Kiora Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:KPRX) is a clinical‐stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of novel therapies for immune‐mediated and fibrotic diseases of the eye and other organs. The company’s research leverages proprietary small‐molecule and peptide‐based platforms to address unmet medical needs in ocular surface disorders, dermatological conditions and mucosal repair. Kiora’s scientific approach emphasizes both anti‐inflammatory mechanisms and tissue‐regenerative pathways to restore normal function and improve patient quality of life.
The company’s lead development candidates include agents designed to treat severe dry eye disease, ocular graft-versus-host disease and other chronic inflammatory eye conditions. Kiora’s pipeline features TTHX1114, a first‐in‐class adenosine analog formulated as an eye drop to promote corneal healing, and synthetic peptides aimed at modulating immune responses. Preclinical and early‐stage clinical studies have demonstrated these candidates’ potential to reduce inflammation, accelerate tissue repair and decrease reliance on corticosteroids or immunosuppressants.
Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, Kiora Pharmaceuticals has built strategic collaborations with academic institutions and contract research organizations. The company has leveraged these partnerships to advance its preclinical programs and initiate multiple Phase 1 and Phase 2 trials. Throughout its history, Kiora has expanded its intellectual property portfolio, securing patents for its peptide engineering techniques and formulation technologies. The company’s multidisciplinary scientific team brings expertise in ophthalmology, immunology, toxicology and pharmaceutical sciences.
Kiora is led by a management team with decades of combined experience in drug discovery, clinical development and regulatory affairs. At the helm is President and Chief Executive Officer Wendy H. Lewis, M.D., who previously held senior roles at established biopharmaceutical firms. Under Dr. Lewis’s guidance, Kiora aims to progress its lead candidates through pivotal clinical studies and pursue global regulatory approvals. While initially focused on North American clinical trials, the company is exploring opportunities in Europe and Asia through potential licensing agreements and investigator‐sponsored programs.