136 minXtalks Life Science PodcastGolden Innovations: Nanocrystal Therapies for ALS and MS with Clene Nanomedicines’ Dr. Karen HoIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Karen S. Ho, PhD, Vice President, Translational Medicine at Clene Nanomedicine, a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing treatments for neurodegenerative diseases to restore and protect neuronal health and function.
Clene Nanomedicine is developing nanotherapeutics that target cellular energy impairments common to neurodegenerative and many other diseases. Specifically, the company’s lead asset is based on leveraging the catalytic therapeutic activities of gold when engineered as clean-surfaced faceted nanocrystals.
At Clene Nanomedicine, Dr. Ho directs the translation of preclinical successes of Clene’s lead drug assets into high clinical value with...
2024-07-1634 minXtalks Life Science PodcastFrom Symptoms to Solutions: Transforming Menopause Treatment with Marci English of Astellas PharmaIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Marci English, Vice President and Head of BioPharma Development at Astellas Pharma about a groundbreaking new treatment that addresses the underlying mechanisms of menopause symptoms.
In May 2023, Astellas received FDA approval for fezolinetant (commercial name Veozah) for the treatment of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms due to menopause. The therapy is the first nonhormonal neurokinin 3 (NK3) receptor antagonist approved to treat vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause, which include hot flashes and night sweats.
Tune into the episode to learn about the latest on fezolinetant one year after its approval...
2024-07-1028 minXtalks Life Science PodcastNew Frontiers in MASH and Chronic Liver Diseases with Aligos CEO Dr. Lawrence BlattIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Lawrence Blatt, PhD, MBA, Chairman and CEO of Aligos Therapeutics, a company developing targeted therapies for liver diseases like MASH (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis) and viral diseases to address important unmet medical needs.
Prior to co-founding Aligos Therapeutics, Dr. Blatt served as the Global Head of Infectious Diseases and Vaccines at Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson from 2014 to 2018. He also co-founded several biotech companies, including Alios BioPharma, which was acquired by Janssen in November 2014. Dr. Blatt previously served on the board of directors of companies including ReViral Ltd. and Alveo Technologies...
2024-07-0334 minXtalks Life Science PodcastFNIH’s Dr. Travaglia and ALS Patient Advocate Dr. Sethi Discuss New ALS ProgramIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Alessio Travaglia, PhD, Director Neuroscience at the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (FNIH) who also manages FNIH’s new Accelerating Medicines Partnership in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (AMP ALS) program, and Nadia Sethi, DDS, an ALS patient advocate who formerly served as Director of Community Outreach and Engagement at the ALS Therapy Development Institute.
Dr. Travaglia has 15 years of experience in basic and translational neuroscience in academia, non-profit, management consulting and venture philanthropy. Dr. Sethi is a patient advocate with strong leadership skills, experienced in patient outreach and representing advocacy or...
2024-06-2630 minXtalks Life Science PodcastThe Road Ahead for Former ALS Hopeful Relyvrio ft. Amylyx's Joshua Cohen and Justin KleeIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Joshua Cohen and Justin Klee, co-CEOs and co-founders of Amylyx Pharmaceuticals, a company developing therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Josh and Justin co-founded Amylyx Pharmaceuticals in 2013. Josh co-invented the oral, fixed-dose combination AMX0035 (known commercially as Albrioza in Canada and Relyvrio in the US), which is being explored for the potential treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. With a background in biomedical engineering, Josh is passionate about improving outcomes where there is a significant unmet need by pursuing research into novel drug candidates for ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases.
2024-06-1941 minXtalks Life Science PodcastInsights into Precision Dosing with Dr. Howard McLeod and Dr. Sharmeen RoyIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Howard McLeod, PharmD, Director of the Center for Precision Medicine and Functional Genomics, Professor of Pharmacy and Medicine at Utah Tech University and Precision Medicine Advisor at the Geriatric Oncology Consortium; and Sharmeen Roy, PharmD, Chief Strategy and Science Officer at DoseMe, which is the world’s first and largest Bayesian dosing platform designed for clinical practice.
