Zydus has established proof of concept for ZYIL1, a NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitor to treat cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes, via Phase II trials in Australia. Will the oral drug have an upper hand over injectables like Novartis’ Ilaris?

Totals for aggregate deals and in the M&A, alliance and divestment categories were similar among the 10 busiest deal makers from 2020 to 2021, but COVID-19 may have driven a more hectic deal-making pace overall in 2020.

Colorado-based Bolder recently announced the global launch of the CoolSeal vessel sealing platform, which will complement Hologic’s obstetrical/gynecological surgery product line.

A new UK company, Poolbeg Pharma, has been set up to develop new anti-infectives in an efficient manner, and already has a repositioned MAP kinase inhibitor for the treatment of severe influenza ready for Phase II studies.