Kevin D. Rynearson, PhD

Dr. Rynearson brings deep expertise in gamma-secretase modulator (GSM) biology and rational drug design and has identified and advanced several highly potent GSM candidates, including Acta’s lead candidate. As Acta’s chief science officer, he directs the scientific strategy, medicinal chemistry, and preclinical development for GSM-779690 in alignment with the original vision shared by Dr. Tanzi and his mentor, Dr. Steven Wagner, to develop disease-modifying treatments for Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Rynearson is also head of research for CogniSHIELD Global.

Dr. Rynearson began his career at the University of California, San Diego, where he joined Dr. Wagner’s laboratory as a postdoctoral researcher. He assumed the role of principal investigator (PI) of the Wagner Laboratory following the untimely passing of his mentor. As PI, Dr. Rynearson continued the seminal GSM research program while exploring complementary therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative disease. He identified and advanced GSM-779690 from initial rational design through GLP-compliant IND-enabling studies, which support its advancement into phase one clinical trials.

Dr. Rynearson earned a B.S. in Chemistry from San Diego State University and an M.S. and Ph.D. in Chemistry from UC San Diego.