Precision dosing, also known as personalized dosing, aims to tailor drug dosages to the individual characteristics of each patient to achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes while minimizing adverse effects. It leverages various patient-specific factors, including ge...
2024-06-1238 minXtalks Life Science PodcastTargeting AML with a New Generation of T-Cell Therapies, ft. Brian Atwood, Chairman and CEO of CERo TherapeuticsIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Brian Atwood, Chairman and CEO of CERo Therapeutics, a company pioneering a new generation of autologous T-cell-based therapies for both hematologic and solid tumor cancers.
Prior to joining CERo, Brian Atwood served as Chairman of the board of directors of Phoenix Biotech Acquisition Corp., which merged with CERo Therapeutics to form CERo Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. Mr. Atwood has founded and co-founded several biotechnology and healthcare-focused companies throughout his career, including Cell Design Labs Inc. where he served as President and Chief Executive Officer until 2018 when it was acquired by Gilead Sciences. H...
2024-06-0529 minXtalks Life Science PodcastExploring Next-Gen Antivirals ft. Sam Lee, PhD, Co-CEO & President, Cocrystal PharmaIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Sam Lee, PhD, Co-Chief Executive Officer and President of Cocrystal Pharma, a company developing novel antiviral therapeutics against COVID-19 and other coronaviruses, influenza viruses and noroviruses.
Cocrystal Pharma leverages a unique structure-based drug discovery platform, complemented by Nobel Prize-winning expertise, to develop leading-edge antiviral drugs that are both first-in-class and best-in-class. Their antivirals specifically target the viral replication process and are designed for safety, broad-spectrum effectiveness, resistance management and ease of administration.
Dr. Lee brings over 25 years of experience in anti-infective drug discovery research to his role. Before joining...
2024-05-2924 minXtalks Life Science PodcastGene Editing Innovations with Programmable Gene Insertion (PGI) Technology ft. Dr. John Finn, Tome BiosciencesIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with John Finn, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer at Tome Biosciences, a company developing programmable gene insertion (PGI) technology.
PGI is a cutting-edge gene editing technology that allows for the insertion of large sequences of DNA with site-specific precision. PGI is a revolutionary approach for the development of potentially curative cell and integrative gene therapies. The technology underlies Tome’s investigational candidate therapeutics for autoimmune diseases and the rare metabolic disorder phenylketonuria (PKU) among other conditions.
Dr. Finn has over 20 years of experience in the gene therapy space with a focus on...
2024-05-2233 minXtalks Life Science PodcastNew Frontiers in Epilepsy and Seizure Treatments ft. Dr. Jeremy Levin and Meg Alexander, Ovid TherapeuticsIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Jeremy Levin, D. Phil, MB BChir, CEO and Chairman of Ovid Therapeutics Inc., and Meg Alexander, Chief Strategy Officer at Ovid.
Ovid Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of medicines for epilepsies and seizure-related neurological disorders.
Prior to founding Ovid, Dr. Levin was president and CEO of Teva Pharmaceutical Industries and a member of the executive committee at Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMS) Company where he was the architect, lead and implementer of the String of Pearls Strategy, which transformed BMS and facilitated the initiation and massive growth...
2024-05-1547 minXtalks Life Science PodcastPsychedelic-Based Therapeutics for Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) – Interview with Robert Barrow, CEO, MindMedIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Robert Barrow, CEO and Board Director at MindMed, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing novel product candidates to treat brain health disorders.
The company is developing innovative psychedelic-based product candidates, with and without acute perceptual effects, targeting neurotransmitter pathways that play key roles in brain health disorders.
Mr. Barrow is an accomplished pharmaceutical executive and clinical pharmacologist with over a decade of experience leading drug development programs in a variety of disease areas. After joining MindMed as Chief Development Officer in January 2021, he was named CEO in June 2021. Mr. Barrow h...
