Weekly Recap: 14 Health Press Releases You Shouldn't Miss
Keeping up with the never-ending stream of press releases can be quite a challenge, especially in the healthcare sector where developments occur weekly—sometimes daily. This week on PR Newswire, a host of significant announcements has been made that healthcare professionals and consumers alike should know about. Here’s a consolidation of the most impactful press releases from the past week, showcasing groundbreaking advancements, collaborations, and approvals that are shaping the future of health.
1. Wegovy® Approved for Non-Cirrhotic MASH
Wegovy® has received FDA approval to treat adults diagnosed with non-cirrhotic Metabolic Associated Steatotic Hepatitis (MASH). This accelerated approval was granted due to promising results from the ESSENCE trial, which highlighted significant improvements in liver fibrosis without worsening steatohepatitis compared to a placebo.
2. Viking Therapeutics Celebrates Phase 2 Success
Viking Therapeutics has announced encouraging results from its Phase 2 VENTURE trial of VK2735, showing significant weight loss in obesity patients—marking a notable step forward in treatment options. The trial's focus was on the safety and effectiveness of VK2735, emphasizing its tolerability over 13 weeks.
3. Skyhawk and Merck Collaborate on Neurological Treatments
In an exciting new partnership, Skyhawk Therapeutics will work with Merck KGaA to explore RNA-targeting small molecules aimed at treating neurological disorders, a complicated field that has proven challenging for traditional therapies.
4. Aon Funds eMed’s Population Health Platform
Aon has made a strategic investment in eMed Population Health, enhancing its digital healthcare platform which integrates at-home diagnostics and clinician-guided prescriptions to expand patient and employer access.
5. Breakthrough Designation for Izalontamab Brengitecan
The U.S. FDA has granted Breakthrough Therapy Designation to Izalontamab Brengitecan for advanced EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer, a pivotal moment aimed at addressing unmet medical needs in this patient population.
6. Precigen’s PAPZIMEOS Now FDA Approved
Precigen's PAPZIMEOS has secured full FDA approval as the sole therapy for adults suffering from Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis, fulfilling a long-awaited gap in treatment availability.
7. OpenEvidence’s AI Milestone
OpenEvidence has achieved a remarkable milestone by producing the first AI to score a perfect 100% on the USMLE, presenting a breakthrough in medical education and the potential for improved physician training.
8. Abbott and Big Ten Conference Blood Drive Challenge
Abbott has partnered with the Big Ten Conference for a charitable initiative encouraging blood donations from students and alumni to boost community health, with incentives for participating schools.
9. Stealth Biotherapeutics Resubmits Drug Application
After addressing FDA feedback, Stealth Biotherapeutics has resubmitted its NDA for Elamipretide, aiming to treat Barth Syndrome, underlining the company’s commitment to overcoming hurdles in the process.
10. Galvanize Enrolls First Patient in PROPEL Registry
Galvanize has successfully enrolled the first patient in the PROPEL Registry, which is crucial for assessing the efficacy of their Aliya® technology in treating soft tissue lesions.
11. Labcorp’s Blood Test for Alzheimer’s
Labcorp has launched the first FDA-cleared blood test designed to provide diagnoses for Alzheimer's disease, facilitating easier and more accessible screening for this condition.
12. Collaborative AI in Biopharma
Ginkgo Datapoints has teamed up with Tangible Scientific and Inductive Bio to create AI-driven workflows facilitating drug discovery, significantly enhancing efficiency and reducing costs in the biopharma sector.
13. IQVIA and Veeva Enter Partnership
IQVIA and Veeva have established a long-term cooperation in clinical trials, aiming to leverage their collective strengths to improve clinical data management and study outcomes.
14. Biotech Breakthrough in Rare Disorder
A San Diego-based biotech startup has made notable strides in treating a rare neurodevelopmental disorder, indicating promising results in the first patient treated with a novel mRNA therapy.
As this roundup illustrates, the health sector is vibrant and constantly evolving, with collaborations and innovations paving the way for more efficient treatments and care solutions. Stay tuned for more updates, and consider subscribing for ongoing insights into the latest developments.*