Alcatraz Therapeutics
Transforming scientific discoveries into therapies for ALS and neurodegenerative disorders.
About us
Alcatraz Therapeutics is a preclinical-stage innovative biotechnology company dedicated to the development of therapies for neurodegenerative diseases, with a particular focus to interfere with TDP-43 dysfunction.
Our mission is to translate breakthrough science into disease-modifying treatments that address the underlying biological causes of neurodegeneration. We are building a pipeline of innovative small-molecule based therapeutics targeting key molecular mechanisms involved in disease progression, including TDP-43 dysfunction, one of the most compelling and validated drivers of ALS and related neurodegenerative disorders.
Alcatraz Therapeutics is advancing two novel therapeutic approaches designed to restore critical cellular functions affected by TDP-43 pathology. Our lead program focuses on correcting Stathmin-2 splicing, a promising approach to restoring neuronal health and function, while our second program aims to promote TDP-43 nuclear retention, helping prevent the pathological processes associated with neuronal degeneration. These programs have potential applications not only in ALS, but also in Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD), Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), and Huntington’s Disease (HD).
The company operates through a highly collaborative R&D model, partnering with leading academic institutions in the TDP-43 field, specialized research organizations, and industry experts to accelerate the discovery and development of innovative therapies. By combining strong science with a flexible and efficient business approach, we work to move our programs fast from early discovery into preclinical and clinical development.
Alcatraz Therapeutics was founded by Golgi Neurosciences and is led by experienced biotechnology entrepreneurs and drug discovery experts who share a deep commitment to addressing the unmet needs of patients suffering from neurodegenerative diseases. At the heart of our strategy is a lasting dedication to the ALS community, a commitment to developing therapies that can meaningfully improve outcomes for patients and families affected by this devastating disease.
Alcatraz Therapeutics was recognized for its innovative approach to neurodegenerative diseases, receiving the “New Company with Most Transformative Potential” award at Bio-Neurosciences in Amsterdam. The award highlights the company’s promising science and growing impact in the field.
At Alcatraz Therapeutics, we believe innovative science, strong partnerships, and dedication can help create better treatments for ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases.
The team
Stefan Lohmer, CEO
Stefan holds a degree in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry from the University of Cologne (Albertus Magnus University) and earned his Ph.D. at the Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research in Cologne.
He brings more than three decades of international experience in life sciences, drug discovery, and biotechnology. Stefan joined Bayer in 1992, where he held positions of increasing responsibility, including Director of Bayer’s Milan Research Center and Head of Global Genomics. In 2001, he co-founded Axxam, a drug discovery CRO, and served as its Chief Executive Officer from 2001 until 2024, leading the company’s growth into a globally recognized partner for pharmaceutical and biotechnology innovation.
Throughout his career, Stefan has been deeply involved in advancing innovative therapeutic approaches for diseases with high unmet medical needs, including neurodegenerative disorders such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). His long-standing commitment to translating cutting-edge science into therapeutic opportunities has been instrumental in fostering collaborations between academia, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical companies to accelerate the development of novel treatments.
Stefan is the inventor or co-inventor of more than 20 patents and has authored or co-authored over 20 scientific publications, reflecting his extensive contributions to biomedical research and innovation. His entrepreneurial track record, scientific leadership, and sustained dedication to neurodegenerative disease research provide a strong foundation for Alcatraz Therapeutics’ mission to develop transformative therapies for ALS and other neurodegenerative conditions.
Programs
