#USA #Tel Aviv #Lutris Pharma #LUT014 #Sumant Ramachandra

Lutris Pharma Announces New Leadership

Lutris Pharma, a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company based in Tel Aviv, Israel, has recently announced a significant change in its leadership team. Effective April 20, 2025, Dr. Sumant Ramachandra, M.D., Ph.D., is stepping in as the Chief Executive Officer and a member of the Board of Directors, succeeding the company's co-founder, Dr. Noa Shelach, who will now take on the role of Chief Operating Officer.

Vision and Experience

Dr. Ramachandra brings with him an extensive background in the biopharmaceutical sector, with notable expertise in oncology, immunology, and advanced therapeutics. His appointment comes at a critical time for Lutris, who is focused on further developing its leading compound, LUT014 gel. This innovative approach aims to enhance the efficacy of anti-cancer therapies while simultaneously improving the quality of life for patients experiencing dose-limiting toxicities associated with current treatments.

Ran Nussbaum, a Board member of Lutris Pharma and co-founder of The Pontifax Group, expressed enthusiasm about Dr. Ramachandra's appointment, emphasizing the wealth of knowledge he offers the firm as it enters an exciting period of growth and clinical development. "Sumant's insights will be invaluable as we progress with our clinical trials and refine our treatment strategies," he stated.

Dr. Shelach, who will continue to play an integral part of the team, noted the substantial progress Lutris has made, particularly in bringing LUT014 from concept to phase 2 clinical trials. In her new role, she is dedicated to guiding the pipeline of products, ensuring that Lutris maintains its commitment to drug development that prioritizes both efficacy and patient wellbeing.

A Focus on Patient-Centric Solutions

The core belief driving Lutris Pharma's mission is that patients should not have to choose between effective cancer treatment and maintaining a good quality of life. The company’s innovative topical therapies aim to mitigate side effects from anti-EGFR treatments and radiation, focusing particularly on reducing dermatitis and other skin reactions commonly experienced.

Dr. Ramachandra commented on the importance of Lutris's work: "I am honored to join Lutris Pharma at such an important juncture in the company’s history. The focus on improving treatment effectiveness while preserving a patient's quality of life addresses a massive unmet requirement in oncology. I look forward to collaborating closely with Noa and the team to advance these essential therapies to the patients who need them most."

The lead program, LUT014—an innovative topical B-Raf Inhibitor designed to treat side effects related specifically to anti-EGFR therapy—has already garnered Orphan Drug Designation from the FDA, underscoring the significance of Lutris's research. It will address concerns about compliance with anti-cancer therapies, where skin toxicity can lead to reduced treatment adherence.

Dr. Ramachandra's impressive background includes founding SR Global Health, LLC, a firm focused on healthcare advisory services, and previously serving as the CEO of ImmPACT Bio USA, Inc., where he succeeded in transforming the organization into an industry leader in cell therapy. Under his leadership, ImmPACT Bio secured significant funding and multiple FDA Designations for its ground-breaking therapeutic programs.

Before this, Dr. Ramachandra held senior positions at Baxter International and Pfizer, demonstrating a robust history of shaping drug development and commercial strategies that result in significant advancements in pharmaceuticals and therapies.

Academic Credentials

Dr. Ramachandra is well-educated in his field, holding a MD and Ph.D. in Immuno-Oncology from Rutgers University, along with an MBA from The Wharton School. His commitment to innovation and excellence has been recognized widely, making him one of the 100 most influential leaders by the Los Angeles Business Journal in 2024-2025.

Lutris Pharma's aspirations extend far beyond mere commercial success; the team is driven by a profound mission to significantly improve patients' lives battling cancer through innovative treatment solutions. The future looks promising as they prepare to navigate their next chapter under new leadership.

For further inquiries, please visit Lutris Pharma or reach out to their communications contact based in the U.S.