Pharma and Biotech Weekly: The Latest in Drug Development, M&A, and Regulatory Updates

Good morning from Pharma and Biotech daily: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in Pharma and Biotech world.This week's Commercialization Weekly highlights Bristol Myers' success with a Kras drug trial, Astrazeneca's FDA approval for a rare disease drug acquired from Alexion, FDA approval for Akebia's anemia pill after a previous rejection, and Acorda's bankruptcy filing. The FDA is also set to make decisions on expanding the use of two multiple myeloma cell therapies, a top-selling medicine, and Pfizer's gene therapy work. Risant Health has launched after Kaiser closed the acquisition of Geisinger, with plans to acquire more nonprofits. Surescripts is reportedly exploring a sale, with a private equity buyer being a potential option.Genmab acquired ProfoundBio for $1.8 billion, joining the trend of increased M&A activity in the development of antibody-drug conjugates. Paragon's hub-and-spoke biotech model resulted in another reverse merger with Oruka Therapeutics going public. Diagonal has raised $128 million to develop more efficient 'activator' antibody drugs. A dementia-focused venture capital firm is exploring new brain drugs beyond anti-amyloid therapies. Roivant reported positive immune drug data and announced share buyback plans.Genmab recently acquired the company ProfoundBio for $1.8 billion, expanding its presence in the antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) space with a focus on gynecologic cancers and solid tumors. Meanwhile, Diagonal Therapeutics secured $128 million in funding for their unique approach to developing agonist antibodies for rare diseases. In other news, Vanda Pharmaceuticals received FDA approval for their antipsychotic drug Fanapt for bipolar disorder, while Eli Lilly's diabetes treatment Mounjaro will be in short supply due to high demand.The text discusses the impact of tensions in U.S.-China research and development (R&D) relations on the Chinese antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) investment boom. With the departure of Chinese biotech company Wuxi from Bio, concerns over national security implications of U.S.-China R&D relationships are growing. The text also mentions the appointment of a new CEO at Lonza and Avenzo's pursuit of a licensing strategy with a new $150 million investment. Overall, the biopharma industry is experiencing significant developments in drug development, mergers and acquisitions, and regulatory decisions. Stay updated with Healthcare Dive for more insights into healthcare trends and news.Thank you for tuning in to Pharma and Biotech daily. Stay informed!