PepGen Appoints Dr. Steve Han to Enhance Clinical Development Leadership

PepGen Strengthens Clinical Development Leadership with New Appointment

PepGen Inc., a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on innovative oligonucleotide therapies for severe neuromuscular and neurological diseases, has announced the appointment of Dr. Steve Han as Senior Vice President of Clinical Development. This strategic move is part of PepGen's ongoing commitment to enhance its leadership team as it works towards developing advanced treatments that address critical health issues. Dr. Han brings extensive experience in clinical development, and his expertise is expected to propel PepGen's clinical initiatives and streamline the advancement of its therapeutic pipeline.

To incentivize Dr. Han's leadership role, PepGen has awarded him a significant inducement grant comprising non-qualified stock options. On November 20, 2024, he will have the option to purchase 95,000 shares of the company’s common stock at an exercise price of $4.40 per share, which corresponds to the stock's closing price on that date. The options come with a four-year vesting schedule, where 25% of the shares will vest on the one-year anniversary of his employment, followed by monthly vesting of the remaining shares, contingent upon his continued service at the company. This grant aims to align Dr. Han's interests with the long-term goals of PepGen, fostering a culture of commitment and innovation.

PepGen's Enhanced Delivery Oligonucleotide (EDO) platform is a cornerstone of the company's mission to revolutionize the treatment of serious diseases. Over a decade of research has led to the development of this innovative platform, which utilizes cell-penetrating peptides to improve the delivery and efficacy of oligonucleotide therapeutics. This technology aims to address the underlying causes of severe neuromuscular and neurological disorders, thereby positioning PepGen at the forefront of biotechnology advancements in these critical areas. As Dr. Han steps into his new role, his contributions will likely be pivotal in driving the clinical success of PepGen’s therapeutic candidates.

In addition to the leadership appointment, PepGen's commitment to compliance and governance is underscored by the approval of Dr. Han's inducement grant by the independent Compensation Committee. This proactive approach ensures that PepGen aligns with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(c)(4), reflecting its dedication to ethical corporate practices.

As PepGen continues to build its robust pipeline of therapies, industry observers will be watching closely to see how Dr. Han's leadership influences the company's clinical trajectory and its potential impact on the treatment landscape for severe neuromuscular and neurological diseases. For more information, PepGen maintains an online presence at www.pepgen.com, as well as on social media platforms like LinkedIn and X.