Here are the latest stories being discussed in biopharma today:

German Court Rejects CureVac Patent Claim Amid BioNTech Covid-19 Vaccine Dispute

A CureVac patent, central to its ongoing battle with BioNTech over Covid-19 vaccine mRNA technology, has been dismissed by a German court. As a result, CureVac’s stock fell by 25% on Tuesday, but the company has announced plans to appeal this decision.

FDA Gives Nod to Chiesi’s Skin Disease Treatment Following Initial Amryt Rejection

The FDA has now approved Chiesi Global Rare Diseases’ topical gel, Filsuvez, for the treatment of Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) – a rare skin disease – in children as young as six months old. This comes after the initial rejection of the treatment by Amryt Pharma.

Verily CMO, Amy Abernethy, Resigns

Dr. Amy Abernethy, Verily’s chief medical officer, has announced that she will be leaving the company to launch a new healthcare non-profit. She will officially depart during the first quarter of 2024.

FTC Unveils Merger Review Guidelines in Antitrust Framework Overhaul

The FTC has shared its updated guidelines, aimed at evaluating corporate consolidation and its potential violation of antitrust laws. This development is particularly pertinent to the life sciences industry, and may cause changes in how pharmaceutical mergers are viewed.

Merck Earns Priority Review for Pneumococcal Vaccine; Pfizer Watches Closely

Merck’s investigational pneumococcal vaccine, V116, has been given priority review by the FDA. The decision, expected by June 2024, could pose a risk for rival Pfizer’s share in the market.

Eli Lilly Rolls Out ‘Zepbound’, A Weight Loss Drug

Eli Lilly is preparing to launch its new weight management drug, Zepbound. Interest in the drug is gaining momentum, thanks to wide media coverage and the product’s proven treatment benefits. Industry insiders suggest that, due to its already established popularity, Zepbound will likely sell itself, creating minimal need for extensive marketing efforts.