Biotech
Bharat Biotech, GSK join hands to develop vaccine for severe diarrhoea
Bharat Biotech and GSK plc have partnered to develop a vaccine for Shigellosis, a severe bacterial diarrhea. The altSonflex1-2-3 vaccine candidate, developed by GSK, will be further developed by Bharat Biotech, including Phase 3 trials and manufacturing. This collaboration aims to address the urgent need for a Shigella vaccine due to rising antimicrobial resistance.
UAE based Shaiva Group, Taranis Capital to invest Rs 2,125 Cr in Telangana
Shaiva Group and Taranis Capital from UAE will invest Rs 2,125 crore in Telangana. They signed MoUs with five Telangana companies. Revelations Biotech, Manakin Bio and others will receive investments. This partnership will create 5,020 jobs for the youth. The firms may invest an additional Rs 24,000 crore in sectors like biotech and AI in the next three years.
Dr Reddy's, Alvotech join hands to develop biosimilar for cancer treatment
Dr. Reddy's Laboratories has partnered with Alvotech to co-develop and commercialize a biosimilar for pembrolizumab (Keytruda), a crucial cancer treatment with USD 29.5 billion in 2024 sales. The collaboration aims to expedite development and broaden global access to this biosimilar. Both companies will share development, manufacturing costs, and commercialization rights.
Biocon plans ₹4,500-cr QIP to raise stake in Biologics unit: Kiran Shaw
Biocon is planning a ₹4,500 crore fundraise to increase promoter stake in Biocon Biologics and convert structured venture debt into equity, aiming to improve profitability. The company is also considering a merger with its parent company as an alternative to an IPO due to market uncertainties.
Biocon Biologics secures market entry for Yesafili in US
Biocon Biologics has reached a settlement and licensing agreement with Regeneron, clearing the way for the US commercialization of Yesafili, its biosimilar to Eylea. The agreement allows Biocon Biologics to launch Yesafili in the US by the second half of 2026, or earlier under certain conditions. Yesafili, already approved by the USFDA, is intended for treating various ophthalmology conditions.
Bharat Biotech invests Rs 600 cr to expand into cell, gene therapies
As per Bharat Biotech, the facility will tackle scientific challenges such as targeted gene expression, immune system modulation, and long-term cell survival. Work will span from boosting immune responses against cancer to ensuring that therapeutic proteins are safely accepted in patients with genetic diseases like haemophilia.
Bharat Biotech launches cell gene therapy facility, eyes product launch by 2028
Bharat Biotech has invested $75 million in its first cell and gene therapy facility in Telangana, India, aiming to launch new therapies in three years. The company is targeting oncology and rare diseases, and is working on cost-effective treatments for the Indian market. They are also considering exporting these advanced therapies.
India's Syngene International acquires first US biologics facility for $36.5 million
India's Syngene International has agreed to acquire its first biologics facility in the U.S. from Emergent Manufacturing for $36.5 million. This move aims to expand Syngene's capabilities in the Northeast U.S. and reduce dependence on China, with the facility expected to be operational by mid-2025.
States to set up centres for effective implementation of BioE3 policy: Jitendra Singh
Union Minister Jitendra Singh emphasizes the importance of establishing BioE3 Cells in states as interconnected knowledge hubs. These cells will link state and national stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of the BioE3 policy, promoting biomanufacturing initiatives aligned with local priorities and national objectives.
Competition Commission of India penalises investment manager of Goldman Sachs AIF for failing to notify Biocon deal
The Competition Commission of India has imposed a Rs 40 lakh penalty on Goldman Sachs AIMPL for not notifying the regulator about a deal involving optionally convertible debentures issued by Biocon Biologics. CCI ruled the deal was strategic and required prior approval.
Must Watch
India's first Robotic-assisted Paediatric Gait Trainer for physical rehabilitation launched
Genrobotics launched India's first robotic-assisted Paediatric Gait Trainer, G-Gaiter Paediatric. It aims to improve physical rehabilitation for children with mobility issues. The device uses advanced VR technology and interactive games for therapy. Health Minister Veena George announced its installation at SAT Hospital in Thiruvananthapuram, enhancing healthcare with technology.
US co Intuitive Surgical bets on India growth & talent: CEO Gary S Guthart
Intuitive Surgical is increasing its focus on India due to the rising demand for robotic-assisted surgeries and the available skilled talent. With a growth rate of 17% over the past four years, the company's da Vinci systems are being widely adopted in various medical fields, helping to improve patient outcomes and address surgical skill gaps.
The Hitchhiker’s Guide to Immortality: Tech entrepreneur Bryan Johnson on 'don’t die' philosophy and mortality
Tech entrepreneur Bryan Johnson visited Mumbai, advocating for his "Don't Die" philosophy. He highlighted India's air quality issues, emphasizing the need for mitigation. Johnson detailed his rigorous health regimen, from sleep optimization to a specialized diet, aiming to reverse aging and achieve optimal biomarkers. He discussed his Blueprint protocol, a data-driven approach to longevity, and its potential societal implications.
Glenmark to focus on becoming branded company, says Glenn Saldanha
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, having navigated recent challenges, is shifting its focus to branded products for higher profit margins. The company, aiming for a 12%-15% growth rate, divested its active pharmaceutical ingredient business to concentrate on branded pharmaceuticals, particularly in respiratory, dermatology, and oncology.
Biocon Biologics looks to trim $300 million debt in 1 year
Biocon Biologics plans to reduce its acquisition debt by $300 million over the next year. The company recently refinanced $1.1 billion in debt, providing more financial flexibility. Biocon aims to capitalize on the growing insulin market, with plans to double its insulin production capacity in Malaysia.
Biocon Biologics' Bengaluru unit classified as voluntary action indicated by USFDA
Biocon Biologics' drug substance facility in Bengaluru has been classified by the USFDA as voluntary action indicated after a cGMP inspection conducted in February 2024. The classification means that while some objections were noted, no regulatory action is recommended. The facility is responsible for supplying rh-Insulin drug substance to the US.