2024-05-0126 minXtalks Life Science PodcastDeveloping Conditionally Active Antibodies: Interview with John K. Celebi, President & CEO, Sensei Bio.In this episode, Ayesha spoke with John K. Celebi, MBA, President & Chief Executive Officer, Sensei Bio, a clinical-stage immuno-oncology company focused on the discovery and development of next-generation therapeutics for cancer patients.
Sensei Biotherapeutics specializes in creating conditionally active antibodies. These are engineered to operate specifically within the tumor microenvironment, enhancing the immune system's ability to combat cancer.
John Celebi, MBA, has over 25 years of experience building innovative entrepreneurial biotechnology companies.
Mr. Celebi currently serves on the Board of Directors of Egle Therapeutics SAS, a biotechnology company developing first-in-class immunotherapies targeting immune suppressor...
2024-04-2428 minXtalks Life Science PodcastTreg Cell Therapy for Neurodegenerative Diseases – Interview with Dr. Howard Berman, CEO, Coya TherapeuticsIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Howard Berman, PhD, Founder and CEO of Coya Therapeutics, a clinical-stage biotech company developing regulatory T cell (Treg) therapies targeting neurodegenerative, autoimmune and metabolic diseases. Dr. Berman founded Coya Therapeutics in 2021.
Dr. Berman has over 18 years of entrepreneurial and industry experience working at the interplay of science and business. His experience offers him a unique combination of business acumen and scientific credibility with the ability to assess, quantify and bridge both disciplines.
Dr. Berman gained corporate experience with increasing responsibilities and positions as a Medical Science Liaison at AbbVie w...
2024-04-1734 minXtalks Life Science PodcastImproving Cancer Screening Among Métis Communities: Interview with Margaret Froh, President, Métis Nation of OntarioIn this episode, Ayesha spoke with Margaret Froh, President of the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO). Margaret is also a lawyer by training.
The Métis are a distinct Indigenous people recognized in s.35 of Canada’s Constitution. Métis communities have their own shared customs, traditions and collective identities that are rooted in kinship, their special aboriginal relationship to the land and a distinctive Indigenous culture and way of life that persists to the present day.
Cancer is a significant concern among Métis people in Ontario and across the Métis Nation Homeland, i...
2024-04-1032 minXtalks Life Science PodcastCell Therapies for Chronic Kidney Disease: Featuring Bruce Culleton, CEO, ProKidneyThis episode features an interview with Bruce Culleton, MD, CEO, ProKidney, a late clinical-stage biotech company focused on the development of a pioneering cell therapy candidate that aims to transform the treatment landscape for chronic kidney disease.
Prior to joining ProKidney in 2023, Dr. Culleton served as Vice President and General Manager at CVS Kidney Care and also worked in leadership roles at Becton Dickinson and Baxter healthcare. Before beginning his career in industry in 2007, Dr. Culleton was a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Calgary.
ProKidney’s lead product ca...
2024-04-0325 minXtalks Life Science PodcastPeople in Life Sciences Series: Day-in-the-Life of a Pharmacovigilance Professional – Interview with Ashish Jain, Senior Director of Clinical Safety a...In this featured episode of Xtalks People in Life Sciences, Ayesha spoke with Ashish Jain, Senior Director of Clinical Safety and Pharmacovigilance (PV) at Curis, a pioneering biotech company specializing in cutting-edge cancer therapies.
Jain shared his journey into clinical safety and PV, highlighting key milestones along the way. Delving into his daily routine at Curis, he revealed his strategies for prioritizing tasks and staying informed of the latest developments in PV.
Throughout the interview, Jain offered invaluable insights into career advancement in clinical safety and PV. He emphasized the indispensable skills and competencies vital...
2024-03-2034 minXtalks Life Science PodcastDr. Lahar Mehta Speaks About New Trial to Evaluate ALS Drug for Progressive Supranuclear PalsyThis episode features an interview with Dr. Lahar Mehta, Head of Global Clinical Development at Amylyx Pharmaceuticals, who spoke to Xtalks about Amylyx’s clinical trial design of ORION, a Phase III Global Study of AMX0035 (Relyvrio) in Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP).
