Tyra Taps Blockbuster Vet Habib Dable to Steer Commercial Push

CARLSBAD, CA – April 17, 2026 – Clinical-stage biotech firm Tyra Biosciences (Nasdaq: TYRA) today announced a significant strategic move, appointing biopharmaceutical heavyweight Habib Dable to its Board of Directors. The appointment signals a clear pivot towards commercialization for the company, which has seen its market value soar over the past year on the promise of its precision medicine pipeline targeting Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor (FGFR) biology.

Mr. Dable, a 30-year industry veteran renowned for building blockbuster franchises and steering companies through transformative growth, joins Tyra as it prepares to advance its lead drug candidates. His appointment coincides with the planned departure of board member Gilla Kaplan at the company's next annual meeting, a transition that underscores a strategic shift from early-stage development to late-stage commercial readiness.

"As TYRA advances into its next phase of growth, Habib brings the kind of experience and strategic insight that will be critical at the Board level," said Todd Harris, Chief Executive Officer of TYRA. "His proven track record in global product launches and strategic execution will be invaluable as we look to develop and commercialize dabogratinib."

A Blockbuster Architect for a New Era

Habib Dable's track record is one of significant value creation and commercial success. He most recently served as President and CEO of Acceleron Pharma, where he orchestrated a period of immense growth that culminated in the company's acquisition by Merck for a staggering $11.5 billion in 2021. During his tenure, he generated over $10 billion in shareholder value and oversaw the company's first blockbuster launch.

Prior to his success at Acceleron, Dable spent 22 years at Bayer AG in roles of increasing global responsibility. As President of U.S. Pharmaceuticals and later as Executive Vice President and Global Head of Specialty Medicine, he led commercial strategy across multiple therapeutic areas. Notably, he oversaw the global launch of the ophthalmology powerhouse EYLEA® and other major brands like Stivarga® and Xofigo®, cementing his reputation as an expert in bringing transformative therapies to market.

This deep commercial acumen is precisely what Tyra seeks as it advances its pipeline. Harris added, "His experience building leading franchises in specialty medicine aligns with our ambition to unlock the full potential of FGFR3 inhibition and deliver meaningful therapies to patients."

Mr. Dable himself highlighted the scientific foundation and commercial potential at the company. "FGFR3 represents one of the most compelling and difficult-to-drug targets in oncology and genetic conditions, and dabogratinib is uniquely differentiated and positioned to realize meaningful potential," he stated. "With its 3x3 strategy, TYRA is building a broad, multi-indication franchise that has the potential to drive substantial long-term commercial impact."

Targeting a Multi-Billion Dollar Opportunity

Tyra Biosciences is focused on a class of targeted therapies known as FGFR inhibitors, which block signaling pathways that can drive the growth of certain cancers and genetic conditions. The company's proprietary SNÅP platform is designed to rapidly engineer next-generation drugs with higher potency and selectivity.

At the forefront of its pipeline is dabogratinib (also known as TYRA-300), an oral selective FGFR3 inhibitor with potential in several indications. The most significant of these is achondroplasia, the most common form of dwarfism. The global market for achondroplasia treatments is projected to explode from just over $238 million in 2025 to more than $5.3 billion by 2035. Currently, the market is dominated by BioMarin's Voxzogo, a daily injectable. Dabogratinib's development as a convenient oral therapy represents a potential paradigm shift in treatment and a major competitive advantage.

Dabogratinib is also being developed for cancers of the urinary system, including intermediate-risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (IR NMIBC) and low-grade upper tract urothelial carcinoma (LG-UTUC). With data from its Phase 2 trial in IR NMIBC expected this quarter, the drug could address a significant unmet need for effective, non-invasive oral treatments in a patient population largely managed with invasive procedures. Beyond dabogratinib, Tyra's pipeline includes TYRA-430 for liver cancer and TYRA-200 for cholangiocarcinoma, demonstrating a broad strategic approach to the FGFR space.

Investor Confidence and Strategic Signaling

The appointment of Dable is more than just a personnel change; it's a powerful signal to the market. Tyra's stock has delivered a remarkable 294% return over the past year, with its market capitalization approaching $2 billion. This performance reflects growing optimism in its scientific platform and pipeline. Bringing in a leader who successfully navigated a multi-billion-dollar acquisition is a clear statement of intent to maximize that value.

Analysts have responded favorably, with a strong consensus "Buy" rating and price targets suggesting significant upside. The transition on the board, with early-stage growth leader Gilla Kaplan making way for commercial expert Habib Dable, is a textbook move for a maturing biotech. Bob More, Chairman of TYRA, thanked Kaplan for her "important role in shaping TYRA's progress" during its foundational years.

With a strong balance sheet, a promising pipeline targeting lucrative markets, and now a proven commercial strategist on its board, Tyra Biosciences appears poised to translate its scientific innovation into tangible market success. The industry will be watching closely as the company, now armed with new expertise, advances its key programs through pivotal clinical trials and toward potential commercial launch.