1. Serina appointed Dr. Joshua Thomas as VP and Head of Chemistry. 2. Dr. Thomas will enhance chemistry efforts for optimizing POZ-based candidates. 3. The POZ platform aims to improve efficacy and safety of drug delivery. 4. SER-252, an IND candidate, targets advanced Parkinson's disease treatment. 5. Serina plans to advance SER-252 to clinical testing in 2025.
FAQ
Why Bullish?
Dr. Thomas's expertise enhances Serina's capabilities. The ongoing development of SER-252 shows promise, reminiscent of past successful IND advancements in biotech.
How important is it?
The article represents a significant leadership change that can directly affect research outcomes, critical for SER's future.
Why Long Term?
If SER-252's clinical trials succeed, long-term positive market perception is likely, akin to prior drug approvals enhancing firm valuations.
Serina Therapeutics Appoints Dr. Joshua Thomas as VP, Head of Chemistry
HUNTSVILLE, Dec. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Serina Therapeutics, Inc. (NYSE American: SER), a clinical-stage biotechnology company, has announced the appointment of Dr. Joshua Thomas as Vice President and Head of Chemistry. Dr. Thomas will lead both internal and external chemistry efforts aimed at optimizing the company's POZ Platform™ drug candidates, significantly contributing to the efficient transition from discovery to development within the company’s pipeline.
Dr. Joshua Thomas: Background and Insights
Prior to joining Serina, Dr. Thomas amassed over 13 years of experience at Mersana Therapeutics, where he played a crucial role in enhancing the company's discovery chemistry capabilities. Noteworthy during his tenure was his contribution to the development of a novel STING agonist ADC platform. He has spearheaded research initiatives in antibody drug conjugate (ADC) technologies, focusing on innovative “warhead” and linker elements that have enabled several platforms to progress into clinical trials.
Comments from Leadership
Steve Ledger, Chief Executive Officer of Serina Therapeutics, expressed enthusiasm about the new appointment, stating, “Our collaboration with Josh as a consultant and member of our Scientific Advisory Board over the past two years has profoundly influenced the evolution of our foundational POZ chemistry platform and strategy.” His leadership in expanding the POZ platform into new therapeutic modalities marks a critical step for SER as the company diversifies its small molecule opportunities.
Dr. Thomas's Academic Credentials
Dr. Thomas holds a Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry from the University of Florida and a B.S. in Chemistry from Wingate University. He completed his postdoctoral training in cancer research at the National Cancer Institute. His extensive experience has led to the development of multiple candidates, patents, and publications within small molecules and conjugate-based modalities, directly aligning with Serina’s strategy for sustained discovery and development of polymer-enabled therapeutics.
Vision for the Future
Expressing his excitement about joining Serina Therapeutics, Dr. Thomas stated, “I am thrilled to lead our chemistry efforts as we advance the POZ platform to deliver differentiated, patient-focused therapies.” Having collaborated closely with Serina for two years, he has gained insights into the scientific rigor and organizational strength that position the company to capitalize on opportunities in POZ-based medicines.
About Serina Therapeutics
Serina is a clinical-stage biotechnology firm focused on developing a pipeline of drug candidates targeting neurological diseases and other conditions. The POZ Platform™ offers the potential to enhance the efficacy and safety profiles of various therapeutic modalities, including small molecules, RNA-based therapeutics, and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). The company operates from Huntsville, Alabama, on the grounds of the HudsonAlpha Institute of Biotechnology.
Understanding the POZ Platform™
Serina’s proprietary POZ technology utilizes a synthetic, water-soluble, low-viscosity polymer known as poly(2-oxazoline). This innovative technology is engineered to allow greater control over drug loading and precise rates of release for drugs administered via subcutaneous injection. By leveraging this technology, Serina aims to optimize the pharmacokinetic profiles of drugs, thereby improving therapeutic outcomes.
About SER-252
SER-252 is an investigational therapy based on apomorphine, designed to provide continuous dopaminergic stimulation (CDS) for individuals with advanced Parkinson's disease. Preliminary studies suggest that SER-252 may alleviate levodopa-related motor complications (dyskinesia) without significant skin reactions. Serina aims to initiate clinical testing for SER-252 in 2025.
Cautionary Note
This press release contains forward-looking statements about Serina’s operations and potential developments. The realization of these statements could involve substantial risks and uncertainties, including those related to regulatory approvals and clinical trial results. For a comprehensive discussion of risks, please refer to the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024, available through the SEC.