Senior Medical Director - Clinical Development-Nephrology

Lilly's latest China drug deal; Immunovant's setback in lupus. Lilly wagered up to $3.35 billion in its fourth China-focused alliance since January 2025. Elsewhere, analysts are now more confident about one of Vertex's top prospects. Published Sept. 24, 2026 Today, a brief rundown of news involving Eli Lilly and Immunovant, as well as updates from Roche, Otsuka Pharmaceutical and Vertex Pharmaceuticals that you may have missed. Eli Lilly will spend $100 million up front, and possibly $3.25 billion more, on another alliance centered around drugs from China. Beijing-based InnoCare Pharma didn't reveal which diseases are the focus of the deal it announced Thursday with Lilly. But InnoCare's focus is cancer and autoimmune disease, and the companies said the partnership will involve compounds against up to five targets. The deal is Lilly's fourth with a China-based drugmaker since the start of 2025, following pacts with Insilico Medicine, Innovent Biologics and Haisco Pharmaceutical Group, according to BioPharma Dive data. Shares of Immunovant and majority owner Roivant both ticked down on Wednesday after Immunovant reported a study setback in lupus. Immunovant said it will stop developing its drug IMVT-1402 in cutaneous lupus erythematosus - a kind of lupus that affects the skin - after the therapy missed its mark in a proof-of-concept trial. However, Immunovant added that all other clinical timelines for IMVT-1402, which is being tested against several other autoimmune conditions, remain "on track." In a note to investors, Cantor Fitzgerald analyst Prakhar Agrawal argued that there is "no read-through to other more important indications" for Immunovant's drug, which include Graves disease and Sjögren's syndrome. A dual-acting obesity drug from Roche helped Type 2 diabetics who also have obesity or are overweight control blood sugar and drop weight in a Phase 2 trial. Patients receiving the highest dose of enicepatide, which Roche acquired in a buyout of Carmot Therapeutics, saw their HbA1c levels drop by 2.65 percentage points after 48 weeks. By that time, drug recipients on that high dose had lost an average of 15.5% of their body weight, "without a demonstrable plateau," Roche said Tuesday. Some 2% of patients stopped treatment due to side effects, versus none in the placebo group. Roche is looking to its obesity drug portfolio to boost revenue growth in the years ahead. Two late-stage trials of enicepatide are ongoing, and more are planned for next year. An RNA drug codeveloped by Otsuka Pharmaceutical and Ionis Pharmaceuticals will be submitted to regulators after it succeeded in a Phase 3 trial in people with a rare form of ALS. The drug, called ulefnersen, was tested against a placebo in people whose ALS is linked to a mutation in the "FUS" gene. Otsuka said Tuesday that ulefnersen met its main objective as well as key secondary goals, with treatment leading to statistically significant improvements on measures of function and survival over the course of 505 days. The results represented one of two late-stage study successes this week for an Ionis-partnered treatment. However, TD Cowen analyst Phil Nadeau wrote that ulefnersen's commercial value is likely "incremental' for Ionis, as some estimates suggest fewer than 200 patients in the U.S. have FUS-ALS. Ionis will get sales royalties through its collaboration with Otsuka. Vertex Pharmaceuticals released updated study results on Tuesday that some analysts viewed as an encouraging sign for one of its top prospects. Vertex is developing that drug, inaxaplin, for people with kidney disease linked to mutations in the "APOL1" gene. A late-stage study is underway, with results expected next year. Ahead of that readout, the company reported new Phase 2 data in people with type 2 diabetes or "modest" but still elevated levels of protein in the urine. Vertex disclosed a 45% reduction of urine protein in the latter group after 13 weeks, an "important" finding that "de-risk[s]" the late-stage trial and "expands the potential addressable opportunity for inaxaplin," wrote UBS Securities analyst Michael Yee. Yee added that several studies have suggested around 80% of patients with APOL1-mediated kidney disease have this modest proteinuria.

