Biopharma Buzz: The Only Podcast for Pharma and Biotech Updates

Good morning from Pharma and Biotech daily: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in Pharma e Biotech world. 3M has named William Brown as its new CEO, replacing Michael Roman who has led the company since 2018. Abbott has recalled its HeartMate LVAD communication system due to reported injuries linked to the device malfunctioning. 3M's board has approved a health spinoff, with investors set to receive shares of Solventum. An FDA panel has backed Lumicell's agent for breast cancer imaging tool, despite some risks. A report by AdvaMed has found racial disparities in care, particularly in cardiovascular procedures, and proposes solutions to address these issues. The medtech industry is seeing trends in digital health and AI applications, which are becoming more prominent in the medical device space. Cigna is capping cost increases for pricey GLP-1 weight loss drugs, showing how major players are adapting to meet high demand for these medications.Pfizer's antibody-drug conjugate, ADCetris, showed improved overall survival in patients with relapsed or refractory diffuse large b-cell lymphoma when used with rituximab or lenalidomide. The unique trial design of the study is expected to be the focus of an upcoming advisory committee meeting. Additionally, Roche presented promising mid-stage data for an investigational therapy for Alzheimer's disease, showing rapid and robust amyloid plaque reduction. Acadia Pharmaceuticals is terminating development of its antipsychotic drug after it failed to demonstrate a statistically significant improvement over placebo in a late-stage study. Merck is making a potential $1 billion bet on Pearl Bio's genomically recoded organisms. FDA updates guidelines for Alzheimer's drug development, while biopharma companies like BMS and Innovent Bio announce layoffs and site closures.Roche is focusing on its next Alzheimer's drug after setbacks, while Acadia faces a setback in a schizophrenia trial. Boehringer and Sosei Heptares have teamed up in a deal for a schizophrenia drug. Biotech stock fundings are on track for the best quarter in 3 years. ALS doctors are preparing for tough conversations with patients after a surprise trial failure, and Acadia's drug failure sets back the company's expansion plans. Other news includes the use of social determinants of health data to identify patient populations for weight loss drugs, and a deal between Boehringer and Sosei Heptares to develop medicines for neurological diseases. Publicly traded biotech companies have raised nearly $10 billion in follow-on stock offerings in January and February, driving a sector recovery according to Jefferies.The text discusses the concept of precision medicine and the All of Us research program, which aims to build a diverse health database. The program has revealed risk factors for Alzheimer's disease. The delay in the approval of Eli Lilly's drug for Alzheimer's, Donanemab, is seen as a potential opportunity to improve drug development and pave the way for a more personalized approach to treatment. Additionally, a liquid biopsy for colorectal cancer screening from Guardant Health could make precision medicine in cancer more feasible.In an upcoming webinar, marketers can learn how to execute bigger ideas in a simpler and more cost-effective way using creative automation. Many businesses struggle to balance costs, speed, and creative quality in today's complex marketing landscape. By automating creatives, marketers can accelerate digital ad production, distribution, and impact. Automation enables marketers to increase collaboration between teams, accelerate ad production, and execute bigger ideas more efficiently.Participants can register for the webinar to discover how automation can help streamline marketing efforts and drive ROI.

Good morning from Pharma and Biotech daily: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in Pharma and Biotech world.BioNTech, known for its partnership with Pfizer in developing the first COVID-19 vaccine in the US market, is expecting a return to revenue growth in 2025 after a sales slump of its COVID vaccine affected its bottom line. The company plans to raise prices on the COVID vaccine to maintain revenue while investing in its oncology pipeline for future gains. Meanwhile, Pfizer and Moderna, the other two COVID vaccine giants, are taking different approaches to post-pandemic growth.NeurVati Neurosciences, a blackstone life sciences-backed company, is focusing on later-stage assets to derisk development in neuroscience R&D. Despite recent setbacks in Alzheimer's and ALS drugs, pharma companies are urged to prioritize understanding the patient journey. Pharma companies are also exploring new ways to deliver gene therapies efficiently. Overall, the industry is adapting to evolving trends and challenges to drive innovation and growth in the life sciences field.