The company presented details about the trial at the Neuro2023 PSP and CBD International Research Symposium that took place in London last month in October. The ORION study will evaluate the safety, efficacy, and tolerability of AMX0035 in PSP patients. The drug was approved by the FDA last year for the treatment of ALS.
2023-11-1525 minXtalks Life Science PodcastInnovations and Clinical Trial Diversity in Medical Aesthetics: Insights from Dr. Stephanie Manson Brown, VP & Head of Clinical Development at Allerga...Visit clinicaledge.xtalks.com/issue1 to dive into the first issue of Xtalks Clinical Edge magazine and be a part of the conversation shaping the next era of clinical trials. Xtalks Clinical Edge — "where innovation meets expertise!"
This episode features an interview with Dr. Stephanie Manson Brown, VP & Head of Clinical Development & Scientific Innovation of R&D at Allergan Aesthetics at AbbVie. Allergan Aesthetics is focused on creating products and technologies that drive the advancement of aesthetic medicine.
Dr. Manson Brown’s Clinical Development and Scientific Innovation team are responsible for global clinical trial development stra...
2023-11-0132 minXtalks Life Science PodcastAdvancing CAR T Cell Therapies in Immuno-Oncology – Featuring Dr. Paul Rennert, CEO, CSO, Aleta BiotherapeuticsThis episode features an interview with Dr. Paul Rennert, co-founder, CEO and CSO of Aleta Biotherapeutics, an immuno-oncology company focused on multi-antigen targeting solutions designed to enhance the action of CAR T cell therapies in B cell lymphoma, B cell leukemia and multiple myeloma, as well as non-B cell cancers such as acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and solid tumors such as breast cancer, gastric cancer and pediatric brain tumors.
Dr. Rennert spoke to Xtalks about CAR T cell engagers that Aleta is developing for both B-cell and non-B cell cancers. The company was recently granted clinical trial...
2023-10-1147 minXtalks Life Science PodcastNew HPV Vaccine Data Shows Long-Term Impact – Featuring Dr. Elmar Joura from the Medical University of ViennaThis episode features an interview with Dr. Elmar Joura, Associate Professor of Gynecology in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Medical University of Vienna, who spoke to Xtalks about exciting new long-term Gardasil vaccine data from a study he led as principal investigator that showed the long-term impact of HPV vaccination.
Merck recently announced new, 10-year long-term follow-up data published in the journal, Pediatrics, for girls and boys who received a three-dose regimen of the HPV vaccine Gardasil 9 at the ages of nine to 15 years old.
Immunogenicity data from the study showed sustained...
2023-10-0420 minXtalks Life Science PodcastDiscussing Next Generation Chemotherapy Drugs with Processa Pharma’s Dr. David YoungThis episode features an interview with Dr. David Young, founder and President R&D at Processa Pharmaceuticals, a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company developing personalized approaches to cancer treatments with a focus on next generation chemotherapy drugs with improved safety and efficacy. Processa recently released an update on its clinical cancer program, which Dr. Young discussed with Xtalks in this podcast episode.
Dr. Young is Processa’s initial founder, President of R&D and former President and CEO. He has over 30 years of pharmaceutical research, drug development and corporate experience. He served on the Board of Directors and as Ch...
2023-09-0630 minXtalks Life Science PodcastIn Conversation with Principal Investigator and SME Dr. Lawrence Eichenfield About the FDA Approval of a Drug-Device Combo for Common Skin InfectionThis episode features an interview with Dr. Lawrence Eichenfield, chief of pediatric and adolescent dermatology at Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego, and professor of dermatology and pediatrics and vice-chair of the department of dermatology at UC San Diego School of Medicine.
Dr. Eichenfield serves on Verrica Pharmaceuticals’ Board of Directors and spoke to Xtalks about the company’s recent approval of YCANTH (cantharidin) topical solution as the first FDA approved treatment for pediatric and adult patients with molluscum contagiosum, a highly contagious viral skin infection that primarily affects children. Dr. Eichenfield was also the principal investigator on clinical trial...
