Gallant Adds Biotech Veterans to Board of Directors

Strategic Insights -

The animal health biotechnology company Gallant has bolstered its Board of Directors with the appointment of Misti Ushio, PhD, and Doug Drew, MBA. Ushio, a seasoned biotech executive with over 25 years of experience, brings expertise in translating breakthrough science into commercially successful companies. She is a Managing Partner at Digitalis Ventures, a venture capital firm focused on innovations in human and animal health. Ushio's background includes leadership roles at TARA Biosystems, Harris & Harris Group, and Merck, where she contributed to the development of vaccines and biologics. Drew, the former Global President of Mars Veterinary Health, brings a deep understanding of veterinary business and innovation integration. He led the organization through major global expansion and steered Mars' $500 million investment in career development and operational excellence.

Key Takeaways:

  • Gallant's Board of Directors now includes Misti Ushio, PhD, and Doug Drew, MBA, who bring decades of experience in biotech innovation and commercialization.
  • Dr. Ushio has over 25 years of experience in biotechnology, with a background in translating breakthrough science into commercially successful companies.
  • Doug Drew previously served as Global President of Mars Veterinary Health, leading the organization through major global expansion and steering a $500 million investment in career development and operational excellence.
  • The additions come at a pivotal time for Gallant, following its $18 million Series B financing and a key FDA milestone.
  • Gallant's therapy is a ready-to-use stem cell therapy for refractory Feline Chronic Gingivostomatitis (FCGS), which has received a positive outcome from the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine.
  • A final decision on the therapy's approval is expected as early as Q1 2026.
  • The therapy will be available on demand, administered through a simple IV injection, and fits seamlessly into daily veterinary practice.

Statistics:

  • 25 years: amount of experience Dr. Misti Ushio has in biotechnology.
  • $18 million: the amount of Series B financing Gallant has received.
  • $500 million: the amount of Mars' investment in career development and operational excellence.
  • Over 3,000: the number of veterinary hospitals in the Mars Veterinary Health network.
  • 20+: the number of countries where Mars Veterinary Health has a presence.

Sources:

  • Digitalis Ventures
  • TARA Biosystems
  • Harris & Harris Group
  • Merck
  • Mars Veterinary Health
  • Gallant
  • NewsRx LLC
  • VerticalNews