Each week we highlight five things affecting the life sciences industry. Here’s the latest.
Potential COINS Act expansion could disrupt U.S.–China biotech dealmaking
- Policymakers are considering adding biotechnology to the Comprehensive Outbound Investment National Security (COINS) Act, which would allow the U.S. government to restrict or scrutinize outbound investment and licensing deals involving Chinese biotech.
- While a full ban is unlikely initially, expanded rules (e.g., notification requirements) could slow deals and increase costs, especially for structures like joint ventures, according to Fierce Biotech.
Vienna conference highlights innovations in lab automation and early-stage biotech
- The Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening used its 2026 European conference in Vienna to showcase emerging innovation across life sciences tools and research, with more than 1,500 attendees and 137 exhibitors from over 30 countries, reports Medical News.
- The innovation AveNEW program received significant focus, featuring early-stage companies presenting new laboratory technologies and competing for the Ignite Award, emphasizing the role of the startup in driving next-generation discovery platforms with clear go-to-market strategies. Alongside this, the event exhibited a variety of innovations including technologies focused on particle sorting, membrane protein purification and precision liquid handling.
AI adoption in medtech is rapidly accelerating
- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized a record number of artificial intelligence-enabled devices (331 in 2025), with strongest use in imaging but expanding into cardiology and neurology, reports Medtech Dive.
- Regulators and industries are adapting to new AI capabilities. Growth in generative AI and foundation models is increasing complexity, prompting closer tracking of device approvals and how companies deploy the technology.
Heart health company files for IPO to fund late-stage cardiovascular programs
- According to Biopharma Dive, a heart health startup has raised ~$570 million to date and is advancing three mid‑ to late‑stage in‑licensed drugs targeting serious heart conditions.
- This news comes as part of biotech’s initial public offering market reopening, which is favoring de-risked assets.
Major pharmaceutical company announces three acquisitions in one day
- A major pharmaceutical company is acquiring three clinical-stage vaccine biotechs for up to $3.8 billion to expand beyond its obesity franchise and build a stronger presence in infectious diseases.
- According to Bloomberg, the deals add diversified vaccine platforms targeting shingles, bacterial infections and Epstein-Barr virus, giving the company access to new technologies and prevention-focused therapies.
For more insights in life sciences, check out RSM’s industry outlook.
