Pharma

Recent developments

Oncology pipeline shifts

In oncology, Roche’s divarasib in the phase III Krascendo 1 study demonstrated PFS and OS gains over first‑generation KRAS G12C inhibitors. Regulatory moves included EU approval of KEYTRUDA plus Padcev in cisplatin‑ineligible resectable MIBC, an sBLA for subcutaneous Lunsumio VELO plus Polivy, a CHMP recommendation for TECVAYLI plus daratumumab, a CHMP positive opinion for Jaypirca in CLL, and PFS benefit in the EPCORE DLBCL‑4 trial.

Immunology and rare diseases

Beyond oncology, Merck reported ATLAS‑UC induction success for tulisokibart; Roche received FDA Priority Review for Enspryng in thyroid eye disease; Novo Nordisk outlined ISTH 2026 data for denecimig and concizumab; the MEMBRANE randomized controlled trial supported TRUFILL n‑BCA in chronic subdural hematoma. Japan advanced access via MHLW approvals for XEOMIN, Rituxan in adult‑onset nephrotic syndrome, and Avastin for neurofibromatosis type 2, alongside Chugai’s NDA for sparsentan.

Manufacturing and quality

Manufacturing and quality capacity expanded with AGC Biologics’ partnership with Pyramid Pharma Services for US drug product, ANVISA GMP certification for MFG2, DP1 and DPPC enabling anti‑PD‑L1 supply, and the Suzhou Biosafety Testing Center’s fourth EMA GMP certificate. Engineering and CM footprints shifted via SPIE’s acquisition of nimeg ag, Evonik selling selected Hanau pharmaceutical‑ingredient assets to ProChem, and deployment of the FO–MD system at Peptistar for peptide and oligo APIs.

Materials and strategic deals

Materials and supply chains saw EIB financing for the Advanced Thorium Extraction Facility to secure lead‑212 precursors, Ecovyst’s acquisition of the Calabrian sulfur dioxide business for broader sulfur derivatives, and Dow’s $100 million specialty silicones investments serving health care. Strategic pipelines were reinforced by Lilly’s acquisition of Centessa Pharmaceuticals and a tender offer for Nuvalent at $124 per share.