News & Analysis on the Clinical Development and Manufacture of Large Molecule Drugs
Merck and Seattle Genetics have announced two strategic oncology collaborations: one to develop Seattle Genetics’ antibody-drug conjugate ladiratuzumab vedotin worldwide; and another to accelerate the global reach of Tukysa (tucatinib).
In a deal valued at US$21bn, Gilead Sciences is to acquire Immunomedics Inc, a New Jersey headquartered biotech that has been highly focused on breast cancer drug innovation.
Cytiva is to invest US$500m over the next five years to raise manufacturing capacity, hiring nearly 1,000 personnel in Austria, China, Singapore, Sweden, and the US, and bringing on new manufacturing lines, 24/7 shift patterns, and increased automation.
AstraZeneca has resumed UK clinical trials for its Oxford coronavirus vaccine, having paused all trials last week for a safety review. Other late-stage global trials, however, remain on hold while AstraZeneca waits for regulators in each market.