Here are the latest stories being discussed in biopharma today:

1. Biomedical giant Roche remains upbeat about potential growth in China’s pharma and diagnostics markets, despite potential implications from the Biosecure Act. The proposed US bill, designed to limit dealings with Chinese biotechnology companies deemed ‘concerning,’ has not caused concern for Roche due to its diversified supply chain.

2. Freenome, the cancer testing company, has announced it will lay off more than 100 staff members. Despite having raised $254 million in financing earlier this year, the company, specializing in early cancer detection, believes the cuts will help it focus on their strategic priorities.

3. Evotec, a German company specialising in drug production, has announced a ‘reset’ of its business plans. The company’s relocation of their focus onto their profitable growth comes following lower than expected profits. Former Mediq CEO Christian Wojczewski will become Evotec’s new CEO beginning in July.

4. Thermo Fisher is set to benefit from the potential enforcement of the Biosecure Act. CEO Marc Casper has assured customers that, due to the majority of Thermo Fisher’s network being based in the US and Europe, they can ensure reliable supply chains.

5. Samsung Biologics’ $2 billion investment into Plant 4 is paying dividends. The contract drug manufacturer (CDMO) saw a 31% increase in Q1 earnings compared to the previous year, mostly accredited to Plant 4 and its biosimilar business.

6. Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders is investigating Novo Nordisk’s “outrageously high” list prices for weight loss and diabetes blockbusters, Wegovy and Ozempic. Mr. Sanders argues that these high prices are unaffordable for many Americans and put a huge strain on US healthcare services.

7. Biogen has reported eight key takeaways from their Q1 update. This includes the challenging launch of Leqembi, a $103M voucher, and a focus on striking new licensing deals.