The BioWorld Biopharmaceutical Index (BBI) saw an 8.15% increase at the close of May, outperforming the Dow Jones Industrial Average, which rose by 2.64%, and the Nasdaq Biotechnology Index, which was up by 0.7%. The BBI previously showed a strong performance in Q1, followed by a dip for all three indices in April, before all rebounded in May.
Evotec SE has announced scientific progress within its neuroscience collaboration with Bristol Myers Squibb Co., with a target-based program now advancing into late preclinical development. This milestone triggers a research payment of $20 million to Evotec.
In an indication with few treatment options for patients who are running out of time, Replimune Group Inc. revealed positive top-line results of its lead candidate, RP-1 (vusolimogene oderparepvec), in anti-PD-1-failed melanoma. Data from the phase I/II Ignyte study of RP-1 plus Opdivo (nivolumab, Bristol Myers Squibb Co.) showed the treatment hit the primary endpoint with a 12-month overall response rate of 33.6% and a median duration of response of more than 35 months.
Bristol Myers Squibb Co. has identified proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) compounds comprising a E3 ubiquitin ligase-binding moiety coupled to a proto-oncogene tyrosine-protein kinase receptor Ret (RET; CDHF12; PTC) targeting moiety through a linker reported to be useful for the treatment of cancer.
Bristol Myers Squibb Co. has exercised its option for an exclusive global license for PRX-019, a potential treatment of neurodegenerative diseases with an undisclosed target, under an agreement with Prothena Corp. plc.
Bristol Myers Squibb Co. and Celgene Corp. have described MAP kinase-activated protein kinase 2 (MAPKAPK2; MK2) inhibitors reported to be useful for the treatment of inflammation, cancer, fibrosis, autoimmune disorders, cardiovascular disorders, metabolic disorders and cerebrovascular disorders.
The radiopharmaceutical revolution rolls on as Eli Lilly and Co. builds on its prowess in the space with a deal that could bring Aktis Oncology Inc. $1.1 billion. The two plan to develop radiopharmaceuticals targeting cancer. Privately held Aktis also is getting $60 million in cash up front along with an equity investment. The big money would come from preclinical, clinical, regulatory, commercial milestones and tiered royalties. Lilly will select the targets.
Zai Lab Ltd., of Shanghai and Cambridge, Mass., has been on a regulatory roll in China, gaining approval of Bristol Myers Squibb Co.’s Augtyro (repotrectinib) for lung cancer on May 12 and NMPA acceptance of subcutaneous Vyvgart‘s (efgartigimod alfa SC) supplemental BLA with priority review on May 14.
Zai Lab Ltd., of Shanghai and Cambridge, Mass., has been on a regulatory roll in China, gaining approval of Bristol Myers Squibb Co.’s Augtyro (repotrectinib) for lung cancer on May 12 and NMPA acceptance of subcutaneous Vyvgart‘s (efgartigimod alfa SC) supplemental BLA with priority review on May 14.
The U.S. government chalked up another win April 29 against the constitutional challenges to the Inflation Reduction Act’s provision mandating direct Medicare price negotiations for selected prescription drugs.
