BMS/bluebird and Janssen/Legend have the leading BCMA-targeting CAR-T therapies for multiple myeloma but Poseida, Allogene, CARsgen, Gracell and CBMG are emerging with novel approaches. 

The development and commercialization of cell and gene therapies during a pandemic, with regulators and payers demanding more data on effect duration and safety, has resulted in headwinds. Added to manufacturing and clinical trial recruitment issues, investors’ patience has been strained.

Public Company Edition: Three companies postponed or withdrew their offerings, but drug developers continue to pursue IPOs. Also, Biocon, BMS and Epizyme raised money through new debt, Five Prime capitalized on positive data and Synthetic Biologic engaged a strategic advisor.

Private Company Edition: Also, Medicxi’s new €200m fund will be reinvested in a portfolio of six life science companies and Silverback more than doubled its 2020 money with an $85m series C round.