Court Blocks NIH Plan to Cut University Overhead Payments
Summary:
A U.S. appeals court upheld a ruling preventing the NIH from imposing a flat 15% indirect cost rate on research grants, keeping negotiated overhead reimbursements in place. The judges found the policy unlawful and reaffirmed Congress’s intent to protect existing funding structures for academic institutions.
U.S. Vaccine Policy Shift Weighs on Investor Confidence
Summary:
The Trump administration’s move to scale back routine childhood vaccine recommendations has increased policy uncertainty for vaccine makers like Merck and Pfizer, dampening investor enthusiasm despite some categories remaining protected. While public health groups warn of risks, investors are largely staying cautious and looking beyond vaccines amid ongoing regulatory headwinds.
Millions Turn to ChatGPT for Healthcare Guidance Amid System Strain
Summary:
OpenAI reports that over 40 million people use ChatGPT daily for healthcare questions, reflecting growing frustration with healthcare cost, access, and quality – especially in underserved areas and outside clinic hours. The data suggest AI is increasingly used to navigate insurance, interpret medical information, and support self-advocacy, while policymakers and clinicians explore clearer frameworks for responsible healthcare AI use.
Lilly Expands Obesity Pipeline With $1.3B Nimbus Deal
Summary:
Eli Lilly has signed a new multi-year collaboration with Nimbus Therapeutics, paying $55 million upfront and up to $1.3 billion in milestones to develop a preclinical oral obesity drug. The deal reinforces Lilly’s aggressive push to lead the obesity market as it advances its oral candidate orforglipron and widens its metabolic disease pipeline.
CDC Removes Six Vaccines From Routine Childhood Schedule
Summary:
Following a Trump-directed review led by HHS Secretary RFK Jr., the CDC eliminated routine childhood recommendations for six vaccines, including flu, COVID-19, and hepatitis A and B, shifting them to specialist consultation only. The move has drawn sharp criticism from medical groups, who warn that the opaque process and departure from established evidence could undermine public trust and child health.
