Merck Bets $6.7B on Promising Leukemia Drug to Challenge Market Leader
Summary:
Merck & Co. plans to acquire Terns Pharmaceuticals for $6.7 billion to gain access to TERN-701, an early-stage but potentially differentiated treatment for chronic myeloid leukemia that could rival Scemblix. Despite the deal’s relatively low premium, the drug’s strong early efficacy and safety data make it a strategic move for Merck as it expands its oncology pipeline ahead of looming patent losses.
Immutrin Secures $87M to Enter Competitive ATTR-CM Drug Race
Summary:
Immutrin has raised $87 million in Series A funding to advance an antibody therapy for ATTR-CM, a progressive genetic heart disease, into early clinical trials. The company aims to differentiate its approach – clearing toxic protein deposits – within a crowded field that includes Pfizer, Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, and BridgeBio.
FDA Approves Denali’s Hunter Syndrome Therapy Targeting Brain Symptoms
Summary:
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Denali Therapeutics’ enzyme replacement therapy Avlayah (tividenofusp alfa), the first treatment for Hunter syndrome to address neurological symptoms by crossing the blood-brain barrier.
Philips Wins FDA Clearance for AI-Guided Heart Valve Procedure Tool
Summary:
Philips has received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for DeviceGuide, an AI-powered tool that assists physicians in real-time during complex mitral valve repair procedures. Developed with Edwards Lifesciences, the system enhances visualization and navigation in the beating heart, aiming to improve precision, reduce procedure time, and support safer outcomes.
Trump Taps Big Tech Leaders for AI-Focused Science Council
Summary:
President Donald Trump has appointed top tech executives, including leaders from Nvidia and Meta Platforms, to the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology to help shape U.S. strategy in artificial intelligence. The move underscores a push to strengthen national leadership in AI through closer collaboration with industry and reduced regulatory barriers amid rising competition with China.
