Genomic sequencing specialist Wuxi Nextcode Inc. has received a significant cash infusion to further develop what it is calling the "gold standard" for a genomics database. The Shanghai-based company closed on a $240 million series B funding round it started near the end of the first quarter. Previously, the company had raised about $30 million. Read More
SHANGHAI – For the first time in its 12-year history, the International Conference for Rare Diseases and Orphan Drugs (ICORD) convened its annual event in China. The event marks a milestone for the local event partner, the Chinese Organization for Rare Disorders (CORD), a patient advocacy non-governmental organization that has managed to thrive in China's harsh civil society climate. Read More
Japanese researchers have identified a potent novel enhancer of neural stem cells (NSCs) and, hence, neurogenesis, with its prenatal administration having been shown to normalize both brain structure and function in mouse models of Down syndrome. Read More
PERTH, Australia – The process to get innovative new drugs listed on Australia's Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) can be a long and arduous process, and pharma companies waiting to get innovative drugs listed will continue to face mounting pressure and lengthy price negotiations. Read More
PERTH, Australia – New listings of higher-priced innovative drugs on Australia's government-subsidized Pharmaceutical Benefit Scheme (PBS) illustrate the government's commitment to list new innovative drugs, and pharma companies will see improved commercial opportunities in Australia, according to a recent BMI Research report. Read More
Eisai Co. Ltd., of Tokyo, said it signed a deal with Merck & Co. Inc., of Kenilworth, N.J., to increase the target number of endometrial carcinoma patients to be enrolled in a phase Ib/ II study of its in-house discovered and developed multikinase inhibitor, lenvatinib mesylate (marketed as Lenvima/Kisplyx), in combination with Merck's anti-PD-1 therapy, Keytruda (pembrolizumab), due to encouraging initial data. Read More
