August BioBullets

"Ethics are more important than laws." Wynton Marsalis

There were some big headlines over the past month in the sector, hope you enjoy catching up on a few that caught my attention.

• As technology develops at pace, who will lead the ethics of implementing AI, CRISPR, and other innovations in a multipolar, fragmented global society? Jennifer Doudna was on the team that discovered the CRISPR method, and she’s had 10 years to think through the ethics questions surrounding CRISPR, how are we going to action these challenges?

• DeepMind has mapped every existing protein existing presenting an exciting step forward for the efficiency of new drug development. However, will it really lead to better drug development outcomes.

• The age of Techbio is coming - AI enabled and resembling SAAS business’ more than drug development companies of the past.

• Andrew Forrest has confirmed his conviction for the sector backing an early stage seed fund Tenmile. It’s fantastic to see more money coming in to the sector as there is a significant lack of private risk capital in the space.

• All of the big tech companies are focussed on using their tech and data capabilities to move into the healthcare space, as an example Google has invested $1.3bn into healthcare and life sciences companies since 2020 and are currently focussed on neuroscience and getting neurological drugs to market.

• The evolution of clinical trials is both exciting, and challenging. Success for the companies delivering new solutions will require focus and resilience. (note: CB insights will email you instantly for the report and it is worth a scan)

• The week ending 19 August saw healthcare companies involved in the 3 largest raises, including Bill Gates adding to his exposure to the sector.

  Enjoy the month, Mike