Welcome to Partnology’s Biotech Leader Spotlight Series, where we highlight the remarkable accomplishments and visionary leadership of biotech industry pioneers. This series is about showcasing the groundbreaking strides made by exceptional leaders who have transformed scientific possibilities into tangible realities. Through insightful interviews, we invite you to join us in following the inspiring journeys of these executives who continue to shape the landscape of the biotech industry. This week we are recognizing:
Liliana Maruri Avidal, Chief Scientific Officer
Liliana Maruri Avidal is serving as the Chief Scientific Officer of ReIGNITE Therapeutics, a biotech company using Directed Evolution to develop high-capacity viral vectors to unlock the full potential of genetic medicine. Previously, Liliana was the Senior Director of Preclinical Development at Mantra Bio, as well as a Scientific Advisor at Pfizer and 4D Molecular Therapeutics. She has over 15 years of experience in virology, oncolytic virotherapy, viral vector technologies, cell biology and gene therapy, discovering functions of viral and cellular proteins and their mechanisms of action in preclinical studies and translational studies in academia and industry. She earned her Ph.D. in Biochemistry at the National Autonomous University of Mexico Biotechnology Institute.
Can you give me a summary of your career in your own words, noting some of the most pivotal moments or decisions in your career?
I did my PhD in Mexico, focusing on rotavirus and other viruses. My expertise spans biology, molecular biology, and later, gene therapy and cell biology to generate therapies. During my postdoc at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), I delved into how viruses hijack host cells. Working with Bernard Moss’s lab, I tackled a long-standing debate on the origin of viral membranes. The culmination of this project was both challenging and rewarding. Afterward, I sought to apply my skills in industry, joining a startup in South Korea focused on oncolytic virus therapy called SillaJen as their Director of R&D. It was a fascinating experience adapting to a new country and culture while navigating the transition from academia to industry.
Upon returning to the US, I collaborated with David Kirn at 4D Molecular Therapeutics on gene therapy with AAV directed evolution. Subsequently, I led the team at IGNITE Immunotherapy, a company David and I co-founded from scratch with support from Pfizer. Building IGNITE into a successful venture, we developed a candidate that was eventually acquired by Pfizer and advanced to clinical trials. During my tenure at IGNITE, we achieved groundbreaking progress in direct evolution for oncolytic viruses.
Transitioning to Mantra Bio, I explored extracellular vesicles and their potential applications, leveraging my virology background as the Senior Director of Preclinical Development. Afterward, David Kirn and I co-founded ReIGNITE Therapeutics, where we’re currently focused on high-capacity and oncolytic viruses, though we’re still in stealth mode, preparing for our public launch.
Could you expand more on the programs you’ve worked on, maybe highlighting those you are most proud of or passionate about?
I have worked in different programs around gene therapy with AAV, extracellular vesicles and oncolytic viruses with Vaccinia and Adenovirus. One of the programs I am most proud of is the development of a vaccinia oncolytic virus during my time at Ignite in collaboration with Pfizer. We were able to generate and select a lead candidate that went into the clinic in only 3 years. We started from having only the idea and builded a lead candidate with this partnership.
We also generated proof of concept that it is possible to engineer a large DNA virus such as vaccinia to employ directed evolution and select the best variant to use for intravenous delivery. We were able to build a great team and partnership in a short period of time that concluded with the acquisition of Ignite by Pfizer. Before then, I worked in gene therapy with AAV applying directed evolution for a virus that can transduce photoreceptors in the retina. During my time at 4DMT some of those variants that were discovered at that time are now in the clinic with outstanding results.
What do you see as the most promising technologies in biotech over the next 10 years?
Well, there are many advancements on the horizon, right? We’re seeing novel approaches to cell therapy emerging, along with innovative uses of traditional technologies such as small molecules. The landscape of biotech is evolving rapidly, fueled by our ability to generate and analyze vast amounts of data. This technological progress, coupled with advances in AI and predictive modeling, holds immense promise for the future. We now have deeper insights into diseases, allowing us to predict outcomes and access more comprehensive preclinical models.
I believe the key lies in integrating these technologies to drive progress. It’s not about a single breakthrough, but rather a synergy of different approaches tailored to specific disease areas. By leveraging data, computational analysis, and predictive modeling, we can revolutionize the way we understand and treat diseases. I foresee significant strides towards finding cures in the next decade or two, transforming areas that were previously thought to be beyond our reach. It’s an incredibly exciting time to be in biotech, and I’m eager to see where these advancements will lead us.
Are there any specific innovations or companies that you’re following right now that you find exciting?
I mean, there are various companies out there, each with their own unique focus. Some I follow closely because they’re direct competitors, while others are pioneering new approaches that catch my attention. For instance, there’s a growing trend of companies leveraging extensive data to predict disease outcomes and identify potential treatments. This predictive analytics approach holds immense potential for making significant impacts. While established pharmaceutical companies often drive progress through clinical trials, there are also numerous mid-stage companies and startups making groundbreaking contributions. So, it’s an exciting landscape with a diverse range of players shaping the future of biotech.
With the experience and insights you have gained, what advice would you give to young people aspiring to work in the biotech industry?
When I began my career, I wasn’t fully aware of the diverse opportunities within biotech and related sciences beyond the traditional academic trajectory leading to professorship. What I’ve come to realize, through interactions with individuals from various backgrounds, is that there are a myriad of paths to contribute to science. It’s about recognizing and leveraging your unique soft skills—whether it’s effective communication, writing prowess, or other talents. These skills can lead you to different roles within biotech that align with your strengths and interests. I’ve observed a shared passion for science among many, yet sometimes people struggle to apply their skill set in ways that truly fulfill them. It’s essential to assess your skills, network, and learn from others’ experiences. By doing so, you can uncover opportunities that allow you to make significant contributions to the field.
