Link Biologics has appointed Niall Martin to its board as the company prepares to advance its TSG-6-based therapies into clinical development

Link Biologics has strengthened its board with the appointment of drug discovery executive Niall Martin as it progresses its TSG-6-based therapeutic pipeline towards first-in-human studies.

The UK biotech is developing a portfolio of biologic therapies based on tumour necrosis factor-stimulated gene 6 (TSG-6), a protein associated with anti-inflammatory and tissue repair pathways. The company’s lead programmes are focused on ophthalmology, with broader potential across inflammatory and degenerative diseases.

Martin brings more than two decades of experience in translational science and biotech company building. He previously served as chief executive and co-founder of Artios Therapeutics, where he led financing rounds totalling more than £300m to advance a DNA damage response platform, including ATR inhibitor ART0380 and Pol theta inhibitor ART6043, into clinical proof-of-concept studies.

Earlier in his career, he co-founded MISSION Therapeutics, developing a deubiquitylating enzyme inhibitor platform, and was head of KuDOS Pharmaceuticals, where he co-invented the PARP inhibitor olaparib, later acquired and commercialised by AstraZeneca as Lynparza.

Reuben Dawkins, chief executive of Link Biologics, said: “Dr Martin’s deep expertise in translational science, biotech strategy and capital markets makes him an exceptional addition to our Board. His appointment strengthens our strategic direction at a pivotal moment for the Company, supporting our ambition to expand and accelerate our TSG-6-based therapeutic pipeline into the clinic.”

Link’s most advanced programme, LB001 for dry eye disease, is partnered with Théa Group under a deal valued at more than £200m. The therapy is expected to enter clinical development in 2027, with defined development milestones built into the agreement.

Martin said: “Inflammatory tissue degenerative diseases remain a major unmet medical need, with many patients lacking effective treatment options. Link Biologics is pioneering a new therapeutic class with its proprietary TSG-6-based therapies, offering a unique mode of action through harnessing and fine tuning the body’s own anti-inflammatory and tissue reparative pathways. I recognise the compelling potential of Link’s approach and look forward to working alongside the accomplished team to advance its TSG-6-based therapies.”

The appointment comes as the company positions its TSG-6 platform for clinical entry, with ophthalmology leading its development strategy.