Breakthroughs, cures, and shocking truths: the medical news you can't ignore this week. Table of Contents The world of medicine is evolving at an unprecedented pace, with groundbreaking discoveries, unexpected reversals, and revelations that challenge long-held beliefs. From potential cures for devastating diseases to alarming new findings about common health practices, this week's medical news demands attention. Below, Elseadc break down the most significant developments, some inspiring, some unsettling, that could shape the future of healthcare. Groundbreaking cures and medical breakthroughs. 1. First-Ever FDA approval for a gene therapy for sickle cell disease. One of the most anticipated advancements this year is the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) approval of Casgevy, a revolutionary gene-editing therapy for sickle cell disease. Developed by Vertex Pharmaceuticals and CRISPR Therapeutics, Casgevy uses CRISPR-Cas9 technology to permanently correct the genetic mutation responsible for the disease. * How it works: The therapy modifies a patient's bone marrow stem cells to produce healthy hemoglobin, eliminating the need for lifelong blood transfusions. * Impact: This marks the first FDA-approved CRISPR-based treatment in the U.S., offering hope to thousands of patients suffering from this painful and life-threatening condition. * Future potential: Researchers are now exploring similar applications for other genetic disorders, such as beta-thalassemia. 2. A potential cure for Type 1 diabetes? Stem cell research advances. Scientists at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), in collaboration with Vertex Pharmaceuticals, have made a major leap in pancreatic cell transplantation for Type 1 diabetes. Their research involves engineering stem cells into functional insulin-producing cells that could be transplanted into patients, potentially eliminating the need for daily insulin injections. * Key finding: The team successfully grew insulin-producing cells in a lab that responded to blood sugar levels, mimicking natural pancreatic function. * Clinical trials: Early-stage trials show promising results, with some patients achieving normal blood sugar levels without insulin. * Why it matters: If scaled successfully, this could dramatically improve quality of life for millions with Type 1 diabetes. 3. A new drug shows promise in slowing Alzheimer's progression. After decades of failed trials, Eli Lilly's donanemab has emerged as the first drug to meaningfully slow Alzheimer's disease progression. In a Phase 3 clinical trial, patients treated with donanemab experienced a 35% reduction in cognitive decline over 18 months compared to a placebo. * How it works: Donanemab targets amyloid plaques in the brain, which are a hallmark of Alzheimer's, but unlike previous drugs, it also removes toxic tau proteins. * Approval status: The FDA is expected to review it in early 2024, making it a potential game-changer for millions of Alzheimer's patients. * Caution: Side effects, including brain swelling, require careful monitoring. Shocking truths and controversial findings. 1. Common painkillers may be worsening heart disease, new research suggests otherwise. For years, NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, were linked to increased heart risks. However, a large-scale study published in The Lancet challenges this belief. * Key discovery: The study found that low-dose ibuprofen (<=1,200 mg/day) does not significantly raise heart attack or stroke risks in most patients. * Exceptions: High doses and long-term use still pose risks, particularly for those with pre-existing heart conditions. * Implications: Doctors may now reassess NSAID prescriptions for chronic pain patients, though caution is still advised. A landmark study from the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) reveals that heavy social media use in teens is linked to increased depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. * Findings: * Teens who spent more than 3 hours daily on social media had double the risk of mental health issues. * Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are particularly problematic due to comparison culture, algorithm-driven anxiety, and sleep disruption. * Government response: The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is investigating whether these platforms manipulate young users for profit. * What parents should know: Encouraging screen-time limits and fostering offline social interactions may be crucial for teen mental well-being. 3. The "healthy" Habit that might be killing you: overconsumption of "clean" Eating. The clean eating movement, which promotes whole foods, organic products, and avoidance of processed ingredients, has been widely praised. However, a new study from Harvard Medical School suggests that extreme clean eating can be harmful. * Key risks: * Nutrient deficiencies: Over-restrictive diets may lack essential vitamins (e.g., B12, iron) if not properly balanced. * Digestive issues: Eliminating all processed foods can disrupt gut microbiome health. * Obsessive behaviors: Some develop orthorexia nervosa, an eating disorder centered on "healthy" food. * Better approach: Focus on balanced nutrition rather than extreme restrictions. Controversies and ethical dilemmas in medicine. 