Each week we highlight five things affecting the life sciences industry. Here’s the latest.
How the election might affect the life sciences industry
- Fierce Pharma provides some initial thoughts regarding the impact of Donald Trump’s election.
- Issues considered include changes to the Inflation Reduction Act, regulation of pharmacy benefit managers, mergers and acquisitions regulation, and potential appointments to key roles in the administration.
Several startups receive funding to pursue RNAi technology
- RNA interference (RNAi), a gene-silencing technology, has recently seen significant advancements. Six new drugs for rare diseases and high cholesterol have been approved since 2018 using RNAi. But its applications appear to be limited to liver-related indications, according to BioPharma Dive.
- Several startups are receiving significant investments to develop next-generation RNAi therapies targeting organs like the brain, lungs and kidneys, potentially broadening RNAi’s therapeutic impact.
New treatment approved for age-related eye disease
- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved, the first light-based therapy for dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which uses photobiomodulation to stimulate retinal cells and improve vision by about one line on an eye chart, according to Fierce MedTech.
- Dry AMD is an ocular disease that is the leading cause of blindness in adults over 65. The condition currently impacts millions across the world and prevalence is expected to rise significantly over the next five to 10 years.
Life sciences companies attempting to cut ties with Chinese suppliers
- Rising U.S.-China geopolitical tensions and the proposed Biosecure Act, which restricts partnerships with certain Chinese firms, are prompting U.S. biotech and pharmaceutical companies to seek alternative suppliers outside China.
- This could affect raw materials and manufacturing, potentially increasing drug costs and development timelines, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Path to successful biotech exit
- BioSpace explores the path to a successful exit through conversations with biotech executives, bankers, private equity leaders and others in the industry. Investors in biotech exits now prioritize quality clinical data, proven leadership teams and market potential over scientific novelty alone.
- Experts advise flexibility and creativity in development of financing strategies. Additionally, building strong investor syndicates and focusing on short-term milestones can strengthen companies’ appeal for successful exits in a competitive market landscape.
For more insights in life sciences, check out RSM’s industry outlook.
