Ask Acumen

Paul Shughrue, PhD

Research and Portfolio Lead

How long have you been at Acumen?

I first started working with Acumen in 2003, when Merck formed a collaboration with Acumen to develop anti-Ab Oligomer antibodies. In 2008, I formed a new discovery team at Merck, one that would go on to discover and advance 19.3 (ACU193 or sabirnetug) as a pre-clinical candidate. When Merck halted the 19.3 program in 2011, Acumen gained full ownership of the 19.3 asset and has advanced it into clinical studies. Since that time, I’ve consulted with Acumen and then joined the company last year.

How does your role contribute to the overall vision of the company?

I joined Acumen to lead a new Alzheimer’s drug discovery effort, one looking to discover new molecules with enhanced brain delivery. Over the last 18 months, the team has made tremendous progress towards this goal and hope to nominate a lead candidate early next year. This molecule will help to grow Acumen’s Alzheimer’s Disease pipeline and our efforts to develop new therapies for patients.

Which of Acumen’s four values (People, Integrity, Innovation, and Perseverance) resonates most with your work and role?

Working in the Alzheimer’s field requires tremendous perseverance. Until recently, there had been little progress in the treatment of the disease, despite it being described more than 100 years ago. However, recent progress has provided hope for patients, and it is exciting to be a part of this progress.

From your perspective, what sets our company apart in the field of Alzheimer’s research?

Since the inception of Acumen, the company has always had a unique point of view on Alzheimer’s disease. While most in the field have pursued amyloid plaques as the root cause of disease, Acumen has held firm in their belief that soluble oligomers and their toxic effects on neuronal synapses are most important.

Outside of work, what are some of your hobbies or interests that you enjoy in your free time?

My wife and I love to travel, hike and seek out adventure. We are also both North Carolina alumni and love to attend sporting events and cheer for our Tar Heels (beat Duke).