Moderna

CDC updated RSV vaccine recommendations, now advising shots for adults 75+ and high-risk individuals aged 60-74, diverging from last year's broader advice. The change, based on real-world data, aims to prioritize those at highest risk. This adjustment impacts vaccine makers GSK, Moderna, and Pfizer, narrowing their target market. Concerns over vaccine efficacy and a potential link to Guillain-Barré syndrome influenced the decision. Moderna's new RSV vaccine shows lower long-term efficacy compared to GSK and Pfizer's offerings.

Over 60 mRNA cancer vaccines are in clinical trials, with 2 in Phase III. The US and China lead in trials, focusing on skin cancer. mRNA vaccines, promising for personalized cancer treatment, could see first approval by 2029, potentially generating $5 billion in sales within five years.

A nasal COVID-19 vaccine trial, using a live-weakened virus to deliver a stabilized spike protein, aims for better protection against variants by building robust mucosal immunity. This approach could overcome current vaccines' limitations, including efficacy over time and logistical challenges, offering a promising step in virus control.

The FDA approved Moderna's RSV vaccine, mResvia, for adults 60+, following GSK and Pfizer's vaccines. Aimed at preventing RSV, which severely affects infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised, the vaccine is expected by fall. Moderna's mRNA-based vaccine targets RSV's prefusion F protein, offering ease of use with a prefilled syringe.

Liposomes are key in targeted drug delivery, offering low immunogenicity and high versatility. Techniques like PEGylation enhance pharmacokinetics, while active targeting increases specificity. Challenges include the ABC phenomenon and stability issues. Despite hurdles, liposomes show promise in treating various diseases, with ongoing research to optimize their efficacy and safety.

Merck announced the discontinuation of the vibostolimab and pembrolizumab coformulation arm in the Phase 3 KeyVibe-010 trial for high-risk melanoma due to futility criteria. Patients are recommended to switch to KEYTRUDA monotherapy. Merck continues to explore novel treatments, including a lung cancer study with the coformulation.

Moderna reports a narrower Q1 loss, focusing on cost-cutting and innovation. CEO Stephane Bancel discusses balancing investments, especially in RSV vaccines and cancer treatments, leveraging AI for drug development efficiency, and anticipating regulatory approvals for new products.

The global biotechnology market, valued at USD 1.54 Trillion in 2023, is projected to reach USD 5.68 Trillion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 13.95%. Growth is driven by government support, personalized medicine, COVID-19 vaccine development, agricultural biotech applications, and advancements in gene editing and synthetic biology. North America leads the market, while Asia Pacific is expected to grow the fastest.

Six COVID-19 vaccine innovation models were identified, each with different implications for global access, speed, and pricing. Western firms initially led in rapid vaccine development and delivery, but middle-income countries (MICs) are increasingly significant, especially in supplying other MICs. Public funding played a crucial role, highlighting governments' responsibility to ensure equitable access in future pandemics.