2023-08-0223 minXtalks Life Science PodcastBiosimilars and the Problem with PBMs: Interview with Juliana M. Reed, Executive Director of the Biosimilars ForumUptake of biosimilars is lagging in the US, but why? In this episode, Sarah interviews Juliana M. Reed, Executive Director of the Biosimilars Forum, to find out the real barriers to widespread access to biosimilars, and how these problems could be addressed.
Julie discusses the role of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and the incentives that keep them from listing most biosimilars on their formularies. She applauds the recent launch of multiple new biosimilars for the blockbuster biologic Humira and explains why this moment is pivotal for the biosimilars industry and the US healthcare system as a whole.
2023-07-1935 minXtalks Life Science PodcastXtalks Speaks with Astellas Pharma’s VP & Head of BioPharma Development Marci English About Menopause Drug ApprovalThis episode features an interview with Marci English, Vice President and Head of BioPharma Development at Astellas Pharma, about the recent FDA approval of the company’s drug Veozah (fezolinetant) for the treatment of moderate to severe hot flashes and night sweats due to menopause.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has been the conventional treatment for menopause-associated vasomotor symptoms, otherwise known as hot flashes and night sweats; however, not all women can receive hormone therapies. Apart from HRT, treatment options have been limited for the vasomotor symptoms of menopause and therefore, the approval of Veozah addresses a significant unm...
2023-06-2819 minXtalks Life Science PodcastIn conversation with FNIH’s Dr. Courtney Silverthorn, Director of the AMP Bespoke Gene Therapy Consortium, About New Rare Disease Trial PortfolioThis episode features an interview with Dr. Courtney Silverthorn who is an Associate Vice President at the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (FNIH) and the Director of the Accelerating Medicines Partnership (AMP) program including the Bespoke Gene Therapy Consortium.
The FNIH recently announced that the AMP Bespoke Gene Therapy Consortium has selected eight rare diseases for its clinical trial portfolio. Xtalks spoke with Dr. Silverthorm about the consortium’s new rare disease clinical trial portfolio.
Hear more about the diseases that were selected and the consortium’s goal of accelerating the path of new t...
2023-06-1424 minXtalks Life Science PodcastPharma By The Numbers: Celebrating 20 Years of Xtalks with an Analysis of the IndustryIn this episode, Xtalks’ senior editorial staff discuss how the pharmaceutical industry has changed – and stayed the same – in the last 2 decades. Sarah talks about the global value of the pharmaceutical industry in 2002 versus today and which companies made the top 3 based on revenue.
Sarah also shared the top-selling drugs in 2002, 2012 and 2022, and how much the industry as a whole has invested in R&D in those years. The team discusses the number of new drugs and biologics approved by the FDA each year, and debates whether the regulator will be able to keep up with growing submis...
2023-04-0555 minXtalks Life Science PodcastInterview with Cala Health’s CCO Doug Biehn about Neuromodulation Therapy Cala Trio for Hand TremorsIn this week’s Xtalks Life Science podcast episode, Sarah spoke with Doug Biehn, Chief Commercial Officer at Cala Health, a bioelectronic medicine company that develops wearable neuromodulation therapies.
The company’s lead product, Cala Trio, was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2018 for transient relief of hand tremors in adults with essential tremor (ET).
Tune into the episode to learn more about Cala Health’s individualized prescription neuromodulation therapy. Doug discussed the day-to-day struggles of patients with ET and the challenges they face when seekin...
2023-03-0119 minXtalks Life Science PodcastInterview with Polarean Imaging CTO Dr. Bastiaan Driehuys on the FDA Approval of Lung Imaging Drug Device Combo XenoviewIn this week’s Xtalks Life Science podcast episode, Ayesha and the editorial team spoke with Dr. Bastiaan Driehuys, Founder and Chief Technology Officer at Polarean Imaging.
Polarean is a medical imaging company focused on improving the state of lung imaging. The company recently received FDA approval for its drug device combination product, Xenoview. Xenoview is a hyperpolarized contrast agent, prepared from the Xenon 129 Gas Blend, that is indicated for use with MRI to evaluate lung ventilation in adults and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older.
