European biotech companies are finding diverse ways of finding support and financing to propel their potential first-in-class therapies into clinical studies, including sponsorship by patient charities as well as private placements.

As Takeda prepares to report its first full quarter post-Shire next week, eyes will be on further strategic divestments and trends that could lead to a raising of guidance in Q2.

In moves aimed at boosting its presence in the immuno-oncology field, Takeda unveils a series of new research collaborations it believes will lead to pipeline gains in this critical field over the next few years.

As it moves away from virology, Gilead’s signs fibrosis collaboration with Scholar Rock. Novartis seeks to acquire CMDO that manufactures Kymriah, while Intrexon regains control of CAR-T program partnered with Merck KGAA. More deals from over the holiday period…