Dr. Ahmar Iqbal and the Hope for a Cure: A Breakthrough in Food Allergy Care

“Please keep up this good work,” a patient once told Dr. Ahmar Iqbal — a moment that captured the heart of his mission. For him, helping even one person live a better life is the culmination of his life’s work.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Iqbal, senior leader at Genentech and Therapeutic Area Lead for Respiratory and Influenza, to discuss his leadership on the landmark OUtMATCH trial — the pivotal Phase III study that led to the 2024 FDA approval of Xolair, the first and only approved biologic that blocks IgE to treat food allergies.

Dr. Iqbal walks us through each phase of the study, which included both children and adults and focused on real-world clinical reactions — not just IgE test results. He also explains how Xolair is used alongside food avoidance, offering a new layer of protection for patients with food allergies.

With a rich career spanning GSK, Pfizer, and Eli Lilly, and decades of experience in immunology and clinical research, Dr. Iqbal brings depth, humanity, and a clear vision for the future of patient-centered care.