Tune into the episode to learn more about the...
2023-02-1533 minXtalks Life Science PodcastInterview with Thea Pharma’s Susan Benton about Eye Care and the FDA Approval of IyuzehIn this week’s Xtalks Life Science podcast episode, Ayesha and the editorial team spoke with Susan Benton, Country Manager at Thea Pharma, an eye care company that focuses on developing innovative eye care treatments to help further the future of ophthalmic treatment.
Thea Pharma recently won FDA approval for its latest eye care product Iyuzeh for the reduction of elevated intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. Iyuzeh is the first and only preservative-free formulation of the medication latanoprost in the US.
To talk more about the new FDA approval for Iyu...
2023-01-2528 minXtalks Life Science PodcastInterview with Breast Surgical Oncologist Dr. Monique Gary on Cancer Health DisparitiesIn this week’s Xtalks Life Science podcast episode, Ayesha and the editorial team spoke with Dr. Monique Gary, or Dr. Mo, a breast surgical oncologist, researcher, advocate and expert on cancer and healthcare disparities.
Dr. Mo is passionate about developing integrative, holistic and innovative approaches to cancer treatment, prevention and survivorship both locally and throughout the world. She serves on the board of several community organizations and was recognized as a Leading Physicians of the World and Top Breast Surgeon in Pennsylvania for 2017, 2018 and 2019.
On the show, Dr. Mo spoke about disparities in breast can...
2023-01-1126 minXtalks Life Science PodcastInterview with the leaders at Amylyx, Maker of New FDA Approved ALS Drug RelyvrioIn this week’s Xtalks Life Science podcast episode, Ayesha and the team spoke with the co-founders and co-CEOs of Amylyx, Joshua Cohen and Justin Klee, and Amylyx’s General Manager of Canada Chris Aiello.
Amylyx is a pharmaceutical company focused on the development of therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. On September 29th this year, Amylyx received FDA approval for its oral, fixed dose medication Relyvrio for the treatment of adults with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). A few months earlier, the medication had received conditional approval in Canada, where it is marketed under the brand name Albrioza. To hear...
2022-12-1425 minXtalks Life Science PodcastInterview with Cystic Fibrosis and Rare Disease Patient Leader Gunnar EsiasonIn this episode, Ayesha and the editorial team spoke with prominent cystic fibrosis and rare disease patient leader Gunnar Esiason to learn more about his advocacy work, including his work in clinical trials and developing patient-facing technologies. Gunnar has consulted on clinical trial development, a real-world evidence population health study and a cystic fibrosis-specific mental health and wellness screening tool. He has been the face of fundraising efforts for the Boomer Esiason Foundation, which has raised more than $160 million for the fight against cystic fibrosis since he was diagnosed with the condition in 1993. He also has a successful blog...
2022-10-2631 minXtalks Life Science PodcastBimodal Neuromodulation for Tinnitus: Interview with Caroline Hamilton, Clinical Director of Neuromod Devices – Xtalks Life Science Podcast Ep. 81In this episode, Ayesha and the editorial team spoke with Caroline Hamilton, Clinical Director of Neuromod Devices, a medical technology company that specializes in the design and development of neuromodulation technologies. The company is committed to addressing the clinical needs of underserved patient populations who live with chronic and debilitating conditions globally. Caroline spoke to Xtalks about Neuromod’s proprietary, patented bimodal neuromodulation technology that it is evaluating for neurological disorders. The lead application of Neuromod's technology is the Lenire device for the treatment of tinnitus, frequently referred to as “ringing in the ears.” Tinnitus is believed to impact betwee...
2022-10-1222 minXtalks Life Science PodcastFitbit Introduces New Smartwatch with AFib Detection + FDA Approves Imbruvica for Pediatric Patients with cGVHDIn this episode, Ayesha discussed Fitbit’s new lineup of smartwatches that is set to release this fall, including the Sense 2 which has a sensor for the detection of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Fitbit said the Sense 2 is its most advanced health-focused smartwatch to date. The device has a sensor that can identify signs of AFib through the company’s electrocardiogram (ECG) app and photoplethysmography (PPG) algorithm. Hear more about the AFib detection feature as well as the smartwatch’s new Body Response sensor for stress management.
