The Readout Loud

In this discussion, Matt Herper, a STAT reporter focused on cancer immunotherapy, joins Bob Duggan, co-CEO of Summit, to delve into recent turbulence in cancer treatments. They explore a groundbreaking drug that outperforms Merck's Keytruda in lung cancer trials. The talk shifts to the complexities faced by Moderna, balancing vaccine production with drug development despite having ample cash reserves. Finally, they examine ethical concerns surrounding obesity drugs tested in children and their implications for future treatments.

Discover the exciting potential of amylin hormone treatments for obesity, promising fewer side effects than existing options. Dive into the impressive performance of Summit Therapeutics' cancer drug against Merck's Keytruda. Explore the mixed results from Recursion's AI-driven drug candidate and its implications for future development. Plus, get insights on the evolving landscape of obesity treatments and the challenges faced by various players in the pharmaceutical industry.

In this engaging discussion, gene therapy pioneer Jim Wilson, known for his groundbreaking work at the University of Pennsylvania, shares insights on his recent departure and future plans. Joining him is Jonathan Wosen, a biotech reporter, who sheds light on the surprising closure of a gene editing company and the challenges facing the industry. They explore Eli Lilly's new pricing strategy for its obesity drug, Zepbound, and the shift toward direct-to-consumer sales. The conversation captures the dynamic, often unpredictable nature of biotech today.

Casey Ross, a reporter at the intersection of technology and healthcare, and Bob Herman, a journalist specializing in healthcare and business, dive into the complex role of AI in determining medical coverage. They discuss the troubling case of Frances Walter, showcasing how automated decisions can jeopardize vulnerable patients. The conversation highlights the tensions between AI efficiency and personalized care, raising ethical concerns about transparency and accountability in healthcare. Their insights urge a critical look at AI's growing influence on patient welfare.

Discussing a significant leadership shift at BioMarin, the new chief business officer steps in as the company navigates challenges in gene therapy commercialization. New findings on Eli Lilly's obesity drug Zepbound reveal its potential to lower diabetes risk while raising concerns about mental health impacts. The conversation turns to Recursion Pharmaceuticals, exploring their innovative use of AI in drug development, skepticism about the technology's effectiveness, and insights into their unique headquarters designed for creativity and collaboration.

Rachel Cohrs Zhang, chief Washington correspondent for STAT, talks about the recent pharmaceutical negotiations with Medicare, highlighting significant discounts and the industry's reactions. Meghana Keshavan dives into the world of psychedelics, discussing the troubling retraction of three pivotal research papers and FDA setbacks for notable therapies. They explore the ethical implications of these developments and the future of psychedelic treatments in mental health, emphasizing the implications for regulatory integrity and research credibility.

John Wilkerson, a Washington Correspondent for STAT, dives into the intense landscape of drug pricing negotiations under the Inflation Reduction Act. He sheds light on the implications these negotiations have for the biotech sector. The discussion also highlights the merger between AI drug firms Recursion Pharmaceuticals and Exscientia. Additionally, Wilkerson touches on Novo Nordisk's pause on Wegovy's regulatory submission for heart failure patients, revealing the complex dynamics of pharmaceutical acquisitions in a competitive market.

Andrew Joseph, STAT's Europe correspondent, dives into the 40-year journey of developing malaria vaccines, shedding light on the immense collaborative efforts in sub-Saharan Africa. He also examines Sarepta Therapeutics’ controversial censorship of a patient video, raising questions about transparency in gene therapy. The conversation reveals the ethical dilemmas faced by patients and the impact of corporate influence on advocacy. Additionally, Joseph discusses Mount Sinai's attempts to suppress discussions on their contentious brain research, illustrating challenges in accountability within the biotech industry.

Tara Bannow, hospitals and insurance reporter, discusses how UnitedHealth uses its physician network for profits. The podcast also covers Viking's obesity drug advancements, FDA official departure, and Kamala Harris' health policies.

JD Vance, Donald Trump's running mate, discusses healthcare policies if Trump wins. They cover shortages of insulin and focus on GLP-1 drugs. Also, the controversy over Cassava's Alzheimer's drug and leadership changes at Gilead.