Suma Krishnan, a veteran in the pharmaceutical sector, was already well into her 50s when she took a bold step—co-founding a biotech venture aimed at tackling a devastating condition known as “butterfly skin,” formally called dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB). Nearly two decades of dedication and scientific innovation have now brought that vision to fruition.
Krishnan’s company, Krystal Biotech, hit a historic milestone when its topical gene therapy, Vyjuvek, earned FDA approval. This pioneering treatment uses a viral vector—a modified version of herpes simplex virus—to deliver functional COL7A1 genes to patients’ skin, enabling the production of type VII collagen. The therapy effectively patches the fragile connective tissue between layers of skin, reducing blistering and aiding wound healing. Vyjuvek’s commercial success has propelled the company’s market capitalization to an impressive $4.4 billion.
The journey behind Vyjuvek is a tale of persistence. Krystal Biotech’s pipeline includes additional promising viral-based gene therapies currently in clinical phases, targeting both DEB and other rare dermatological disorders. Krishnan’s leadership—bridging decades of pharmaceutical industry experience with the modern rigor of biotech development—has been central to this achievement.
In an industry where groundbreaking treatments often remain elusive, Krystal’s accomplishments serve as a testament to the transformative power of focused research, strategic vision, and experienced stewardship—even when launched later in one’s career.
