Ann Barbier says adios to Agios as she takes up Translate Bio role

Agios and Shire vet Ann Barbier, M.D., Ph.D., has become the new chief medical officer at RNA biotech Translate Bio.

Barbier becomes the new CMO at a time of burgeoning hope in RNA research, coming a week after RNAi pioneer Alnylam posted a set of stellar results for its patisiran in hereditary TTR amyloidosis, and coming off the back of a number of setbacks in the area over the past few years.

Under her new role, Barbier will be responsible for leading all clinical research and development, medical affairs and related functions at the Cambridge, Massachusetts-based biotech.

This includes its early-stage work on cystic fibrosis, as well as ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC) deficiency, which are both preclinical, although its CF program is slated for human trials from next year.

She comes direct from Celgene-backed Agios, a Fierce 15 winner in 2009, where she was VP of clinical development in rare genetic diseases, having also worked in genetics diseases and pharmaceuticals at Shire.

"We are thrilled to welcome Barbier to Translate Bio," said Ronald Renaud, CEO at Translate Bio.

"She is a proven leader with a track record of advancing clinical research through all phases of development. Additionally, Barbier’s rare disease expertise and extensive experience engaging regulatory agencies make her an invaluable asset as we look ahead to initiating our first clinical study in cystic fibrosis in early 2018."