In a major recognition of innovation and leadership in the biotech industry, TIME magazine has included two companies led by Indian-American CEOs, Vertex Pharmaceuticals and CRISPR Therapeutics, on its prestigious TIME100 Most Influential Companies list for 2025.
The annual list celebrates organizations that make a significant global impact through innovation, vision, and results.
Vertex Pharmaceuticals, under the leadership of Dr. Reshma Kewalramani, was named under the “Impact Awards” category, which highlights five standout companies making meaningful contributions in their respective fields.
CRISPR Therapeutics, helmed by Dr. Samarth Kulkarni, was recognized in the “Pioneers” category for its trailblazing advancements in genetic medicine.
Transforming Treatment with Rational Drug Design: Vertex Pharmaceuticals
Vertex Pharmaceuticals stood out for its revolutionary progress in treating complex diseases with high unmet needs.
The company garnered acclaim for Casgevy, the first FDA-approved CRISPR-based therapy for sickle cell disease and beta thalassemia, two life-threatening genetic blood disorders that disproportionately affect marginalized populations.
In addition, Vertex broke new ground with Journavx, the first non-opioid painkiller to be approved in over two decades. This innovation marks a critical step in combating the opioid crisis and addressing chronic pain with safer alternatives.
Dr. Kewalramani, the first female CEO of a major U.S. biotech firm, emphasized the company’s commitment to transformative science:
“Why did we do this? Because we thought pain was an incredibly important disease where there was no innovation and where we thought we could make a big difference. And why did we keep going? Because of the science and our desire to work in areas where we could make this kind of transformative leap.”
With a market capitalization of $114 billion, Vertex is also advancing a cell-based therapy for type 1 diabetes and accelerating kidney disease treatments through its recent $4.9 billion acquisition of Alpine Immune Sciences.
Pioneering the Future of Gene Editing: CRISPR Therapeutics
Founded on the revolutionary CRISPR gene-editing technology, CRISPR Therapeutics continues to push scientific boundaries with its vision of curing diseases at the genetic level.
The company, which co-developed Casgevy alongside Vertex, is now testing CRISPR applications for high cholesterol and lupus, expanding its reach to some of the most prevalent and chronic conditions affecting global health.
Dr. Kulkarni highlighted the company’s deep-rooted mission:
“Since our founding, CRISPR Therapeutics has been driven by a mission to transform medicine through bold science and meaningful innovation. We are honored to be recognized by TIME. This acknowledgement is testament to the extraordinary dedication and collaboration across our teams to pioneer the next frontier of genetic medicine and improve the lives of patients around the world.”
A Proud Moment for Indian-American Leadership in Biotech
The recognition of these two companies not only underscores the growing influence of biotech in reshaping modern medicine but also celebrates the leadership of Indian-American professionals at the forefront of global innovation.
As gene editing, personalized medicine, and rational drug design continue to revolutionize healthcare, the accomplishments of Dr. Reshma Kewalramani and Dr. Samarth Kulkarni serve as powerful reminders of how science, vision, and leadership can converge to create transformative change.
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