Genespire Welcomes New Leadership: Karen Aiach-Pignet
Karen Aiach-Pignet Takes Charge
Genespire, an innovative biotechnology company, is excited to share that Karen Aiach-Pignet has been named the new Chief Executive Officer. Her arrival comes after Dr. Julia Berretta stepped down from the CEO role, marking an important change in the company’s leadership.
Extensive Background in Gene Therapy
Karen brings a robust history in gene therapy, having previously founded Lysogene, a global leader in treating genetic neurodegenerative diseases. During her impactful time there, she played a pivotal role in developing an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector specifically for the rare condition, Sanfilippo Type A. Additionally, she led an international clinical trial that attained Phase 3 status, successfully securing substantial funding through various partnerships and listing the company on the Euronext Stock Exchange.
Driving Innovations at Genespire
With Karen at the helm, Genespire is poised to advance its leading candidate, GENE202, in clinical development. GENE202 addresses methylmalonic acidemia (MMA), a serious genetic disorder that interferes with the body’s ability to metabolize certain amino acids and fats, often resulting in significant health challenges from a young age. At present, there are no disease-modifying treatments available for MMA, making Genespire’s efforts critical for pediatric patients facing this challenge.
Karen Aiach-Pignet’s Vision Going Forward
Reflecting on her new position, Karen remarked, "I'm deeply committed to a future where patients suffering from metabolic diseases have access to the treatments they need. Leading Genespire in creating transformative therapies for those who desperately need them is both an honor and a significant undertaking. Our unique ISLV technology, along with our devoted investors and skilled team, are essential to our envisioned success. The partnership with Sofinnova Partners and other esteemed investors enhances our mission.”
Applause from the Leadership Team
Joern Aldag, Chairman of Genespire, expressed pride in the team's overall accomplishments and thanked Dr. Julia Berretta for her exceptional contributions over the past four and a half years. "Karen’s vast expertise and energy in gene therapy for rare diseases, especially in pediatric care, serve as an inspiration. Her drive and ability to achieve swift results will be vital as we move our lead lentiviral therapy into clinical trials," he emphasized.
Recognized Expertise in Healthcare and Research
In addition to her leadership experience, Karen has made significant contributions to the field. She has served as a founding executive member of the International Rare Diseases Research Consortium and has participated in the Paediatric Committee at the European Medicines Agency. Her dedication has been acknowledged through several awards, including the Ordre National du Merite, a distinguished French order of merit.
To further her professional growth, Karen recently completed a Digital Health program at Harvard Business School, supplementing her earlier education in economics at the Institut d’Études Européennes at the University Paris 8.
About Genespire
Genespire operates at the forefront of biotechnology, focusing on the development of off-the-shelf gene therapies using immune shielded lentiviral vectors (ISLVs). These innovative vectors enable lifelong production of treatments directly in the patient’s liver, filling crucial gaps for inherited metabolic diseases. Founded in 2020 by notable leaders in gene therapy, Genespire continues to evolve as a promising spin-off from the SR-Tiget research institute based in Milan, Italy. If you’d like to know more, please feel free to reach out via email.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Karen Aiach-Pignet?
Karen Aiach-Pignet is the newly appointed CEO of Genespire, bringing extensive experience in gene therapy to her role.
What significant achievements does Karen have in her career?
She founded Lysogene, led important clinical trials for rare genetic disorders, and was instrumental in bringing treatments to the market.
What is GENE202 and why is it important?
GENE202 is Genespire's lead candidate targeting methylmalonic acidemia, a critical genetic disorder that currently lacks disease-modifying treatments.
What technologies is Genespire working on?
Genespire focuses on off-the-shelf gene therapies that utilize immune shielded lentiviral vectors (ISLVs) to treat genetic conditions.
How can I find out more about Genespire?
You can discover additional information about Genespire’s projects and research through their contact avenues.
