In a striking move toward collaborative innovation, Bristol Myers Squibb, Takeda, AbbVie, and Johnson & Johnson have joined forces through a shared data consortium to advance AI-enabled drug discovery. Their objective is to pool proprietary protein-small molecule datasets via a federated learning framework, enabling secure contributions without exposing sensitive information. This collective approach aims to dramatically accelerate lead identification and reduce failure rates in early-stage drug development.
Oral Therapy Milestone for a Rare Hormone Disorder
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved Palsonify (paltusotine) — the first once-daily oral treatment for acromegaly, a disease caused by pituitary tumors and excess growth hormone secretion. Previously, patients relied on injections or surgery; this pill option offers a more convenient alternative while maintaining control over IGF-1 levels. Analysts estimate peak annual sales could reach $1.5 billion if adoption is strong.
Antitrust Battle Over Device Components Heats Up
Behind the scenes of drug production, device component supply chains are under scrutiny. ARS Pharmaceuticals recently sued AptarGroup, accusing them of monopolizing a key rubber plunger used in ARS’s epinephrine nasal spray product. The suit alleges Aptar’s exclusionary practices raised costs and hindered competition in essential emergency medicine components.
Neuromuscular Therapy Licensing Signals Growing RNA Focus
In a major licensing deal, Novartis secured global rights to Arrowhead’s experimental RNA-based therapy ARO-SNCA, targeting neuromuscular disorders like Parkinson’s by reducing alpha-synuclein levels. The agreement could be worth up to $2 billion, underlining the industry’s continued pivot toward RNA platforms and precision molecular medicine.
Pricing Policy & Trade Shifts Reshape U.S. Pharma Landscape
Policy dynamics are shifting rapidly: the Trump administration struck a pricing deal with Pfizer to launch TrumpRx.gov, a government-driven platform for discounted drugs, in exchange for tariff relief. Simultaneously, proposed pharmaceutical tariffs up to 100% are on hold pending broader negotiations. These moves reflect mounting political pressure to reconcile drug affordability, domestic manufacturing incentives, and global trade strategy.
Sources: Industry press releases, Reuters, Financial Times