1. The rise of "designer babies": CRISPR babies and genetic engineering debates. The birth of the first genetically edited babies in 2018 sparked global outrage, but new advancements in CRISPR technology are reigniting ethical concerns. * Current developments: * Scientists in China and the U.S. are exploring CRISPR to prevent hereditary diseases (e.g., cystic fibrosis, Huntington's). * Some researchers propose editing embryos to enhance traits (e.g., intelligence, athletic ability). * Ethical concerns: * Unintended mutations: CRISPR can create off-target effects, leading to unknown long-term risks. * Inequality: Only wealthy families may afford genetic enhancements, widening health disparities. * Slippery slope: Where do Elseadc draw the line between therapy and enhancement? * Regulatory response: The WHO and U.S. NIH have tightened guidelines, but loopholes remain. 2. The opioid crisis: A new hope or just another band-aid? The U.S. opioid epidemic has killed over 500,000 people since 1999, but a new FDA-approved drug, Zuwailo (naloxone in a nasal spray), is being tested as a preventive measure for at-risk individuals. * How it works: Unlike traditional naloxone (used to reverse overdoses), Zuwailo is taken daily by people with opioid use disorder (OUD) to reduce cravings and overdose risks. * Early results: Some studies show a 30% reduction in overdose deaths among daily users. * Criticism: Experts warn that this approach may not address the root causes of addiction, such as mental health and socioeconomic factors. 3. The dark truth about vaccine hesitancy: How misinformation spreads. A new report from the World Health Organization (WHO) highlights that vaccine hesitancy is one of the top global health threats, with misinformation on social media playing a major role. * Key findings: * Anti-vaccine groups on platforms like Facebook and YouTube have grown exponentially, reaching millions. * AI-generated deepfake videos are now being used to spread false claims about vaccine safety. * Parental fears (e.g., links to autism, long-term side effects) persist despite decades of scientific debunking. * Solutions: * Better education: Doctors and public health officials must counter misinformation with clear, accessible facts. * Platform accountability: Social media companies are under pressure to remove harmful content and promote verified health sources. * Community trust: Local health leaders must rebuild confidence in vaccines through transparency. What this means for you: Key takeaways. For patients and families. * Stay informed: Medical advancements move fast, consult trusted sources (e.g., NIH, peer-reviewed journals) rather than relying on social media. * Ask questions: If considering gene therapy, stem cell treatments, or new drugs, discuss risks, benefits, and alternatives with your doctor. * Protect mental health: Limit social media exposure, especially for teens, and seek help if anxiety or depression worsens. For healthcare professionals. * Adapt to new treatments: Stay updated on FDA approvals, clinical trials, and emerging therapies to provide the best care. Administrator

CRISPR Therapeutics eyes CASGEVY growth, year-end pipeline catalysts. CRISPR Therapeutics (NASDAQ:CRSP) CEO Sam Kulkarni outlined the company's commercial and clinical priorities during a Morgan Stanley discussion, highlighting continued adoption of CASGEVY and expected data updates across several pipeline programs by the end of 2026. Kulkarni said the company's strategy rests on several layers of potential value: the commercial launch of CASGEVY, three later-stage assets that could be positioned for pivotal studies next year, early clinical programs, and research efforts in areas including in vivo cell editing. CASGEVY launch and pediatric expansion. CASGEVY, which CRISPR Therapeutics markets with Vertex Pharmaceuticals for sickle cell disease and transfusion-dependent beta thalassemia, recently received an FDA label expansion for patients ages 2 years and older. Kulkarni described the pediatric indication as a "great tailwind," citing Vertex's most recently disclosed quarterly CASGEVY revenue of approximately $76 million and more than 100 patient initiations per quarter. He said the pediatric population could support additional treatment starts because more children's hospitals have experience with the required procedures and because earlier intervention may help patients avoid disease-related organ damage. According to Kulkarni, many initial launch bottlenecks - including reimbursement processes, hospital contracting and manufacturing capacity - have largely been addressed. However, the treatment journey can still take six to nine months or longer from initiation to treatment. He said delays are not primarily related to manufacturing, but can reflect exchange transfusions before cell collection and patient scheduling