Sickle Cell Drug Development Gains Momentum Across Disease Spectrum

Transplants An Alternative To Genetic Medicines For Some

The recent ASH meeting began with US FDA approvals of the first genetic medicines for sickle cell disease, but doctors and biopharma companies still see a need for new oral therapies and other options. 

Vertex and bluebird booths at ASH 2023
Vertex and bluebird presented longer-term data at ASH • Source: Scrip

The approval of the first genetic medicines for sickle cell disease (SCD) on the eve of the American Society of Hematology (ASH) annual meeting set off a celebratory feel for the conference, held 9-12 December in San Diego, and drew increased attention to data presented at ASH for multiple novel drug candidates for the disease.

More from Clinical Trials

RemeGen Fast-Tracks Potential World-First BLys/APRIL Agent For gMG In Global Phase III Trial

 

RemeGen is planning to complete enrolment in the global Phase III RemeMG study with telitacicept in generalized myasthenia gravis by the end of 2025 or early 2026. The Chinese firm has already sidelined two other global Phase III trials with the molecule to prioritize the indication.

Equillium Seeks Accelerated Approval For GVHD Drug Despite Primary Endpoint Miss

 

The biotech is banking on itolizumab’s longer-term efficacy as well as unmet need in frontline acute graft-versus-host disease as it prepares to meet with the FDA.

Almirall CEO Sounds Alarm Over Europe’s Reduced Competitiveness

 
• By 

The head of the Spanish medical dermatology specialist told Scrip that maintaining the status quo will only result in the continent’s life sciences sector slipping further behind the US and China.

Wave Aspires To Accelerated Approval In DMD With 48-Week Data

 
• By 

With its exon 53-skipping candidate already showing promise in 24-week data, Wave now has 48-week data showing improvements in muscle health and functional outcomes.

More from Conferences

M&A Takeoff May Be Delayed, Experts Predict

 

All the elements for a big M&A year are in place, but political uncertainty and interest rates could push more deals into the second half of the year, according to business development experts at BIO CEO & Investor.

How To Work With Trump, The Future Of US Life Sciences And More: Updates From BIO CEO & Investor

 

Highlights from the BIO CEO & Investor Conference, held in New York 10-11 February, include the impact of US political changes, Chinese companies entering the obesity race, and IPO pitfalls.

BMS Enters A Catalyst-Rich Era Full Of Both LOEs And New Launches

 
• By 

Bristol Myers Squibb has been in a rapid growth phase to make up for upcoming losses of exclusivity. Scrip spoke with executives about further catalysts coming in the next 18-24 months.