Here are the latest stories being discussed in biopharma today:
Top Pharma Players Invest Record $153B in R&D; M&A a Prime Focus
Pharma companies are splashing out a huge $153 billion into research and development. Mergers and acquisitions feature heavily in R&D spending, particularly in the last quarter, as the industry’s biggest spenders are on the hunt for blockbuster deals, or have to fill pipeline gaps and deal with looming patent expirations.
Roche Looks Ahead in Alzheimer’s
Despite previous setbacks in Alzheimer’s research, Roche believes its latest early data from a Phase Ib/IIa study could prove fruitful. Preliminary results for high-dose trontinemab—an amyloid-targeting antibody—are looking hopeful, potentially offering Roche a path towards Alzheimer’s treatment development.
Merck Collaborates with Pearl Bio for New Cancer Biologics
Merck has joined forces with Pearl Bio, aiming to develop new cancer biologics. With Pearl Bio still in its early stages, this collaboration carries the potential to be worth up to $1 billion if it leads to approved drugs.
Bristol Myers Ends Another CytomX Program
Bristol Myers Squibb has put another partnership with CytomX on ice. The move comes amidst a ten-year research collaboration, with CytomX noting that they are still developing multiple preclinical programs, despite BMS’s decision.
Regulus and Skye Bio Raise Funds; New Cancer Company Plans to Go Public
Regulus Therapeutics has secured $100 million following promising Phase I trial data. Fundraising success has also been seen by Skye Bioscience. Meanwhile, Lirum Therapeutics has filed for a $25 million IPO, with Phase I testing for its lead program to be commenced in Ewing sarcoma and other cancers.
No Further Nuplazid Studies in Schizophrenia for Acadia
After its Phase III trial failure in schizophrenia, Acadia Pharmaceuticals has stated that, while data analysis will continue, it will not be conducting any further clinical trials with Nuplazid (pimavanserin). The failure was attributed to better-than-expected placebo performance.
