Alberto Auricchio appointed as President of the European Society of Gene & cell Therapy
Oct 28, 2024
Naples, 28 October 2024 - Alberto Auricchio, Director of TIGEM, has apponted as the new President of the European Society of Gene and Cell Therapy (ESGCT). This celebrates his long-standing contributions to gene therapy, particularly in treating genetic ocular and metabolic diseases.
As a pioneering figure, Auricchio has significantly advanced AAV (adeno-associated virus) vector technology, a platform central to gene therapy’s success. His research has led to critical developments in treating inherited retinal diseases, notably contributing to Luxturna, the first FDA-approved gene therapy for an ocular condition. His work goes beyond retinal diseases, with a focus on genetic liver disorders, such as mucopolysaccharidosis VI (MPS VI), where he has spearheaded AAV-based therapies capable of providing sustained benefits through a single administration—a potential game-changer for patients suffering from rare and debilitating conditions. Beyond his role as a scientist, Auricchio is also the founder of AAVantgarde Bio, a biotechnology company aiming to overcome existing limitations of AAV vectors. This company focuses on delivering larger genetic payloads, expanding the scope of gene therapy applications for conditions that current vectors cannot address, such as Usher syndrome and Stargardt disease. Auricchio’s entrepreneurial spirit and scientific rigor have not only positioned him as a leader within ESGCT but have also bolstered his reputation worldwide, providing a path forward for genetic therapies for previously untreatable diseases.
As Scientific Director of TIGEM, Auricchio will be instrumental in advancing research aimed at bridging lab discoveries and clinical application, and he aims to further develop TIGEM’s translational focus. This expansion will not only deepen TIGEM’s impact in therapeutic innovation but also enhance its role as a global hub for gene therapy research.
Auricchio is also widely celebrated for his mentorship and dedication to cultivating new talent in the field of gene therapy. As an educator at the University of Naples Federico II, he has inspired numerous young scientists, encouraging rigorous research and fostering a collaborative environment.
As ESGCT President, Auricchio is set to guide the society during a time of rapid advances in gene and cell therapies, with a vision that includes fostering collaborative research and accelerating regulatory paths to make gene therapy accessible to more patients. His leadership is expected to strengthen the role of gene therapy in clinical practice and inspire innovative approaches in genetic medicine across Europe and beyond.
As a pioneering figure, Auricchio has significantly advanced AAV (adeno-associated virus) vector technology, a platform central to gene therapy’s success. His research has led to critical developments in treating inherited retinal diseases, notably contributing to Luxturna, the first FDA-approved gene therapy for an ocular condition. His work goes beyond retinal diseases, with a focus on genetic liver disorders, such as mucopolysaccharidosis VI (MPS VI), where he has spearheaded AAV-based therapies capable of providing sustained benefits through a single administration—a potential game-changer for patients suffering from rare and debilitating conditions. Beyond his role as a scientist, Auricchio is also the founder of AAVantgarde Bio, a biotechnology company aiming to overcome existing limitations of AAV vectors. This company focuses on delivering larger genetic payloads, expanding the scope of gene therapy applications for conditions that current vectors cannot address, such as Usher syndrome and Stargardt disease. Auricchio’s entrepreneurial spirit and scientific rigor have not only positioned him as a leader within ESGCT but have also bolstered his reputation worldwide, providing a path forward for genetic therapies for previously untreatable diseases.
As Scientific Director of TIGEM, Auricchio will be instrumental in advancing research aimed at bridging lab discoveries and clinical application, and he aims to further develop TIGEM’s translational focus. This expansion will not only deepen TIGEM’s impact in therapeutic innovation but also enhance its role as a global hub for gene therapy research.
Auricchio is also widely celebrated for his mentorship and dedication to cultivating new talent in the field of gene therapy. As an educator at the University of Naples Federico II, he has inspired numerous young scientists, encouraging rigorous research and fostering a collaborative environment.
As ESGCT President, Auricchio is set to guide the society during a time of rapid advances in gene and cell therapies, with a vision that includes fostering collaborative research and accelerating regulatory paths to make gene therapy accessible to more patients. His leadership is expected to strengthen the role of gene therapy in clinical practice and inspire innovative approaches in genetic medicine across Europe and beyond.