Core Viewpoint - Inhibikase Therapeutics has appointed Mark Iwicki as the new CEO and Amit Munshi as the independent Chair of the Board, effective February 14, 2025, marking a significant leadership transition aimed at advancing the company's development in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) treatments [2][4]. Leadership Changes - Mark Iwicki replaces Dr. Milton H. Werner as CEO, bringing over 30 years of biopharmaceutical experience, including previous roles at KALA BIO and Civitas Therapeutics [5]. - Amit Munshi takes over as Chair of the Board from Roberto Bellini, who will remain a director [2][4]. Strategic Focus - The new leadership team is positioned to drive Inhibikase forward, particularly in the development of IkT-001Pro, a treatment for PAH, which is currently advancing to a Phase 2b clinical trial [3][10]. - The company aims to leverage $110 million in proceeds from an October financing to support the clinical development of IkT-001Pro [3]. Product Development - IkT-001Pro is a prodrug of imatinib mesylate designed to improve patient experience and reduce side effects in the treatment of PAH [10]. - The leadership emphasizes the significant unmet needs in PAH management and the potential impact of IkT-001Pro on patient outcomes [3]. Inducement Awards - In connection with Iwicki's appointment, the company granted inducement awards including stock options for up to 6,168,148 shares, with vesting conditions tied to performance metrics [8][9].
Inhibikase Appoints Industry Veteran Mark Iwicki as CEO to Drive Next Stage of Company’s Growth