needs. Kulkarni also pointed to potential gentler conditioning regimens as a future growth driver. He said a regimen that could reduce hospital stays to roughly three days or less, compared with two or three weeks, could broaden access among more moderate patients. He added that CRISPR Therapeutics is pursuing in vivo hematopoietic stem cell editing, which he said could ultimately expand treatment beyond the current markets in the U.S. and Western Europe. CTX310 data expected in severe hypertriglyceridemia. The company expects to report Phase 1b data for CTX310 in severe hypertriglyceridemia by year-end. CTX310 is designed as a one-time CRISPR-Cas9 treatment targeting ANGPTL3, a protein associated with lipid metabolism and cardiovascular risk. Kulkarni said data presented at the European Society of Cardiology meeting showed reductions of up to 80% in ANGPTL3 at higher dose levels, along with reductions of nearly 50% in LDL cholesterol and triglycerides in a mixed Phase 1a population. He said the company observed that ANGPTL3 reductions remained at approximately 80% one year after treatment in the data presented. The Phase 1b study is evaluating more defined patient populations, including severe hypertriglyceridemia, mixed dyslipidemia and refractory hypercholesterolemia. Kulkarni said the immediate focus is severe hypertriglyceridemia, where CRISPR Therapeutics aims to assess triglyceride reduction and additional biomarkers such as LDL cholesterol, hemoglobin A1C and hepatic fat fraction. He also said ANGPTL3 may be complementary to PCSK9 therapies, citing Phase 1a patients who were already receiving PCSK9 treatment and experienced additional LDL reductions. The company plans to use the Phase 1b results to discuss potential pivotal trial designs with regulators. Discover more Pharmaceuticals & Biotech Stock market summary Political analysis subscription Factor XI and autoimmune programs. CRISPR Therapeutics also expects year-end top-line Phase 2 data for CTX611, an siRNA therapy targeting Factor XI that is being developed with Sirius Therapeutics. The ongoing study is in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty and compares CTX611 with enoxaparin. Kulkarni said the program seeks to provide anticoagulation with less bleeding risk than existing direct oral anticoagulants. He said prior Phase 1 studies showed up to 95% reduction in Factor XI. The company expects the Phase 2 update to include high-level comparisons of venous thromboembolism rates between treatment arms, while more detailed bleeding information is expected later. Potential future settings discussed included secondary stroke prevention, atrial fibrillation patients unable to use direct oral anticoagulants, cancer-associated thrombosis and surgical applications. CRISPR Therapeutics is responsible for Phase 3 development and potential commercialization of CTX611, according to Kulkarni. For zugo-cel, its allogeneic CAR-T program, the company is prioritizing B-cell-driven autoimmune diseases. Kulkarni said CRISPR Therapeutics is conducting a basket trial across indications that include systemic sclerosis and myositis, with additional data expected by year-end. The company expects those results to help determine whether one or more indications could advance toward pivotal development. Earlier pipeline and technology priorities. Kulkarni said clinical data from the company's alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency program and CTX340 for refractory hypertension are expected in 2027. CTX340 targets angiotensinogen, and Kulkarni said changes in blood pressure could potentially be observed within days after gene editing. Beyond individual programs, he said CRISPR Therapeutics is working to broaden delivery beyond the liver to areas such as the hematopoietic and immune systems, kidneys, central nervous system and muscle. The company is also pursuing more advanced editing approaches, including whole-gene insertion. Discover more Stocks & Bonds Financial data services Commodities & Futures Trading Kulkarni said the company is increasingly using artificial intelligence in regulatory writing, operational activities and product design. He said AI tools are helping the company evaluate mutations, optimize editing strategies and potentially accelerate advancement of programs into the clinic. About CRISPR Therapeutics (NASDAQ:CRSP). CRISPR Therapeutics AG (NASDAQ: CRSP) is a biotechnology company focused on developing gene-editing medicines using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. The company's programs are designed to modify disease-associated genes in human cells, with the goal of treating serious conditions across hematology, oncology, autoimmune disease and regenerative medicine. Its most advanced product is Casgevy (exa-cel), an autologous cell therapy developed in collaboration with Vertex Pharmaceuticals. Casgevy uses CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to modify a patient's blood stem cells and is approved in several markets for eligible patients with sickle cell disease and transfusion-dependent beta thalassemia.