A plasmid DNA vaccine for human use has moved a step closer to reality, with Zydus Cadila applying for an accelerated nod for its COVID-19 candidate in India. 67% efficacy reported in an interim data readout and Delta variant being the prominent strain during a Phase III trial imply better odds for approval.

The Leeds, UK-based company is looking to the alternative route to the US stock market to fund its live biotherapeutics platform.

GSK hopes the San Francisco biotech’s technology can help its cell therapy pipeline address solid tumors. Avacta partners with ADC on antibody-drug conjugates.

There is growing interest in the gut microbiome as a source of new therapies across a wide range of diseases. Although it is still an emerging field, pharmaceutical firms and other investors are engaging, with more expected to follow.