
Core Viewpoint - Galectin Therapeutics has appointed Dr. Khurram Jamil as Chief Medical Officer, emphasizing his expertise in liver disease and leadership in the NAVIGATE clinical trial for belapectin, a drug targeting MASH cirrhosis [1][2][3]. Company Overview - Galectin Therapeutics focuses on developing novel therapies for chronic liver disease and cancer, with its lead drug belapectin targeting galectin-3, which is involved in inflammatory and fibrotic diseases [4]. - The company has received Fast Track designation from the U.S. FDA for belapectin, which is aimed at treating metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) with cirrhosis [4]. Clinical Development - The NAVIGATE Phase 2b/3 trial is evaluating the efficacy and safety of belapectin for preventing esophageal varices in patients with cirrhosis due to MASH, with 357 patients randomized across 14 countries [3]. - Interim top-line data from the Phase 2b portion of the NAVIGATE trial is expected in December 2024 [3]. Leadership Transition - Dr. Khurram Jamil succeeds Dr. Pol Boudes as Chief Medical Officer, with the company expressing gratitude for Dr. Boudes' service [2].