LONDON, Feb. 07, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Keyron, the medical technology group focused on reversing type 2 diabetes, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and obesity through an innovative medical device platform, announced the appointment today from known Carl D Francis as general manager.

“The continued rise in obesity, diabetes and all forms of fatty liver disease is one of the greatest public health challenges facing the world today. Literally billions of people are affected and the numbers continue to rise rapidly,” said Francis. “Keyron’s technology is a complete game changer. An innovative, non-surgical, endoscopically performed, fully reversible treatment as an alternative to drastic bariatric surgery is as exciting as it gets. I’m really proud and honored to be a part of Keyron. “

The American Diabetes Association states that today 37 million Americans have diabetes, with 96 million having pre-diabetes. The link between obesity and diabetes is well established, and according to the World Obesity Federation’s recently published 2022 Atlas, 67% of women and 51% of men in America will be living with obesity (BMI ≥ 30) by 2030.

Keyron’s patented technology is designed as a fully endoscopic, outpatient procedure that provides the same or greater metabolic benefits of gastric bypass surgery, including reversal of type 2 diabetes and obesity, as well as NASH and hepatic fibrosis.

Following successful rodent studies in 2019 and pig studies in 2022, Keyron’s first human studies are scheduled to begin in early 2024. Keyron is targeting FDA approval by 2028, with a US launch planned as the first target market. The company now plans to raise a $15 million Series A funding round.

dr Giorgio Castagneto Gissey, Chairman of Keyron, said: “We are delighted that Carl will lead Keyron at this critical stage in our development. Carl brings energy, focus and leadership experience to ensure we reach our full potential. Keyron has it…