ReCode Therapeutics Secures Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Funding, Launches Gene Editing Collaboration, and Names Heather Clark as CEO
核心洞察
ReCode Therapeutics (搜索) received new funding from the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and entered a research collaboration with an undisclosed gene editing company to develop CFTR (搜索)-targeted genetic medicines.
The collaboration combines ReCode's SORT LNP delivery platform with the partner's gene editing technology, aiming to advance candidates toward clinical development and commercialization.
Heather Clark, a nearly 30-year rare disease drug development veteran who helped develop five FDA-approved CF therapies at Vertex, assumed the CEO role effective July 1, 2026.
ReCode Therapeutics (搜索), a clinical-stage biotechnology company, has secured new funding from the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and entered into a research collaboration with an undisclosed leading gene editing company to develop a novel gene editing therapy targeting the underlying genetic cause of cystic fibrosis (搜索) (CF). Simultaneously, the company announced that Heather Clark, M.S., has assumed the role of chief executive officer, effective July 1, 2026.
The dual announcements mark a significant expansion of ReCode's cystic fibrosis (搜索) pipeline, adding a gene editing modality alongside its existing inhaled mRNA-based therapy, RCT2100, which is currently in a fully enrolled Phase 2a study.
Gene Editing Collaboration Targets CFTR (搜索) Mutations
The new research collaboration aims to develop a gene editing therapy designed to correct mutations in the CFTR (搜索) gene, the fundamental genetic driver of cystic fibrosis (搜索). Under the terms of the agreement, ReCode will contribute its proprietary Selective Organ Targeting (SORT) lipid nanoparticle (LNP) delivery platform, while the partner — described only as "a leading gene editing company committed to delivering a new class of differentiated curative genetic therapies" — will provide its gene editing technology.
The companies plan to work jointly to advance one or more development candidates toward clinical development and commercialization. Financial terms of the collaboration and the new funding from the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation were not disclosed.
"Introducing gene editing adds another powerful path to develop therapies for patients still underserved by existing treatments," said Heather Clark, CEO of ReCode Therapeutics (搜索).
RCT2100: Inhaled mRNA Therapy Progressing Through Phase 2a
ReCode's lead CF program, RCT2100, is an inhaled mRNA-based therapy for cystic fibrosis (搜索). The program received Fast Track designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in February 2026. The company confirmed that its Phase 2a study is fully enrolled, with data expected during the fourth quarter.
Leadership Transition: Heather Clark Takes the Helm
Heather Clark, M.S., who joined ReCode in 2022 and most recently served as senior vice president, head of the CF franchise and the program management office, has assumed the role of CEO. In her previous capacity, she led the CF strategy, including oversight of the collaboration with the CF Foundation and advancement of RCT2100, and established ReCode's program management office supporting portfolio decision-making, governance, and operational execution.
Clark brings nearly 30 years of experience in rare disease drug development and program leadership. Prior to ReCode, she was vice president and head of program management at Beren Therapeutics, where she built the program management office and led the integration of a Phase 3 program for Niemann-Pick type C disease. Earlier, she spent more than 20 years at Vertex Pharmaceuticals, where she helped discover and develop five FDA-approved CF therapies and managed Vertex's long-standing alliance with the CF Foundation.
Clark holds a master's degree in chemistry from the University of Arizona and a bachelor's degree in chemistry from Auburn University. She has supported local chapters of the CF Foundation for nearly 25 years.
Shehnaaz Suliman, M.D., MBA, M.Phil., who served as president and chief executive officer since January 2022, has transitioned to the role of executive chair of the board of directors, where she will continue to provide strategic and operational guidance to the company and incoming CEO.
"Heather brings decades of outstanding leadership and deep expertise in cystic fibrosis (搜索) drug development, positioning her well to lead ReCode's gene editing initiatives with this partner and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation," the company stated.