Owlstone Medical, a pioneer in breath-based diagnostics from Cambridge (UK), has been awarded up to US$49.1m by the U.S. health innovation agency ARPA-H under its POSEIDON programme. The funding backs development of a synthetic-sensor MCED test capable of detecting over 30 solid tumours at Stage I using breath and urine samples, intended for at-home, over-the-counter use. But will ARPA-H be committed to funding if the restructuring of NIH and HHS in the US is moving in a different direction?
Novo buys again: 5-billion-dollar deal for Akero´s MASH
Latest NewsNovo Nordisk is to acquire US-based Akero Therapeutics in a US$5.2 billion deal aimed at reviving growth and entering the MASH-space where others like Roche and GSK have recently expanded their footprint.
New CEO strengthens management
AppointmentsFairJourney Biologics (Porto, PT) has appointed Dr Werner Lanthaler, long-standing Evotec CEO, as Chief Executive Officer. Founder António Parada will focus on innovation strategy on the Supervisory Board.
Opportunity Health SL wins start-up pitch contest
BackgroundOut of 43 pitches, the founders of Spanish Opportunity Health S.L. delivered the best presentation for a new life sciences product: a choking device that can potentially be used by anyone in emergency situations without the need for external assistance.
Panel discussion: what drives US investments?
BackgroundAlongside a start-up pitch featuring 45 international participants, the second day of BioSpain 2025 (7–9 October 2025, Barcelona) offered biotech start-ups a panel discussion with prominent US investors, who shared their selection criteria and outlined the impact of the current geopolitical situation on investment decisions.
Biomanufacturing in Switzerland
BackgroundSwitzerland is a key hub for biomanufacturing, with immunological products like antibodies
and vaccines making up 18.5% of 2024 exports. Swiss companies drive biotech innovation and biocatalysis
across sectors globally, extending the traditional focus on pharmaceuticals to fine chemicals, fragrances
and food tech. The development is supported by national collaborations and international coalitions.
Spain again tops Europe in clinical trials
BackgroundSpain has once again secured the top position in Europe for clinical trials. According to various Clinical Research Organisations at BioSpain 2025 (7–9 October, Barcelona), this is largely due to the speed with which the Spanish Medicines Agency (AEMPS) approves clinical studies.
BioSpain 2025 starts with new records
Latest NewsBioSpain 2025 opened in Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, setting a new record for both visitors and exhibitors. During the inauguration, representatives from government and industry highlighted the leading role of biotechnology in building economic and environmental resilience in Spain and across the European Union.
New CEO takes over
AppointmentsContract Research Organization Julius Clinical (NL) appointed Bassem Saleh as its new Chief Executive Officer. His predecessor, Martijn Wallert, will become an advisor to the Executive Board.
Euphoria in Milan: Italian Nanophoria closes €83m financing round in heart failure
Latest NewsItalian NanoPhoria Bioscience raises surprisingly high €83.5 million to advance novel heart failure therapy with a very early non clinical asset.
British Owlstone Medical wins ARPA-H award, but will it materialize?
Latest NewsOwlstone Medical, a pioneer in breath-based diagnostics from Cambridge (UK), has been awarded up to US$49.1m by the U.S. health innovation agency ARPA-H under its POSEIDON programme. The funding backs development of a synthetic-sensor MCED test capable of detecting over 30 solid tumours at Stage I using breath and urine samples, intended for at-home, over-the-counter use. But will ARPA-H be committed to funding if the restructuring of NIH and HHS in the US is moving in a different direction?