This week’s edition of InnovationRx covers a new biotech fund led by Recursion, changes in bird flu strategy by the Trump Administration, FDA approval of a new vaccine, Nvidia’s latest AI model for life sciences, and more. Sign up to receive it in your inbox here.
Recursion CEO Chris Gibson
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The Trump Administration’s policies on spending freezes and grant cuts have created challenges for the biotech industry. Despite federal judges halting spending freezes, the uncertain environment and persistent inflation make it difficult for early-stage biotech startups to secure the necessary funds.
In response to these policy changes, Recursion announced the launch of a pre-seed venture fund through its biotech accelerator Altitude Lab to support biotech startups. The fund will offer up to $250,000 in capital, 12 months of lab space, and access to Altitude Lab’s accelerator program for biotech startups reviewed for Small Business Innovation Research grants.
Recursion CEO expressed his motivation for starting the fund, stating, “If policymakers fail to act swiftly to restore this funding, then it’s up to us to bridge the gap. I’m eager to share what we’ve learned in launching Altitude Lab Fund and to collaborate with others who are committed to sustaining biotech innovation during this uncertain time.”
Trump Administration Shifts Strategy for Avian Flu Control
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Avian flu cases are increasing among dairy and chicken farms, leading to higher egg prices and more human infections. The Trump Administration has announced a shift in strategy for controlling the outbreak, moving towards stronger containment and vaccinations instead of mass culling of flocks.
The Department of Agriculture recently granted a conditional license to Zoetis for an avian flu vaccine for poultry. The vaccine aims to reduce human exposure to the disease, especially among farm workers involved in poultry culling operations.
The approval of avian flu vaccines for poultry and dairy cattle could help minimize the risk of transmission to humans and improve overall control of the outbreak.
BIOTECH AND PHARMA
The FDA has approved GSK’s new vaccine for invasive meningococcal disease in individuals aged 10 to 25 years. This vaccine targets all five major bacteria types that cause the disease, offering a comprehensive approach to prevention.
DIGITAL HEALTH AND AI
Nvidia has introduced Evo 2, an AI foundation model developed by the nonprofit Arc Institute and researchers from UC San Francisco, Stanford, and UC Berkeley. This model, trained on the DNA of over 100,000 species, aims to enhance genetic research across species and enable the design of genomes for simple bacteria.
MEDTECH
iRhythm Technologies, known for its wearable heart monitor, plans to expand its monitoring technology to detect additional diseases, starting with sleep apnea. By utilizing AI to analyze heart signals for irregularities, the company aims to prevent heart attacks and strokes by identifying early warning signs.
PUBLIC HEALTH AND HOSPITALS
The CDC’s advisory board has raised concerns about widespread cuts to public health services across agencies, citing risks posed by ongoing outbreaks such as Ebola, avian flu, and seasonal influenza. The board emphasized the importance of maintaining expertise and resources to effectively respond to public health crises.
DEAL OF THE WEEK
Lithuanian biotech startup Atrandi Biosciences secured a $25 million series A round led by Lux Capital. The company’s innovative capsule technology for single-cell analysis aims to enhance research efficiency in labs. With the new funding, Atrandi Biosciences plans to further develop its technology and expand operations in the United States.
WHAT WE’RE READING
Recent developments include the reversal of plans to shut down a program providing free Covid-19 tests, record remission from cancer after CAR-T therapy, and potential review of childhood vaccination schedules.
Additionally, studies have linked generic drugs from India to more severe adverse events, and AI voice clones are helping patients with motor neuron diseases communicate.
For more updates and insights, visit Forbes.
