Over the last decade, therapeutic antibodies have fundamentally changed approaches in different areas of medicine, providing the impetus for a big leap forward in the treatment of cancers and autoimmune diseases. But could they also soon have a lasting impact on agriculture? Some pioneers predict that – in the near future – peptides, proteins and RNA will be driving markets in the fast-growing biopesticide and biostimulant sectors.
Researchers report ubiquitous cancer target
Latest NewsUK researchers have identified a highly conserved target structure that can be directed to rush dividing cancer cells into premature division and cell death.
Merck expands portfolio of liquid biopsy tests
Latest NewsMerck KGaA has expanded its portfolio of blood-based RAS diagnostics for use in patient stratification. After kicking off testing with Sysmex Inostics’ CE-marked OncoBEAM RAS CRC liquid biopsy assay last year, the German drug maker welcomed the launch of a second blood-based test to detect KRAS mutations in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC): Biocartis’ Idylla ctKRAS Mutation Assay.
TiGenix launches IPO in the US
Latest NewsEuronext Brussels-noted adipose stem cell player TiGenix NV wants to offer 2.75 million American Depositary Shares (ADS) in an IPO at Nasdaq Global Market representing 55 million of its ordinary shares which had went up from €0.91 yesterday to €0.96 (10.a.m.).
Roche licenses Novimmunes anti-TLR4 antibody
Latest NewsRoches US subsidiary Genentech has acquired an exclusive option to commercialise Novimmune’s TLR4 antibody NI-0101, the very first personalised approach to treat rheumatoid arthritis. The compound has already proved safety and drugability in a Phase I dose escalation trail.
Enterprise Therapeutics: Vital service
AppointmentsEpidarex Capital-backed respiratory disease start-up Enterprise Therapeutics has named biotech entrepreneur John Ford as its new CEO. Ford previously co-founded Xention, Ario Pharma, and Metrion Biosciences.
Mediolanum licences Apepticos TNF peptide Solnatide
Latest NewsViennese Apeptico Forschung und Entwicklung GmbH and Milan-based Mediolanum Farmaceutici S.p.A. have signed a research & development cooperation and license agreement for Apepticos compound solnatide.
A fresh take on biotech?
Latest NewsFor the second time, biotech communication start-up Labiotech hosted its event LBRefresh, this year in Paris, France. Participants enjoyed panel discussions, a start-up battle and intimate fireside chats…
Biopesticides: Of strawberries and antibodies
BackgroundConfo Therapeutics: Time for change
AppointmentsConfo Therapeutics wants to metamorphose from a tech company to a drug discovery company, and it has hired Cedric Ververken to guide the transition.
Arquer Diagnostics: New head for Dx
Appointments