Good morning from Pharma and Biotech daily: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in Pharma e Biotech world. The FDA has delayed its decision on Eli Lilly's Alzheimer's drug, Donanemab, and will convene a committee to discuss the application. President Biden addressed drug prices in the State of the Union, calling for lower prescription drug prices. Additionally, Beigene's Brukinsa was approved for follicular lymphoma, and Amylyx's ALS drug faced uncertainty after a Phase III trial failure. Other news included BMS gaining FDA approval for Opdivo in first-line bladder cancer and Merck KGaA discontinuing a BTK inhibitor after a Phase III trial failure. The biopharma industry is experiencing layoffs, with companies like Sumitomo and Evonik cutting staff.

Good morning from Pharma and Biotech daily: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in Pharma and Biotech world.President Joe Biden has proposed expanding the Inflation Reduction Act to include an increase in the number of prescription drugs subject to price negotiations from 20 to 50 annually. This proposal comes ahead of his State of the Union address. Novo Nordisk has reported positive Phase I data for their next-generation obesity candidate, showing a 13.1% reduction in body weight with a favorable safety profile. GSK has also advanced Blenrep's potential comeback with a second Phase III win in second-line multiple myeloma. Additionally, cancer-focused Boundless Bio has filed for an IPO to fund the development of novel cancer therapies targeting extrachromosomal DNA. ITF is preparing for an FDA decision on expanding the DMD market, AstraZeneca is investing in the UK for vaccine manufacturing and R&D, and Gilead and Merus have signed a potential $1.5 billion deal for T-cell engagers. This update also includes job listings in the biopharma industry.

Good morning from Pharma and Biotech daily: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in Pharma e Biotech world.Several developments in the biopharma industry were reported on March 6. Gilead made a bet on 'trispecifics' in a new cancer drug deal, Alumis secured $259 million for its work on a drug targeting Tyk2, Regenxbio's data showed promise in Duchenne gene therapy, Alnylam and Roche's blood pressure drug performed well in a mid-stage trial, and Sionna raised $182 million to challenge Vertex in cystic fibrosis treatment. The sector saw a surge in biotech IPOs at the beginning of 2024, prompting discussions on whether this trend will continue. The biosimilars market in the US has been growing steadily since its slow start in 2015. Additionally, Brazil declared a state of emergency due to dengue cases, AstraZeneca invested in the UK for pandemic preparedness, and companies rushed to preserve skeletal muscle after the success of obesity drugs.Dexcom has received FDA approval for the first over-the-counter continuous glucose monitor for people with type 2 diabetes. Vicarious continues to focus on launching its soft tissue robot despite financial struggles. Smiths Medical has recalled nearly 86,000 syringe pumps due to a software issue. Haemonetics is set to acquire Attune Medical for $160 million. Medtronic estimates up to 40 job losses in Ireland as part of restructuring efforts. The EU Medical Device Regulation is causing challenges for small and medium-sized medtech companies. Other news includes Philips being sued for milestone payments, a dentistry AI developer receiving a $53 million investment, and CMS rolling out provider flexibilities amid cyberattack fallout.Alumis has raised $259 million in a Series C funding round, making it the largest haul in 2024 for a private biotech company. The California-based biotech plans to use the funding to move its tyk2 inhibitor into phase III for plaque psoriasis, potentially challenging competitors Bristol Myers Squibb and Takeda in the autoimmune market. Other key focuses for investors in 2024 include psychedelics and solid tumors. Sandoz has received FDA approvals for the first two biosimilars for Amgen's denosumab, while Sionna Therapeutics has closed a $182 million Series C round to potentially challenge Vertex Pharmaceuticals in the cystic fibrosis market. Overall, experts anticipate increased interest in the autoimmune and obesity spaces this year, following a trend of heightened investment in oncology and neuroscience in 2023.In 2024, investors are expected to focus on psychedelics, solid tumors, autoimmune, and obesity drugs in the biopharma industry. Pfizer's decision to prioritize biologics over small molecules was influenced by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Researchers suggest that the IRA could potentially discourage drug developers from pursuing subsequent indications for existing drugs, leading to a decrease in new drug approvals. Biopharma mergers and acquisitions are on the rise, with Biospace launching an M&A tracker to keep track of industry transactions. The 10th Annual American Biomanufacturing Summit is set to bring together industry leaders to discuss current trends and best practices. In other news, AstraZeneca lost a court case related to the IRA, the ADC market in oncology is expected to reach $30 billion by 2028, and various biopharma companies have secured substantial funding for drug development. Pfizer is focusing on four main cancer types and aims to launch eight blockbuster drugs by 2030.

