Bloomberg Businessweek Acadia CEO on the Fight Against Rare Diseases
Jan 14, 2026
Catherine Owen Adams, CEO of Acadia Pharmaceuticals, leads the charge in developing therapies for rare neurological diseases. She discusses the company's groundbreaking FDA-approved treatments for Parkinson's psychosis and Rett syndrome. Catherine highlights the challenges posed by cuts to U.S. research funding and advocates for policies that prioritize small biotechs. She emphasizes the importance of patient support services and collaboration with advocacy groups to ensure access to innovative therapies for underserved communities.
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High Unmet Need In Neuroscience And Rare Disease
- Neuroscience and rare disease combine huge unmet needs across many conditions like Alzheimer's and Rett syndrome.
- Catherine Owen Adams says this mix makes the area especially ripe for innovation.
Early Signs Of Research Funding Strain
- NIH funding cuts haven't yet disrupted Acadia's pipeline but are felt in early-stage academic work.
- Catherine Owen Adams warns smaller biotechs may face longer-term knock-on effects.
Engage Policymakers Proactively
- CEOs should proactively build lines of communication with policymakers and regulators.
- Catherine Owen Adams recommends engaging via trade groups like BIO to ensure biotech voices are heard.