Here are the latest stories being discussed in biopharma today:
1. Nvidia’s Plan to Rule Biotech’s AI Revolution
Nvidia, a leading chipmaker, has seen a growing success in the healthcare sector, dominating AI-assisted drug design. In contrast to other tech giants’ attempts, Nvidia has built a significant revenue stream in health, capitalizing on the increasing importance of AI in biopharma R&D.
2. Regeneron Steps into Venture Investing
Regeneron is launching an entry into venture investing with a $500 million fund, dedicated to supporting biotech startups and cutting-edge technologies. The pharma giant is the exclusive partner for the fund, termed Regeneron Ventures, managed by former Regeneron senior vice presidents Jay Markowitz and Michael Aberman.
3. Ultragenyx Aims for Pivotal Angelman Syndrome Trial
Ultragenyx is preparing for a Phase 3 study of its Angelman Syndrome program, GTX-102. While the company has yet to release data specifics, a pivotal trial is expected to commence later this year, promising potential treatments for this rare neurogenetic disorder.
4. Marinus Pharmaceuticals Continues Phase 3 Trial Amid Efficacy Concerns
Marinus Pharmaceuticals will proceed into its Phase 3 trial for ganaxolone, a seizure medication, even though interim analysis data suggested lack of statistical significance. The IV treatment for prolonged, refractory status epilepticus will now be studied in approximately 100 patients.
5. Mustang Bio Layoffs and MaaT’s Microbiome Therapy Data
Mustang Bio is downsizing, with an 81% workforce reduction set to take place throughout April, as part of a cash preservation strategy. Meanwhile, MaaT Pharma has showcased promising data for its microbiome therapy, with 42% overall survival observed at 18 months in a study of acute graft versus host disease (aGvHD) patients.
6. FDA Places Clinical Hold on Neumora’s Schizophrenia Drug
The FDA has imposed a clinical hold on Neumora Therapeutics’ Phase 1 study of a schizophrenia drug after preclinical data showed convulsions in rabbits. Despite this setback, no convulsions have been reported in 30 patients already included in the trial.
7. Roche’s Christmas Tree Passes Phase 3 Lymphoma Test
Roche’s Columvi has successfully passed a Phase 3 lymphoma test, setting the stage for continued competition with AbbVie and Genmab. Details on the results are yet to be released.
8. Astellas Writes Down Another Segment of Audentes Acquisition
Astellas has announced another write-down relating to its previous Audentes gene therapy acquisition. This comes as part of ongoing adjustments following the initial purchase.
