Tourmaline Bio has dosed the first patient in its Phase 2 TRANQUILITY trial for TOUR006, an anti-IL-6 monoclonal antibody aimed at treating atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and other cardiovascular conditions.

GRI Bio, Inc. has announced positive preclinical data for its lead program, GRI-0621, in treating Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF).

Novo’s proposed acquisition of Catalent, with the immediate goal of adding capacity for its weight-loss drugs, has rarely been out of the news, whilst a raft of expansions elsewhere has been announced at Thermo Fisher, Alcami, Lonza and Vetter, to list but a few.

Engineers from MIT have developed a novel technique that uses MRI to detect bioluminescence deep in the brain, uncovering blood vessel engineering that dilates in response to light.

Sartorius has partnered with Sanofi to develop an integrated continuous biomanufacturing (ICB) platform to enhance downstream bioprocessing through the combination of Sartorius' engineering expertise with Sanofi's ICB prototypes and patents.

Google DeepMind, in collaboration with Isomorphic Labs, has introduced AlphaFold 3 - the latest iteration of its AI model for biological research and drug discovery.

A study reveals that regular aspirin use may protect against colorectal cancer by boosting the immune system's surveillance of tumor cells. Researchers found that aspirin users had less cancer spread and higher immune cell infiltration in tumors.

Following their existing lab-scale development partnership, global healthcare company Mundipharma and Vectura, the specialist inhalation CDMO, have announced they are to progress development of a more environmentally friendly reformulation of FLUTIFORM (fluticasone propionate/formoterol fumarate) pressurised metered-dose inhaler (pMDI).

The first and only oral CGRP receptor antagonist approved in the U.S. for preventing both episodic and chronic migraines in adults. The Phase 3 study of Qulipta (atogepant) demonstrated significantly reduced monthly migraine days compared to placebo over a 12-week period.

Bloom Biorenewables have recently announced the successful completion of a production campaign in partnership with custom synthesis and contract manufacturer, Valsynthèse. This collaboration has led to significant advancements in scaling up aldehyde-assisted fractionation (AAF) technology to produce uncondensed lignin, a common feedstock used directly in polyurethane materials.

Another positive story for GLP-1 weight loss drugs has been announced, suggesting medications like Wegovy may have potential benefits in treating heart failure among patients with obesity and diabetes. Typically prescribed for weight management in high-risk populations, this positive news is likely to continue the high demand for these drug substances.

Madrigal Pharmaceuticals' new drug, Rezdiffra, has recently been approved as the first treatment for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). Gastroenterologists, are highly optimistic about its potential in managing patients with moderate to advanced fibrosis and suffering from severe liver conditions such as cirrhosis.

Expanding beyond its COVID-19 vaccines, Moderna reported positive trial results for vaccines against norovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, and Varicella-Zoster virus, aiming for final-stage studies and marketing a positive move towards diversifying its product.

Amgen's MariTide shows promising results in early-stage trials, offering a novel approach to weight loss by both activating and blocking gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP) receptors, potentially mimicking the body's natural regulation process.

Redx Pharma has initiated a Phase I clinical trial for RXC008, a new class of ROCK inhibitor aimed at treating fibrostenotic Crohn's disease. This study, focusing on safety and pharmacokinetics, marks a significant step in addressing a condition currently limited to surgical interventions. Results are anticipated by year's end.

Janux Therapeutics' stock value soared after early trial results suggested its immunotherapy technology could offer potent, safer treatments for solid tumors.

Viking Therapeutics' weight loss drug showed up to 15% body weight reduction in a 13-week mid-stage trial, surpassing similar drugs from Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk. However, further validation is needed in Phase 3 trials.

GSK's oral antibiotic, gepotidacin, has shown effectiveness in a late-stage gonorrhea trial, matching the current treatment regimen's success. It's also under consideration for urinary tract infections, with approvals sought later this year.

Zealand Pharma's stock soared after announcing positive Phase 2 trial results for survodutide, a liver disease treatment with potential in the obesity market.

IQVIA has published a report "Global Trends in R&D 2024" exploring current developments and prospects in pharmaceutical research and development.