The Readout Loud 381: The future of American science and a dispatch from ASH
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Dec 11, 2025 Megan Molteni, an investigative science reporter, and Anil Oza, a fellow science reporter, dive deep into the turmoil at the NIH in their latest discussion. They explore the impacts of federal policy changes on American science and the unsettling loss of trust between researchers and the government. With a focus on reforms, they debate the balance needed between innovation and stability. The conversation also touches on the geopolitical stakes for U.S. scientific leadership and what researchers need to watch for in 2026.
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Tiny Company, Big CML Win
- Terns Pharmaceuticals' new CML drug may be best-in-class based on striking trial data at ASH.
- The company's diverse, previously unfocused pipeline produced a standout oncology candidate that grabbed attention.
Two Antibodies, Big Benefit — With Tradeoffs
- Johnson & Johnson's two-antibody combo produced a dramatic clinical benefit in second-line multiple myeloma.
- Significant infection risks and open questions about positioning versus CAR-T temper enthusiasm.
Oral Sickle Cell Candidate Looks Promising
- Fulcrum's oral drug raised fetal hemoglobin in early sickle cell trials, offering a simpler alternative to gene therapies.
- The data are preliminary but promising given the rollout difficulties of genetic medicines.