Each week we highlight five things affecting the life sciences industry. Here’s the latest.
Bridge-editing: A potential superior alternative to CRISPR for DNA alteration
- A new technique called bridge-editing has been developed, potentially surpassing CRISPR in precision and efficiency for DNA editing by directly targeting and correcting genetic mutations.
- Per New Scientist, bridge-editing minimizes unintended changes, offering a safer and more effective approach for genetic therapies and research.
Doctors support growth in home testing, survey finds
- A recent survey indicates that a majority of doctors now support the expansion of home testing, seeing it as a way to improve patient access and engagement in health care.
- This trend opens new opportunities for biopharma companies to innovate in patient care, potentially leading to more personalized and efficient treatment options, reports Fierce Pharma.
Zealand Pharma jumps 23% on positive weight-loss drug trial results
- Zealand Pharma’s stock surged 23% following promising trial results for their weight-loss drug candidate, which showed significant efficacy in reducing body weight in participants.
- CNBC reports that the trial results boost Zealand Pharma’s position in the competitive weight-loss drug market, signaling potential future growth and investor confidence.
VC firm raises $380 million for early-stage biotechs
- Bio, a venture capital firm, has raised $380 million to invest in early-stage biotech companies, emphasizing innovative drug discovery and development.
- Per Fierce Biotech, this funding highlights ongoing investor confidence in the biotech sector, aiming to support groundbreaking therapeutic advancements amid economic uncertainties.
Supreme Court blocks Purdue Pharma bankruptcy plan
- The Supreme Court ruled 5-4 to block Purdue Pharma’s bankruptcy reorganization plan, stating that the bankruptcy court lacked authority to grant legal immunity to the Sackler family from opioid-related lawsuits. This decision threatens the $6 billion settlement intended for opioid victims, which required the Sacklers’ release from future liabilities.
- In response, the Sackler family, Purdue Pharma, and plaintiffs’ lawyers expressed hopes for a new agreement. If no settlement is reached, lawsuits against the Sacklers may resume, putting pressure on them to negotiate quickly.
For more insights in life sciences, check out RSM’s industry outlook.
There will be no issue of “5 things to know in life sciences,” next week due to the holiday. We’ll resume publication the week of July 8.
