ATyr Pharma Taps Ex-ChemoCentryx Executive to Lead Commercial Launch of Efzofitimod

San Diego-based biotechnology company ATyr Pharma has made a significant move in preparation for the potential launch of its lead candidate, efzofitimod, by appointing Dalia Rayes as head of commercial for the global efzofitimod franchise. This strategic hire comes as the company gears up to report phase 3 data on efzofitimod in pulmonary sarcoidosis, a rare lung disease, in the third quarter of this year.

Experienced Leadership for a Promising Drug

Rayes brings valuable experience to ATyr, having previously served as the head of commercial at ChemoCentryx for the launch of Tavneos. Her role was pivotal in the product rollout that ultimately led to Amgen's $3.7 billion acquisition of ChemoCentryx in 2022. Prior to her tenure at ChemoCentryx, Rayes spent over a decade at Actelion Pharmaceuticals, where she led the launches of drugs including Opsumit and Valchlor.

The appointment of Rayes aligns with ATyr's broader strategy to build a robust commercial organization for efzofitimod. The company sees parallels between efzofitimod and Tavneos, as both drugs aim to reduce steroid use in patients with rare inflammatory disorders. ATyr estimates that approximately 75% of patients with sarcoidosis receive steroids and believes efzofitimod could help wean patients off these medications.

Market Potential and Launch Preparations

ATyr is positioning efzofitimod in a global market opportunity valued at up to $5 billion. The company has been laying the groundwork for a successful launch, including adding Neurocrine Biosciences' chief commercial officer to its board of directors and conducting extensive market research.

Sanjay Shukla, CEO of ATyr, discussed the company's commercialization strategy during a recent earnings call. He highlighted the exciting potential for ongoing therapy with efzofitimod, while also acknowledging the need to address questions about long-term management of patients and its implications for pricing and market size.

Looking Ahead

As ATyr Pharma approaches the critical phase 3 data readout for efzofitimod, the addition of Dalia Rayes to the team marks a significant step in the company's commercial preparations. With her experience in launching similar products and navigating the rare disease market, Rayes is well-positioned to guide ATyr through the complexities of bringing efzofitimod to market, should the phase 3 data prove positive.

The pharmaceutical industry will be watching closely as ATyr continues to build its commercial infrastructure and prepares for what could be a transformative product launch in the treatment of pulmonary sarcoidosis.