Ayesha also discussed the FDA approval of Imbruvica (ibrutinib) for pediatric patient...
2022-09-0724 minXtalks Life Science PodcastStatins May Lower Parkinsonism Risk + New Genetic Test to Prevent Deafness in BabiesIn this episode, Xtalks is marking World Parkinson’s Day (April 11) and Parkinson’s Awareness Month, which are observed every year to help raise awareness about the disease and the individuals living with it. To learn more about new Parkinson’s disease research, Ayesha discussed a new study by researchers at Rush University Medical Center that shows statins may help decrease the risk of parkinsonism in older adults. Hear about how parkinsonism relates to Parkinson’s disease and how the neuroprotective effects of statins could prevent Parkinson’s and related conditions.
The editorial team also discussed a new rapid...
2022-04-1328 minXtalks Life Science PodcastClinical Trial Diversity Insights from NIH Experts + WHO and Polluted Air on World Health Day 2022In this episode, Ayesha shared insights she obtained from experts at NIH’s National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) about clinical trial diversity. The panel of experts outlined some of the challenges in recruiting participants from minority and disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds, and talked about an NHLBI initiative based on community outreach that helped recruit more participants from traditionally underrepresented groups for COVID-19 vaccine trials.
The editorial team also talked about the theme of this year’s World Health Day 2022, which is “our planet, our health.” The theme relates to new WHO data that shows most of the world...
2022-04-0636 minXtalks Life Science PodcastMarking Rare Disease Day 2022 by Sharing Colours + Why Black People Remain Underrepresented in Clinical TrialsIn this episode, the editorial team discussed Rare Disease Day which is celebrated every year on February 28 (or February 29 in leap years). This year’s theme was “Share Your Colours,” where individuals with rare diseases were encouraged to share their experiences and aspirations to help raise awareness. The campaign from rarediseaseday.org included a touching video in which patients with rare diseases shared their stories. The editorial team discussed the encouraging growth seen in recent years in rare disease clinical research in the life science industries, providing hope for improved diagnosis, care and treatments for patients with rare diseases.
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2022-03-0247 minXtalks Life Science PodcastXtalks Voices: Magnus Medical CEO Dr. Brett Wingeier Talks About Neurostimulation for DepressionIn this episode, the editorial team had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Brett Wingeier, CEO of neuromodulation MedTech company Magnus Medical about the company’s Magnus System for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). The neurostimulation device received breakthrough device designation from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) last month. The team heard from Dr. Wingeier about the challenges of treating depression and how neuromodulation shows clinical effectiveness for patients. Given this, he explained how the company decided to develop the Magnus System and described how it works. As a 20-year veteran in the field of ne...
2021-11-1724 minXtalks Life Science PodcastClinical Trials Day 2021 + AbbVie’s Humira MonopolyIn this episode, Ayesha talks about Clinical Trials Day 2021 and how the COVID-19 pandemic spurred changes in trial procedures and perceptions of clinical research. At the onset of the pandemic, many clinical trial sites had to be shut down, prompting trial sponsors and practitioners to move to remote, decentralized clinical trial models. Researchers had to adapt quickly to minimize trial disruptions. Xtalks spoke to experts in the field who say decentralized and hybrid trials are here to stay even after the pandemic, as they can improve the patient experience and incorporate modern digital technologies for enhanced data collection and...
2021-05-2633 minXtalks Life Science PodcastJ&J COVID-19 Vaccine and Thrombosis + Medtronic’s Harmony Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve ApprovalMore cases of blood clots in those vaccinated against COVID-19 — this time in six women who took the J&J shot — has US regulators recommending that vaccination efforts be paused. In this episode of the Xtalks Life Science podcast, Ayesha discusses the type of thrombotic events reported in these patients, and the team explores whether the benefits of getting vaccinated outweigh the risks of getting COVID-19, and suffering infection-associated thrombosis.
