Yunhee Lee

CTO at AltRegen

Speaker

Dr. Yunhee Lee is a biochemist and retinal researcher specializing in age-related macular degeneration (AMD), with nearly 20 years of experience investigating Bruch's membrane biology and developing therapeutic interventions. She earned her Ph.D. in Medicine (Ophthalmology) from King's College London, where her thesis focused on the characterization and modulation of the gelatinase system of human Bruch's membrane, a key interface between the retina and the choroid. This foundational work established her long-standing interest in extracellular matrix remodeling in retinal ageing and degeneration.

Following her doctoral training, Dr. Lee collaborated with leading academic centers including University College London, St. Thomas' Hospital, and Moorfields Eye Hospital. Through these partnerships, she deepened her expertise in retinal biochemistry and AMD pathophysiology. Her research demonstrated that Bruch's membrane progressively thickens and undergoes biochemical alterations with age, impairing the bidirectional transport of nutrients and waste. These changes critically affect the health of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and the survival of photoreceptors.

Recognizing the clinical potential of targeting Bruch's membrane, Dr. Lee developed ATR211, a patented oral formulation of triterpenoid saponins. This therapy is designed to disperse lipid-protein aggregates, enhance matrix metalloproteinase activity, and restore the transport function of the aged membrane. Ex vivo studies showed improved hydraulic conductivity and nutrient diffusion. Pilot clinical results also demonstrated meaningful recovery in rod-mediated dark adaptation among patients with AMD.
Building on these findings, Dr. Lee initiated the SAMADI trial, a UK MHRA-authorized multicenter Phase 2b study evaluating the safety and efficacy of ATR211. She led the project from initial concept through regulatory approval, establishing multi-institutional collaborations and securing clinical funding. She leads the strategic direction and translational development of the trial.

Dr. Lee is the founder and Chief Technology Officer of AltRegen, a Korea-based biotech company dedicated to retinal drug discovery. Under her leadership, AltRegen has secured investment from four major institutional investors in Korea, including one of the nation's top three. These investments reflect strong confidence in the company's scientific foundation, regulatory progress, and commercial potential. She has also secured competitive national research grants through Korea's public R&D programs to support both preclinical and clinical development.

Her work has resulted in multiple international patents related to Bruch's membrane-targeted therapies. She has authored over 20 peer-reviewed publications and academic books in the fields of matrix biology, retinal aging, and therapeutic innovation. In addition to her research, she contributes actively to the retinal science community through academic collaborations and peer review.

Dr. Lee's mission is to develop treatments that address the underlying mechanisms of AMD, aiming not only to slow disease progression but also to restore retinal function. She remains committed to patients suffering from vision loss, many of whom face the devastating impact of irreversible blindness. The results of the Phase 2b SAMADI trial are expected soon. If successful, ATR211 could be rapidly advanced as a therapeutic option and may become the first truly disease-modifying treatment for AMD. Dr. Lee is determined to deliver real hope to patients who have long been without effective options.