After immuno-oncology, mRNA is fast becoming a hot area in China as a flurry of biotechs from I-Mab to Kangtai partner with a little-known developer.

Additional Chinese coronavirus vaccine makers are now building up capacity, with Beijing-based AIM Vaccine preparing for a 400 million dose per year production capability for mRNA vaccines, while Chengdu-based Clover is to supply up to 414 million doses of its vaccines to GAVI.

Public Company Edition: Eight drug developers launched initial public offerings in the US that grossed $1.46bn combined during the week of 14 to 18 June as biotechnology stock values increased. Also, C4 Therapeutics led recent follow-on offerings, raising $180.8m. 

Private Company Edition: More $100m-plus mega-rounds means another billion-dollar week for venture capital deals, including financings for G2 Bio, Hummingbird and Numab. Also, BioTheryX brings in $92m, Vedere launches with $77m and Eliem raises $60m two months after launching with $80m.