Also in this episode, Ayesha talks about the approval of the first non-surgical option for patients with severe pulmonary valve regurgitation, a system developed by medical technology veter...
2021-04-2134 minXtalks Life Science PodcastParkinson’s Disease: Link With Melanoma + Drug DevelopmentFDA-mandated clinical holds, strategic partnership breakups and $800 million biotech acquisitions. In this episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, Sarah revisits two Parkinson’s biotech companies — Prevail Therapeutics and Voyager Therapeutics — to see what progress they’ve made in their gene therapy clinical development programs since April 2019. She shares how well the firms have weathered the COVID-19 pandemic, and the team discusses the outlook for the drug development industry in general.
Also in this episode, Ayesha explores the link between Parkinson’s disease and melanoma, and how gene therapies could target both. The team discusses the disconnect between ba...
2021-04-1433 minXtalks Life Science PodcastSocial Media’s Disinformation Dozen + Pfizer’s Latest COVID-19 Vaccine Trial ResultsIn this episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, Ayesha discusses a report from the Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH) and Anti-Vax Watch that shows there are just 12 people behind 65 percent of all online anti-vaccine disinformation. While social media operators such as Facebook and Twitter had vowed to remove vaccine disinformation from their platforms, the disinformation dozen are still active and well on the sites. How can online misinformation be better combatted and are stricter actions on the part of social media networks needed?
Ayesha also talks about the latest clinical trial results for Pfizer/BioNTech’s C...
2021-04-0726 minXtalks Life Science PodcastCaffeine Consumption in Pregnancy + Portable Neuromodulation Stimulator for MSIn this episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, Ayesha discusses the results of a new NIH study that suggest a link between moderate caffeine consumption during pregnancy and lower birth weight and reduced body size. Should pregnant women avoid caffeine altogether, or is this yet another restriction placed on expectant mothers that might not be necessary?
Ayesha also talks about a new medical device that could help improve gait and balance in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). The portable neuromodulation stimulator developed by Helius Medical Technologies helped those with MS achieve a significant improvement in balance i...
2021-03-3127 minXtalks Life Science PodcastWhy You Can’t Compare COVID-19 Vaccine EfficaciesThis podcast was recorded on March 2, 2021
With a number of COVID-19 vaccines now being authorized for use, how do we decide which is the best? Using data from COVID-19 vaccine trials from Pfizer/BioNTech, Oxford/AstraZeneca, Moderna and J&J, Ayesha explains why vaccine efficacies can't be directly compared — and why vaccine messaging needs to reflect this.
Listen to Episode 2 of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast to hear about Mira's experience with getting vaccinated in the UAE, and why "COVID-19 vaccine shopping" should be discouraged.
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COVID-19 Vac...
2021-03-2422 minXtalks Life Science PodcastMask-Associated Dry Eye + Droplet Micron Insulin NeedleThis podcast was recorded on February 23rd, 2021
In Episode 1 of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, Sarah discusses a new condition called “Mask-Associated Dry Eye” and Ayesha talks about Droplet Micron, an innovative insulin needle.
Tune into this episode to hear a clip from Sarah’s interview with Dr. Richard Hom, optometric director at Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, who talks about the impact of prolonged screen time on eye health. And hear from Anu Rajora, director of medical marketing at HTL-STREFA, the company behind the innovative Droplet Micron insulin needle, who explains why technology needs t...
2021-03-2428 minXtalks Life Science PodcastCOVID-19 Pandemic Anniversary + Cancer Biotech AcquisitionsThis podcast was recorded on March 15, 2021
In Episode 3 of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast, the team reflects on the 1-year anniversary of the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ayesha explains how far we’ve come since March 2020 in terms of vaccine development, but discusses the inequities in distribution of the COVID-19 vaccines despite the establishment of the WHO’s COVAX Facility.
Ayesha also discusses the four largest cancer biotech acquisitions of 2021 so far, including deals made by Agilent, Takeda and Amgen. The team discusses the potential benefits of these acquisitions and shares results of a stud...
2021-03-2439 min