Scynexis Adds Kidney Disease Expert to Board Amid SCY-770…

Event summary

Scynexis appointed Steven K. Burke, M.D., to its Board of Directors on September 18, 2026.
Dr. Burke brings 30 years of drug development experience, particularly in chronic kidney disease.
He previously served as Chief Medical Officer at Akebia Therapeutics, leading development of Vafseo® and Auryxia®.
Scynexis is developing SCY-770, an AMPK activator for Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD).
SCY-770 has Orphan Drug Designation from the FDA and is preparing for Phase 2 trials.

The big picture

Scynexis's appointment of Dr. Burke underscores its strategic pivot toward rare disease therapies, particularly in kidney disease. The move comes as the company prepares to advance SCY-770 into Phase 2 trials, a critical milestone for its long-term growth. The biotech sector has seen increased focus on orphan drugs, driven by regulatory incentives and unmet medical needs. Scynexis's ability to leverage Dr. Burke's expertise could position it as a key player in this niche market.

What we're watching

Clinical Progress: The pace at which SCY-770 advances through Phase 2 trials will determine its viability as a disease-modifying therapy for ADPKD.
Strategic Focus: Whether Scynexis can balance its antifungal expertise with its new focus on rare disease therapies.
Board Impact: How Dr. Burke's industry experience will influence Scynexis's drug development strategy and regulatory navigation.