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The Readout Loud

340: Crisis in CRISPR world, RFK Jr.'s promises, and a novel non-opioid pain drug

Feb 6, 2025
Jason Mast, a reporter for STAT, delves into the troubling downturn in the once-promising CRISPR gene editing field. The discussion highlights the challenges companies face amid market skepticism and compares CRISPR innovations with RNA therapies. The conversation also touches on RFK Jr.'s controversial views as a nominee for HHS secretary, alongside insights into recent pharma earnings that spotlight successes in obesity treatments and the approval of a groundbreaking non-opioid pain drug, revealing the complexities of today’s biotech landscape.
34:45

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The CRISPR gene editing industry faces significant challenges with layoffs and skepticism over the viability of its commercial therapies.
  • Vertex Pharmaceuticals has launched a novel non-opioid pain medication, raising questions about affordability and insurance in a competitive market.

Deep dives

The Challenges Facing CRISPR Companies

The CRISPR gene editing industry is currently undergoing significant challenges, marked by widespread layoffs and declining stock prices among most companies in the field. Despite having made initial advancements, the expectation for rapid commercialization of CRISPR-derived therapies has not materialized, with significant market skepticism stemming from the limited number of patients treated with the first approved CRISPR medicine. Many firms, once riding a wave of optimism, are now struggling with tough questions surrounding their business models and the ongoing viability of their treatments. This downturn has led analysts to speculate whether these companies can find sustainable paths forward or if the industry's promise has diminished altogether.

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