Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Meghana Keshavan
Published on 2024-04-01 13:22:26
Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery about tumor-suppressor genes and their role in targeting aggressive pediatric tumor cells. At the same time, a controversial decision by a U.K. health agency regarding an ALS drug made by Biogen has raised concerns in the medical community.
One of the key highlights is the delay in Biogen and Eisai’s FDA application for a subcutaneous version of the Alzheimer’s drug Leqembi. The FDA has requested additional data and a Fast Track designation-specific application, delaying the approval process.
Researchers have identified a genetic clue to suppressing a fatal childhood tumor known as rhabdoid tumors. These tumors are caused by mutations that inactivate a gene called SMARCB1, which is part of a tumor-suppressing complex. By targeting another gene called DCAF5, researchers were able to turn malignant cells back into ordinary ones. This discovery offers a new pathway for treating hard-to-treat cancers and has the potential to revolutionize cancer treatment in the future.
In another development, a U.K. health agency’s decision to subject Biogen’s ALS drug Qalsody to standard approval channels instead of a special pathway for rare diseases has raised concerns. This decision could make it harder for the medicine, which is only viable for about 2% of ALS patients, to win approval. Critics fear that this decision could have a “chilling effect” on access to new genetic medicines in the country.
On the affordability front, a study in JAMA Network Open has found that generic versions of diabetes drugs, including GLP-1 drugs, could be significantly cheaper than branded drugs while still maintaining a profitable margin. This could potentially make these drugs more accessible to a larger population of patients in need.
San Diego-based Aardvark Therapeutics is making headlines with its plans for a $200 million IPO. The company’s lead drug, ARD-101, has shown promising results in suppressing hunger cravings in patients with Prader-Willi syndrome, a rare genetic form of obesity. If successful, the drug could be approved by 2026 and could be worth billions in the market.
In conclusion, these recent developments in the biotech industry showcase the ongoing efforts to push the boundaries of science and innovation in healthcare. From groundbreaking discoveries in cancer treatment to potential breakthroughs in genetic medicines, the future of biotech holds promise for transforming the way we approach and treat various medical conditions. Stay updated on the latest news and trends in biotech by signing up for our newsletter.
