This week we take a look at the latest news from the pharma industry with Moderna dipping its toes in the mRNA protein replacement therapy world, J&J seeking approval for its psoriasis drug, Mirati’s phase III kidney disease drug trial flop, and other top news!
Moderna Explores mRNA Protein Replacement Therapy Beyond Vaccines
Moderna, the biotechnology company known for its mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, is now delving into mRNA protein replacement therapy. This new approach aims to treat various diseases by utilizing mRNA technology to instruct cells to produce therapeutic proteins. While the focus has been primarily on vaccines, Moderna’s expansion into protein replacement therapy highlights the versatility of mRNA technology and its potential to revolutionize the treatment of other diseases beyond infectious ones.
J&J Seeks Approval for its plaque psoriasis treatment in Europe
Johnson & Johnson (J&J) has filed for approval of its drug Carvykti in Europe. Carvykti is a treatment for adults with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune skin condition. The submission is based on positive data from clinical trials, which demonstrated the efficacy and safety of Carvykti in improving skin clearance and reducing symptoms. If approved, Carvykti could provide a new treatment option for patients in Europe suffering from plaque psoriasis.
Bristol Myers’ Data Supports Earlier Use of Bone Marrow Disease Drug
Data from Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) has made a case for the earlier use of its bone marrow disease drug, lisocabtagene maraleucel (liso-cel). The study showed that liso-cel, a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, led to positive outcomes when used earlier in the treatment process for patients with relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma. The findings suggest that liso-cel may provide benefits to patients who receive the treatment earlier, potentially improving outcomes in this patient population.
Mirati’s Phase III Sitravatinib Combo Trial Shows Disappointing Results
Mirati Therapeutics’ Phase III trial evaluating the combination of sitravatinib and nivolumab in patients with advanced kidney cancer did not meet its primary endpoint of progression-free survival. Despite hopes that the combination therapy would show improved outcomes compared to standard-of-care treatments, the trial’s results were disappointing. Mirati will further analyze the data to gain insights and determine the next steps for the development of sitravatinib and its potential use in kidney cancer.
ElevateBio Raises $401M in Series D Funding, Partners with Novo Nordisk
ElevateBio, a cell and gene therapy company, has successfully closed a $401 million Series D funding round. The company aims to use the funds to advance its pipeline of innovative therapies for genetic diseases. Additionally, ElevateBio has formed a strategic partnership with Novo Nordisk, a global healthcare company. The collaboration will focus on developing next-generation therapies for genetic diseases, leveraging ElevateBio’s expertise in cell and gene therapies and Novo Nordisk’s experience in protein-based therapeutics.
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