Destiny Pharma's XF-73 achieved an "exceptionally high" 99.5% reduction in Staphylococcus aureus bacterial nasal carriage in a mid-stage trial, a result that should attract a number of potential partners for the UK firm.

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.

Companies in talks with EU authorities for the supply of at least 200 million initial doses of their mRNA vaccine. Plus, other new partnerships around the world and an India pause for AstraZeneca's contender in line with global decision.

The SPOR-COV prophylactic approach targets the innate immune system and has the potential to develop COVID-19 protection within a few days of treatment, the partners tell Scrip.