Roivant Sciences released Phase IIb data for RVT-3101, the UC program it acquired from Pfizer late last year, showing that the drug’s effects could be maintained for up to a year. It’s confirmation of earlier data showing success at 14 weeks — a statistically significant finding, Roivant said in January. (Endpoints News)
Cathie Wood’s Ark Invest spent millions doubling down on more big biotech stocks. Wood confirmed her bet on the investment value of biotech stocks on June 21, specifically those that dabble in gene editing, with a big purchase of CRISPR Therapeutics and Verve Therapeutics. (TheStreet)
Prime Medicine partnered with Cimeio Therapeutics to develop stem cell treatments that will target bone marrow cancers, as well as genetic disorders. Prime will develop a gene editor for an antigen called CD117, which it plans to pair with immunotherapies to create safer stem cell transplants. (Seeking Alpha)
The European Medicines Agency raised a thyroid cancer safety signal on Novo Nordisk’s semaglutide products, including Ozempic and Wegovy. Raising the safety signal means Novo Nordisk will monitor potential adverse effects of the drugs, but doesn’t mean that the link is confirmed. (Reuters)
Over the course of the year, hundreds of new fentanyl crime bills have been introduced in some 46 states, including many that allow homicide charges to be brought against those who provide fentanyl to people who die from overdoses. While the laws aim to battle the fentanyl crisis, critics say it’s not an effective public health solution. (The New York Times)
