Biotech news from around the world

1. SWITZERLAND

A new law proposed by the Federal Council would ease restrictions on plants developed through new genomic techniques such as CRISPR. Currently in Switzerland, such plants are treated similarly to those developed through conventional genetic engineering, including an ongoing moratorium on cultivation. If passed, the Breeding Technologies Act would enact a risk-based authorization system that reflects the potential of new breeding technologies and the need for appropriate safeguards.

2. GERMANY

Heidelberg-based research institute BioMed X launches an initiative designed to support US-based biomedical researchers impacted by the current NIH funding gaps, hiring freezes and grant terminations. The XBridge Program offers a fast-track pathway for principal investigators in human disease research to connect with potential pharma industry sponsors to continue their research.

3. CHINA

Belief BioMed of Shanghai receives approval for its domestically developed hemophilia B gene therapy dalnacogene ponparvovec. The single-dose treatment delivers an optimized human coagulation factor IX (FIX) gene into liver cells using a recombinant adeno-associated virus vector, enabling continuous expression of the coagulation factor and thus addressing the underlying cause of the bleeding disorder. Takeda China will handle commercialization of the product across mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau.

4. UNITED KINGDOM

Aviva Capital Partners joins with real estate developer Socius to build a $1.3 billion cancer research and treatment center at the London Cancer Hub, adjacent to the Institute of Cancer Research and the Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust’s Sutton site. The 1 million square foot state-of-the-art research and laboratory space will bring life sciences companies together with academic researchers and clinicians to drive innovation in cancer research.

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