Good morning from Pharma and Biotech daily: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in Pharma e Biotech world.The biotech industry saw a surge in IPOs at the beginning of 2024, with industry insiders discussing the potential for continued growth. Bayer has postponed its plans to split up its divisions, causing a drop in company shares. Apogee, a biotech company, revealed promising early results for a potential long-lasting eczema drug. Nocion secured $62 million for its chronic cough drug, aiming to compete with a drug acquired by GSK. CVS and Walgreens will start selling the abortion pill in some states ahead of a Supreme Court case. The biosimilars market in the US has seen more products entering the market after a slow start. Additionally, topics such as gene therapy, FDA approvals, drug pricing, and clinical trials are covered in-depth by Biopharma Dive.Transitioning to the next news segment, Novo Nordisk's Ozempic has shown significant benefits in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease, leading to potential cardiometabolic expansion. Biopharma venture capital funding dropped by 20% in Q4 2023, with companies inking 204 deals totaling $6.3 billion. Other developments include Hugel challenging Botox with FDA approval for a neurotoxin injection for frown lines, Eyenovia and Formosa gaining FDA approval for an anti-inflammatory eye drop, and Vivoryon's stock plummeting after an Alzheimer's candidate failed a mid-stage trial. Pfizer has decided to focus on biologics over small molecules, and a pilot study showed better econsents lead to better human experiences. Bio 2024 is set to be the world's largest biotech event, offering opportunities for collaboration and innovation.Moving on to the next news piece, Dr. Marcus Conant, a doctor who treated some of the first patients with HIV in San Francisco in the 1980s, is now working towards finding a cure for the virus. Despite the lack of action and lessons learned from previous epidemics like AIDS, researchers are getting closer to potentially eradicating HIV. The medical and political landscapes have changed, but the fight against HIV continues. Conant's story sheds light on the progress made in the research for a cure, highlighting the urgency of finding more effective treatments as time passes. The biotech sector has seen an increase in IPOs in 2024, sparking optimism in the industry.Lastly, Abingworth has invested in the development of Trodelvy in a deal with Gilead, while Ginkgo acquired a gene editing startup founded by Feng Zhang. FogPharma received $145 million to support cancer drug research, and Nocion secured $62 million for a chronic cough drug. Cure Ventures backed a cell therapy startup targeting Parkinson's, and former Turning Point executives launched a new startup targeting cancer and autoimmune diseases. The biotech IPO market is heating up in 2024, with emerging trends being closely watched. These developments highlight the dynamic and competitive nature of the biopharma industry, with companies racing to bring innovative treatments to market.

Good morning from Pharma and Biotech daily: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in Pharma e Biotech world.UnitedHealth is offering financial assistance to providers affected by a cyberattack on Change Healthcare, but providers say it is not enough to cover the financial strain. CVS and Walgreens will begin selling the abortion pill, mifepristone. Hospital compliance with price transparency requirements is declining due to lenient enforcement. The cyberattack on Change Healthcare is causing widespread effects on providers, impacting billing, eligibility checks, prior authorization requests, and prescription fulfillment.In other news, a report shows that 2 out of 3 healthcare firms find their digital transformation efforts ineffective, and a watchdog group highlights the importance of adopting a platform-based strategy in healthcare. This newsletter provides daily news and insights for healthcare leaders and is sponsored by Paylocity, offering HR and payroll software solutions. Healthcare Dive is a publication operated by Industry Dive, providing in-depth journalism and insight into the most impactful news and trends shaping healthcare.Pfizer's decision to focus on biologics over small molecules in its oncology strategy was influenced by the Inflation Reduction Act. This act's drug price negotiation provisions led Pfizer to build up its biologics portfolio and reduce small molecules. Meanwhile, new ALS treatments are facing regulatory uncertainty despite the approval of two novel therapies for the disease.The ALS treatment landscape is filled with over 100 candidates, and experts suggest that regulatory standards and expectations are still evolving. Bayer paid $310 million to BridgeBio for an ATTR-CM treatment in Europe as BridgeBio's Acoramidis nears an FDA approval decision. Additionally, Akero Therapeutics' Efruxifermin showed positive mid-stage fibrosis data, improving fibrosis without worsening metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis.The text also mentions other news in the biopharma industry, such as J&J's full FDA approval for Rybrevant and a pilot study showing that better eConsents create better human experiences. Finally, it promotes registration for Bio 2024, the world's largest biotech event, where leaders in business, science, and policy can come together for innovation and partnering opportunities.

