Here are the latest stories being discussed in biopharma today:
European Parliament Approves Overhaul of Pharma Legislation
The European Parliament has unanimously voted in favour of the first pharmaceutical legislation overhaul in roughly two decades. If approved by the European Council, the legislative package will offer shorter regulatory data protection periods and additional incentives for investment.
Genentech to Trim Workforce by 3%
Roche’s Genentech unit has reported it will be laying off 3% of its workforce, impacting several units within the company. Details of the affected positions have not been disclosed, but the layoffs represent an approximate number of 400 roles.
FDA Supports New MRD Endpoint
The FDA appears open to a new endpoint that could expedite the development of treatments for multiple myeloma. The Oncologic Drugs Advisory Committee will meet on Friday to discuss the use of minimal residual disease (MRD) as a possible surrogate endpoint to enable accelerated approval for multiple myeloma treatments.
Alpine Immune Sciences and Janux Exploring Potential Sales
Janux Therapeutics and Alpine Immune Sciences may potentially become the next acquisitions within the biopharma sector, according to reports. Owing to their relatively small market caps of around $2 billion each, these clinical-stage biotechs represent manageable prospects for larger pharma companies.
UCB Campaign Encourages Hidradenitis Suppurativa Patients
UCB’s new campaign seeks to address hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) patients’ concerns about body consciousness and isolation, associated with the skin condition. UCB is currently awaiting the FDA’s decision on an additional indication for Bimzelx to treat moderate-to-severe HS.
Endo Files Suit Against FDA Over Generic Approval
Endo Pharmaceuticals has filed a lawsuit against the FDA over their approval of a generic version of their Adrenalin injections. The lawsuit requests an emergency stay on the FDA’s decision and argues that the approval of a generic adrenaline treatment was unlawful.
