Entries by Georg Kääb

2026: A year of reckoning for BioNTech

For BioNTech, 2026 could become one of the most decisive years since its pandemic-driven breakthrough. The pipeline is broad, the coffers are well stocked, partnerships are numerous, and the outlook extends far beyond 2030. Yet despite all the strategic preparation, one key question will be answered in the coming months: can the clinical data live up to the high expectations surrounding BioNTech’s cancer strategy?

Numab’s billion-dollar antibody deal takes an unexpected turn

Just over a year and a half ago, Swiss biotech Numab AG, based in Horgen on Lake Zurich, made the headlines when it sold a single antibody to Johnson & Johnson for US$1.25 billion via a spin-out vehicle. No back-loaded milestones, no future contingencies — but cash up front, as one might say, straight into the pocket.

Better late than never: Bayer eyes a slice of the mRNA vaccine pie

Patent disputes are part of everyday life in pharma. What is unusual is the timing. More than three years after the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic, Bayer has launched a broad patent offensive against the makers of mRNA vaccines – just as the market has cooled and the pandemic feels firmly in the rear-view mirror. Understandable from a financial perspective, perhaps, but still raising questions about the timing.

Evotec benefits from Dark Blue acquisition by Amgen

The acquisition of Oxford-based Dark Blue Therapeutics by US biotechnology company Amgen Inc. has produced a German beneficiary: Hamburg-based Evotec SE. Through an early collaboration with the Oxford scientists, Evotec secured an equity stake and will now participate in the proceeds of the transaction.

Berlin: Why Start-ups Choose Bayer Co.Lab

One year after the inauguration of Bayer Co.Lab — the open workspace for start-ups in Berlin — it is time to take stock. European Biotechnology News Magazine
spoke with tenants and with Dr Ruth Shah, Head of Bayer Co.Lab Berlin, about the concept, the offering, and the feedback Bayer has received so far.

Selecting a CDMO for Custom Activated PEGs

This article examines the critical success factors for PEGylated therapies and the decision-making process for when a custom PEG may be warranted rather than an off-the-shelf solution. The essential role of a contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) with deep expertise in activated PEG chemistry is highlighted.
Authors: Raymond Behrendt, Silvia Kaden-Vagt, Lotfi Bouchekioua, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany