29th January 2025
Here is a roundup of our top biotech and pharma industry insights for January 2025.
This article considers the promising future of mRNA cancer vaccines, highlighting their commercial viability and potential to transform cancer treatment. mRNA technology is now being adapted for cancer vaccines after gaining prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic. They work by teaching the immune system to recognise and attack cancer cells, and researchers believe this could significantly improve survival rates, reduce the risk of relapse, and offer a more targeted treatment option. As clinical trials progress and more data becomes available, the mRNA vaccine market is expected to grow, with sizeable investments from pharmaceutical companies.
Read more here.
The U.S. FDA has approved a new triple-combination CFTR modulator therapy consisting of vanzacaftor, tezacaftor, and deutivacaftor. Vertex Pharmaceuticals developed Alyftrek for cystic fibrosis (CF) patients with at least one copy of a mutation responsive to the treatment. Alyftrek provides improved efficacy and more convenient once-daily dosing compared with its predecessor Trikafta’s twice-daily regimen. The therapy targets the underlying cause of CF by improving CFTR protein function, and clinical trials have shown that it reduces sweat chloride levels more effectively while maintaining similar safety profiles. The EU, U.K., Canada, and Australia are also reviewing the therapy.
Read more here.
Menarini Group has licensed a second asset from Insilico Medicine, which was developed using their generative AI platform. This new preclinical small molecule targets unmet needs in oncology, specifically a broad range of solid tumours. The agreement grants Menarini’s subsidiary, Stemline Therapeutics, global rights to develop and commercialise the asset. It was created with Insilico’s Chemistry42 AI engine and has shown strong anti-tumour activity in preclinical studies.
Read more here.
An NHS trial, funded by the UK’s Advanced Research and Invention Agency (Aria), will test a brain-computer interface (BCI) that uses ultrasound to modify brain activity and potentially improve mood. Doctors hope it could revolutionise treatment for depression, epilepsy, and addiction by rebalancing brain activity. Unlike invasive implants, the device uses ultrasound to map and modify brain activity across multiple regions, offering a less invasive alternative for conditions affecting broader brain circuits. The device aims to alter mood and motivation without impact decision-making.
Read more here.
Inflammatix has received FDA approval for its in vitro diagnostic system, designed to rapidly assess the body’s immune response to infectious diseases at the point of care. The TriVerity test helps emergency department clinicians differentiate between bacterial and viral infections and evaluate the risk of sepsis. This host-response diagnostic uses a cartridge-based blood test and the Myrna instrument platform to identify around 30 genetic biomarkers activated by the immune system during infection, helping to guide patient triage and the appropriate use of antibiotics. Inflammatix raised $57 million to expand its commercial team in September while awaiting FDA clearance.
Read more here.
