EVCNA Expert Interview Series I: Prof. Chulhee Choi
Extracellular Vesicles and Circulating Nucleic Acids (EVCNA) recently had the pleasure of interviewing Prof. Dr. Chulhee Choi from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), South Korea. Prof. Choi is a distinguished scientist and Chair of the Optical Bioimaging Center at KAIST, widely recognized for his pioneering research in neurovascular function, cancer biology, and bio-photonic modulation of cellular processes.
In this exclusive interview, Prof. Choi shared his perspectives on the emerging role of exosomes as novel therapeutics, exploring their potential from biological mechanisms to technological innovations and clinical applications. He also discussed the current focus areas of his laboratory, the key challenges in advancing translational exosome research, and the broader significance of exosome-based therapeutics in the future of precision medicine. Finally, Prof. Choi offered thoughtful advice to researchers and industry innovators aiming to enter this dynamic and rapidly evolving field.
Watch the following video for expert insights from Prof. Chulhee Choi:
Interview Questions:
Q1: Could you share the role of exosomes as novel therapeutics from the perspectives of biology, technology, and clinical applications?
Q2: Could you tell us about your current research focus?
Q3: Could you elaborate on the challenges and the significance of the three main focus areas of your research?
Q4: If you had to point out one major hurdle in leading research and development in this novel area, what would it be?
Q5: What do you consider to be the significance of this research?
Q6: How do you envision the future development of this field?
Q7: Could you share any advice or message for other researchers and companies who wish to enter this field?
About Dr. Chulhee Choi:
Chulhee Choi, Professor of Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology, South Korea.
Dr. Chulhee Choi is the founder and CEO of ILIAS Biologics, a clinical-stage biotech company leading innovation in exosome-based therapeutics. Prior to founding ILIAS, he was a professor of bio and brain engineering at KAIST, where he led groundbreaking research in molecular imaging and therapeutic delivery systems. He spearheaded the development of EXPLOR®, a proprietary platform that enables the active loading of high-molecular-weight therapeutic proteins into exosomes. Under Dr. Choi's leadership, ILIAS has advanced its lead candidate, ILB-202, through a successful first-in-human Phase 1 clinical trial in 2023, marking a significant milestone in the development of macrophage-targeted anti-inflammatory therapies. He continues to drive the company's scientific and strategic direction, building a diverse pipeline targeting inflammatory, CNS, renal, and hepatic diseases. Dr. Choi, a founding member of the Extracellular Vesicles Industry Association (EVIA) in Korea, currently serves as its chairman, fostering cross-sector collaboration and regulatory dialogue in the growing field of exosome therapeutics. With a vision that blends deep scientific insight and translational strategy, he is committed to redefining targeted drug delivery and unlocking the full therapeutic potential of engineered exosomes.
Editor: Yan Lei
Production Editor: Ting Xu
Respectfully Submitted by the Editorial Office of Extracellular Vesicles and Circulating Nucleic Acids
