In a late-stage trial, Valneva’s experimental COVID-19 vaccine showed efficacy similar to AstraZeneca’s offering. Valneva’s vaccine uses more traditional technology than mRNA vaccines and aims to be a more reassuring option for people who remain vaccine-hesitant. (Reuters)
Biogen’s experimental ALS drug, tofersen, failed to show efficacy in reducing neurologic and functional decline among patients in its latest study. The results represent a setback for the ALS patient community as well as Biogen’s research pipeline. (STAT)
Vertex said its type 1 diabetes cell therapy effectively treated a patient by removing the need for insulin injections. The results signal a potential step toward reaching a diabetes cure. (Endpoints News)
Some 76 million people worldwide experienced anxiety problems during the pandemic – a 26% jump from 2019 to 2020, according to a new study. The research also found there were 53 million new cases of depressive disorder spurred by the pandemic. (The Washington Post)
Merck will let generic manufacturers sell its COVID-19 therapy molnupiravir at a lower price in low-income countries, including many in sub-Saharan Africa. Pfizer and Moderna, however, have not accepted license agreements that would allow manufacturers abroad to manufacture their vaccines. (The New York Times)
