Kottayam:  Suma Krishnan, a native of Kottayam, Kerala, has gained international recognition after being featured in the prestigious Forbes “50 Over 50” list. The honor celebrates women who have made significant contributions in their fields after the age of 50, highlighting Suma’s remarkable success in the biotechnology industry.

Now based in the United States, Suma Krishnan is the co-founder and president of Krystal Biotech, a company that has revolutionized the treatment of rare genetic disorders. Her pioneering work led to the development of Vyjuvek, the world’s first FDA-approved topical gene therapy, designed for patients suffering from dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB)  a painful and life-altering skin disease that causes severe blistering and wounds.

Krishnan co-founded Krystal Biotech in Pittsburgh when she was 51 years old, driven by a passion to create therapies that address the genetic roots of rare conditions. The approval of Vyjuvek in 2023 was a historic milestone, marking the first time such a therapy reached patients in need. The innovation has since earned her recognition from Forbes for transforming gene therapy from a scientific dream into a practical reality.

Forbes praised Krishnan for her determination and leadership in navigating uncharted territory in gene therapy research and regulatory development. Her inclusion in the list underscores how perseverance, vision, and experience can drive innovation even in the later stages of a professional career.

Back in Kerala, the news of her achievement has sparked pride and inspiration among many, especially young women aspiring to careers in science and technology. Krishnan’s story serves as a reminder that groundbreaking innovation knows no boundaries of age or origin  and that a determined individual from Kottayam can make a lasting mark on global medicine.

As Krystal Biotech continues to expand its research in gene-based treatments, Suma Krishnan’s inclusion in the Forbes “50 Over 50” list stands as a testament to her impact on modern healthcare and her enduring legacy in the field of biotechnology.