BAYER AG

Absci Corp. developed de novo antibodies against HER2 using zero-shot generative AI, without prior data on successful antibodies. This AI-designed antibodies, tested in a wet lab, show potential for novel cancer therapies. Absci plans to have a drug in clinical trials by 2024, marking a significant advancement in AI-driven drug discovery.

The Type 1 Diabetes Market, valued at US$ 7.59 billion in 2022, is projected to grow to US$ 13.64 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 7.6%. Treatment involves external insulin support, primarily through parenteral administration. The market is competitive, with major players investing in R&D for effective treatments. Key segments include devices, end-users, and products.

Infertility drugs, including gonadotrophins and SERMs, treat reproductive health issues, aiding ovulation and sperm quality. The market faces growth from rising infertility cases and R&D for treatments like OXO-001, despite COVID-19 impacts and adverse effects risks. North America leads due to high adoption and research activity.

The biopharmaceutical industry fears the Inflation Reduction Act's drug price negotiation could harm R&D investments. Despite concerns, major firms report increased R&D spending and optimistic future earnings. M&A activity remains strong, with a focus on small molecule drugs and treatments for older adults, showing little impact from the IRA.

Bayer submitted a regulatory application to China’s NMPA for darolutamide, an oral androgen receptor inhibitor, to treat metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) with docetaxel. Supported by Phase III ARASENS trial results showing improved overall survival, darolutamide, marketed as Nubeqa™, is already approved in over 60 markets for non-metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. Bayer aims to address the rising prostate cancer incidence in China, emphasizing the need for treatments that extend survival and delay disease progression.

Bayer submitted an application to Japan's MHLW for darolutamide's new indication, combining it with docetaxel and ADT for metastatic prostate cancer treatment. This follows positive Phase III ARASENS trial results showing improved survival. Darolutamide, marketed as Nubeqa™, is already approved for non-metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer in over 60 markets.

Evotec and Exscientia used AI to develop an anticancer molecule in 8 months, a process traditionally taking 4-5 years. Exscientia's AI platform accelerates drug discovery, leading to partnerships and significant funding. AI's role in drug discovery is expanding, with companies like Recursion and BenevolentAI leveraging AI for innovative treatments and collaborations with pharma giants.

Biotech has shifted from single-technology focus to a portfolio model, where a central team manages multiple companies across technologies and diseases. This model, exemplified by BridgeBio and Roivant Sciences, leverages expertise in various areas, raising $6 billion by 2020. It offers diversified investment, simplified governance, and attracts top talent, despite risks of systemic failure and inefficiencies. The model is reshaping biotech R&D, offering alternatives to traditional funding and increasing competition for assets and talent.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the pharmaceutical industry by enhancing drug discovery, development, and productivity. It aids in reducing human workload, achieving targets quickly, and improving clinical trials. AI's role spans from drug repurposing to product management, facing challenges like data quality and skilled personnel shortage. Despite these, AI's integration promises faster, cost-effective, and safer drug development, with significant market growth expected.

The pharmaceutical industry evolved from 19th-century roots, with companies like Merck and Pfizer pioneering drug manufacturing. Key developments include insulin, penicillin, and the contraceptive pill. The 21st century has seen advances in immunotherapy and gene therapy, alongside challenges like drug pricing and antibiotic resistance.