UNITY Biotechnology [NASDAQ: UBX] has appointed Federico Grossi, M.D., Ph.D., as its new Chief Medical Officer, effective January 6, 2025. Dr. Grossi brings over 20 years of experience in the biotech industry, particularly in ophthalmology, and will play a crucial role in advancing UNITY's pipeline of therapeutics targeting diseases of aging. His appointment comes as UNITY approaches key data readouts for UBX1325, currently in Phase 2b trials for diabetic macular edema (DME).
Dr. Grossi's Background and Expertise
Prior to joining UNITY, Dr. Grossi served as Chief Medical Officer at Apellis Pharmaceuticals, where he led the development of SYFOVRE for geographic atrophy and oversaw the approval and commercial launch of EMPAVELI for paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria. During his 13-year tenure at Apellis, he managed multiple clinical studies across various therapeutic areas and established medical affairs and safety functions. Anirvan Ghosh, Ph.D., CEO of UNITY, expressed confidence that Dr. Grossi's experience will support UNITY's strategic vision and accelerate efforts to deliver disease-modifying therapeutics.
UBX1325 and the ASPIRE Trial
Dr. Grossi's appointment is particularly timely as UNITY anticipates topline 24-week results from its Phase 2b ASPIRE study of UBX1325 in diabetic macular edema (DME). UBX1325 is a senolytic treatment being developed for retinal diseases. Diabetic macular edema is a common complication of diabetes that affects the retina and can lead to vision loss. The ASPIRE trial is designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of UBX1325 in patients with DME. The results of this trial are expected to provide critical insights into the potential of UBX1325 as a treatment for DME.
UNITY's Focus on Senescent Cell Modulation
UNITY Biotechnology is focused on developing therapeutics to slow, halt, or reverse diseases of aging by selectively eliminating or modulating senescent cells. Senescent cells are cells that have stopped dividing but remain metabolically active and can contribute to tissue dysfunction and age-related diseases. UNITY's current focus is on ophthalmologic and neurologic diseases. Dr. Grossi stated his excitement to join UNITY and advance UBX1325, aiming to provide new treatment options for patients with progressive retinal diseases.