Good morning from Pharma and Biotech daily: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in Pharma e Biotech world.A cyberattack has impacted healthcare providers' operations, Molina has lost a Medicaid contract in Virginia, and Walgreens' Villagemd is exiting Illinois. On a positive note, Cleveland Clinic reported a significant net income. A recent survey shows that three-quarters of health professionals expect widespread adoption of artificial intelligence in healthcare. Healthcare Dive offers valuable information on health IT, policy & regulation, insurance, digital health, payer-provider partnerships, and value-based care. Stay informed on healthcare trends, social determinants of health, and upcoming industry events.

Good morning from Pharma and Biotech daily: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in Pharma and Biotech world.Abingworth has invested in Trodelvy development in a deal with Gilead, where one of the investment firm's startups will work with Gilead to expand the cancer drug's label. Cure Ventures has backed a cell therapy startup called Kenai Therapeutics targeting Parkinson's, with $82 million raised and chaired by Jeff Jonas, a former CEO of Sage Therapeutics. Former Turning Point executives have started a new startup with Blossomhill, focusing on cancer and autoimmune diseases and raising over $170 million in funding. Lindus Health, co-founded by a Moderna co-founder Robert Langer, is aiming to address challenges in contract drug research. Ginkgo has acquired Proof Diagnostics, founded by Feng Zhang, to gain gene editing tools for making genetic medicines.In other news, there is an inside look at biotech financing tools, a theory on protein chirality, settlement agreements in price-fixing cases, and upcoming webinars on omnichannel HCP engagement and tech talent recruitment in the life sciences industry. Biopharma Dive provides insights and news on biotech and pharma trends, covering topics such as clinical trials, FDA approvals, gene therapy, drug pricing, and research partnerships.

Good morning from Pharma and Biotech Daily: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in Pharma and Biotech world.UnitedHealth is facing an antitrust probe by the DOJ regarding potential anticompetitive effects. Despite challenges like high labor costs, UHS, a hospital operator, saw revenue growth in 2023. Veradigm is set to delist after missing a Nasdaq deadline. Nurse leaders report burnout and turnover in their roles. A ransomware attack at an urgent care provider may have exposed personal information of over 516,000 people. Healthcare Dive provides insights for healthcare leaders, including articles on AI implementation, social determinants of health, and healthcare data breaches, covering a wide range of topics such as hospitals, payers, health IT, government policies, finances, medical groups, and telehealth. Healthcare Dive is operated by Industry Dive, providing journalism and insights for decision-makers in competitive industries.Viatris pays $350 million to acquire two drugs from Idorsia for heart attacks and lupus in phase 3 testing. Ginkgo acquires gene editing tools through the buyout of Proof Diagnostics, founded by Feng Zhang. Incannex reports that psilocybin therapy reduced anxiety in a small study. Women's health company Obseva plans to wind down operations and lay off staff. Viking's obesity drug showed promising results in a phase 2 trial, potentially rivaling drugs from Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk. The rise of obesity drug treatments is reshaping the pharma industry with significant advancements and changes, as companies make strategic moves to enhance their portfolios and address unmet medical needs.Gatorade has unveiled Gatorade Water, their first unflavored water product, with a digital-heavy marketing campaign focused on wellness. Estee Lauder's marketing mix modeling use was discussed at the eTail Palm Springs conference, showcasing their balance between brand and performance marketing. Dick's Sporting Goods has enlisted Kathryn Hahn and Will Arnett for an ad campaign highlighting e-commerce convenience. Food and beverage brands are putting a modern spin on retro packaging to appeal to consumers' emotions. Mod Op has acquired RTO+P for more creative firepower in a competitive market. Marketing Dive explores mobile messaging's influence on consumer behavior in 2024, as well as upcoming events and industry news.The recent awarding of Johnson & Johnson's Dr. Paul Janssen Award for Biomedical Research to MIT professor and Moderna co-founder Robert Langer is discussed in the text, recognizing his impactful innovations in drug delivery. Langer's work in nanoparticle drug delivery has led to advancements in biopharma, particularly in the technology behind mRNA vaccines. The text also highlights Langer's role as a scientific advisor to a new CRO aiming to improve clinical trials through technology. Additionally, it addresses the staffing challenges faced by CROs since the pandemic and explores strategies for retaining talent in the research industry, emphasizing the importance of adapting to new technologies and approaches to enhance efficiency in clinical trials and improve patient care.