Explore the latest developments in drug discovery, including a pharmaceutical company's strategic acquisition aimed at CNS treatments. Learn about innovative partnerships, like those between Vertex Pharmaceuticals and Orna Therapeutics, driving advancements in gene therapies. Discover a promising collaboration focused on ALS therapies, as well as Xylo Core Therapeutics' impressive funding success to further angina treatment research. The podcast covers exciting industry trends and insights as 2025 kicks off with strong momentum.
Nurex Farm's strategic acquisition of Provigil and NuVigil reflects their commitment to expanding CNS treatment access in global markets.
The collaboration between Vertex Pharmaceuticals and Orna Therapeutics aims to innovate gene therapies for Sickle Cell Disease, highlighting advancements in biotechnology.
Deep dives
Nurex Farm Expands CNS Portfolio
Nurex Farm has acquired the rights to two CNS stimulant medications, Provigil and NuVigil, which are indicated for treating excessive daytime sleepiness in adults with narcolepsy. This strategic acquisition allows Nurex Farm to enhance its portfolio and establish a stronger presence in international markets, particularly in Europe, Australia, and Mexico. The company plans to leverage its expertise to increase accessibility to these treatments for patients with unmet needs, demonstrating their commitment to expanding CNS brands globally. This move follows earlier successful partnerships and acquisitions that underscore Nurex Farm's growth strategy in the CNS market.
Innovations in Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine
Vertex Pharmaceuticals and Orna Therapeutics have formed a collaboration to develop gene therapies for Sickle Cell Disease and beta-thalassemia, utilizing Orna's innovative delivery systems. The three-year partnership includes significant financial incentives, potentially amounting to over $1 billion, contingent upon achieving development and commercialization milestones. Similarly, Aspect Biosystems has secured funding to advance its bioprinted tissue therapeutics aimed at metabolic and endocrine diseases, integrating AI technology and cell therapy. These initiatives represent significant advances in biotechnology, addressing critical health challenges with the potential to transform patient care.
The latest episode of the DDW Highlights podcast is now available to listen to and watch below. DDW’s Megan Thomas narrates five key stories of the week to keep DDW subscribers up-to-date on the latest industry updates.
Our news round-up at the end of last year focused on drug discovery investment, so it is positive to see that this has also started strong in 2025, with a number of new acquisitions, research partnership agreements and financings to kick off the new year.