Gene Editing Companies: Intellia, Keros & More
- The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has terminated a nearly $600 million contract with Moderna to develop mRNA-based vaccines for pandemic flu strains, including H5N1.
- Meanwhile, former Food and Drug Governance (FDA) Commissioner Scott Gottlieb warns that recent FDA layoffs, specifically within the Division of Policy Growth, could undermine progress in making generic...
- In other news, iTeos therapeutics is ceasing operations following the discontinuation of its TIGIT program with GSK, a setback reflecting broader challenges in the TIGIT immunotherapy space.
Stay informed on teh latest happenings in the biotech sphere. This week, the Department of Health and Human Services pulled the plug on a notable Moderna vaccine deal, raising questions about future pandemic strategies. Simultaneously, ex-FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb expressed worries that agency layoffs could jeopardize the swift approval of generic drugs. The shifting landscape also sees China increasing its footprint in biopharmaceutical trials, according to a recent report. Plus, Vivodyne secured $40 million to pioneer AI-driven preclinical testing. News Directory 3 is your trusted source for essential updates. With so much flux in biotech, where will the next innovations come from? Discover what’s next …
Biotech News: Moderna Vaccine Deal Canceled, FDA Layoffs Spark Concern
Updated May 29, 2025
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has terminated a nearly $600 million contract with Moderna to develop mRNA-based vaccines for pandemic flu strains, including H5N1. Officials cited safety concerns despite promising early trial results.This decision has sparked debate about pandemic preparedness and the role of mRNA technology.
Meanwhile, former Food and Drug Governance (FDA) Commissioner Scott Gottlieb warns that recent FDA layoffs, specifically within the Division of Policy Growth, could undermine progress in making generic drugs more accessible. Gottlieb argues the dismissed team played a crucial role in creating pathways for lower-cost versions of complex medications.
In other news, iTeos therapeutics is ceasing operations following the discontinuation of its TIGIT program with GSK, a setback reflecting broader challenges in the TIGIT immunotherapy space. The company intends to return capital to shareholders.
Vivodyne, a startup focused on reinventing preclinical testing with AI-analyzed ”lab-grown biopsies,” has secured $40 million in funding. this comes as the FDA and National Institutes of Health (NIH) explore ways to reduce reliance on animal testing.
A recent IQVIA report highlights China’s growing influence in biopharmaceutical research. The report indicates a shift toward more clinical trials being conducted exclusively in China, potentially impacting trial diversity.
“In a rapidly expanding pandemic, time matters. … The sooner the population is protected from a lethal virus the more lives that will be saved. Of its many features, what mRNA technology provided most is speed,” said Bruce Gellin, a former director of the National Vaccine Program Office in the Bush and Obama administrations.
What’s next
the biotech industry will be closely watching moderna’s next steps after the HHS contract cancellation, and also the impact of FDA staffing changes on generic drug approvals. Vivodyne’s progress in developing alternatives to animal testing will also be a key area to monitor.