Xtalks Life Science Podcast

FDA Approves Immunotherapies for Multiple Myeloma and Liver Cancer

In this episode, Ayesha discussed the FDA approval of two new immunotherapies, including Janssen/Johnson & Johnson’s bispecific antibody Tecvayli for the treatment of relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma. The drug is the first bispecific T cell antibody to be approved in the US. It is indicated as a fifth line treatment for multiple myeloma patients who have received four or more prior treatments. Find out more about the bispecific antibody and about trials evaluating it in combination with other drugs to potentially move up its treatment line.Ayesha also talked about the FDA approval of AstraZeneca’s immunotherapy Imjudo for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which is the most common type of liver cancer. The drug is indicated for use in combination with AstraZeneca’s PD-L1 inhibitor Imfinzi in adult patients with unresectable HCC. The new drug combination will be going up against Roche’s combo of Tecentriq and Avastin, which recently became the standard of care for HCC. Despite this, the Imjudo and Imfinzi approval offers another promising treatment option for HCC patients and is the first dual immunotherapy treatment regimen for this indication.Read the full articles here:Multiple Myeloma Drug Tecvayli Becomes First FDA-Approved Bispecific T Cell AntibodyAstraZeneca’s Immunotherapy Imjudo (tremelimumab) Wins FDA Approval for Liver CancerFor more life science and medical device content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage.Follow Us on Social MediaTwitter: @Xtalks Instagram: @Xtalks Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferences YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

Interview with Cystic Fibrosis and Rare Disease Patient Leader Gunnar Esiason

In this episode, Ayesha and the editorial team spoke with prominent cystic fibrosis and rare disease patient leader Gunnar Esiason to learn more about his advocacy work, including his work in clinical trials and developing patient-facing technologies. Gunnar has consulted on clinical trial development, a real-world evidence population health study and a cystic fibrosis-specific mental health and wellness screening tool. He has been the face of fundraising efforts for the Boomer Esiason Foundation, which has raised more than $160 million for the fight against cystic fibrosis since he was diagnosed with the condition in 1993. He also has a successful blog and has co-hosted and hosted podcasts, with his most recent one called The State of Health with Gunnar Esiason, which has featured sitting US senators, governors and health industry leaders. Hear more about Gunnar’s work and his passion for patient advocacy and improving rare disease clinical research in this episode of the Xtalks Life Science podcast.For more life science and medical device content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage.Follow Us on Social MediaTwitter: @Xtalks Instagram: @Xtalks Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferences YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

Elon Musk Reveals he Used Novo’s Wegovy for Weight Loss + FDA Approval of Nevro’s AI Spinal Cord Stimulation System

In this episode, Ayesha discussed Elon Musk’s recent revelation that in addition to fasting, he also used Novo Nordisk’s weight loss drug Wegovy to help him get “lean and fit.” In response to a question on Twitter, Musk disclosed that both fasting and Wegovy were his secrets to his recent weight loss. Musk is not affiliated with Novo so his endorsement of the drug came as a surprise, and is also problematic according to some. Hear more about the story in this episode.The editorial team also learned about the FDA approval of Nevro Corp’s AI-based spinal cord stimulation (SCS) system for the treatment of chronic pain. Nevro says its Senza HFX iQ system is the first and only AI-based SCS system that personalizes care by “learning from patients.” The implantable device delivers neurostimulation via the company’s proprietary high frequency pulse technology that has been evaluated in more than 90,000 patients. Read the full articles here:Elon Musk Reveals Weight Loss Injection Wegovy Helped Him Get Lean and FitNevro’s AI-Based Spinal Cord Stimulation Device for Chronic Pain Receives FDA ApprovalFor more life science and medical device content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage.Follow Us on Social MediaTwitter: @Xtalks Instagram: @Xtalks Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferences YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

Bimodal Neuromodulation for Tinnitus: Interview with Caroline Hamilton, Clinical Director of Neuromod Devices – Xtalks Life Science Podcast Ep. 81

In this episode, Ayesha and the editorial team spoke with Caroline Hamilton, Clinical Director of Neuromod Devices, a medical technology company that specializes in the design and development of neuromodulation technologies. The company is committed to addressing the clinical needs of underserved patient populations who live with chronic and debilitating conditions globally. Caroline spoke to Xtalks about Neuromod’s proprietary, patented bimodal neuromodulation technology that it is evaluating for neurological disorders. The lead application of Neuromod's technology is the Lenire device for the treatment of tinnitus, frequently referred to as “ringing in the ears.” Tinnitus is believed to impact between 10 to 15 percent of adults worldwide. Hear more about Neuromod’s Lenire device, including clinical and real-world data showing its effectiveness in improving symptoms of tinnitus.For more life science and medical device content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage.Follow Us on Social MediaTwitter: @XtalksInstagram: @XtalksFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferencesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

The Neurolenses Solution for Digital Vision Syndrome: Interview with Pierre Bertrand, CEO of Neurolens

In this episode, Ayesha and the editorial team spoke with Pierre Bertrand, CEO of vision care biotech Neurolens, developer of innovative new technology to address digital vision syndrome. The syndrome is caused by extended computer or digital device use that can result in eyestrain as well as neck and shoulder pain. Hear more about the company’s Neurolenses, which are designed to alleviate and even prevent symptoms of digital vision syndrome. Learn about the proprietary technology behind Neurolenses and recent results from clinical studies that show its effectiveness in improving eye function and comfort.For more life science and medical device content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage.Follow Us on Social MediaTwitter: @Xtalks Instagram: @Xtalks Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferences YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

FDA Approves World’s Most Expensive Gene Therapy for Rare Disease + CDC Concerned About New COVID-19 Variant

In this episode, Ayesha discussed the FDA approval of bluebird bio’s Skysona for slowing the progression of neurologic dysfunction associated with the rare neurological disorder cerebral adrenoleukodystrophy (CALD) in boys four to 17 years of age with early, active CALD. The one-time administered gene therapy has also taken the title of being the world’s most expensive drug at $3 million. Hear more about the treatment and how the high prices of gene therapies can be alarming, but reimbursement programs are designed to pick up the costs.Ayesha also talked about the emergence of a new COVID-19 variant called BF.7 that the CDC is closely watching. The new strain of the coronavirus is a subvariant of the BA.5 Omicron variant. It appears to be more transmissible than other variants and subvariants and its incidence has doubled in just two weeks according to the latest CDC data. Find out more about BF.7 including how it could drive the new anticipated wave of COVID infections this fall.Read the full articles here:Bluebird Bio’s Skysona Receives FDA Approval and Becomes World’s Most Expensive DrugCDC Expresses Concern Over New COVID-19 Variant BF.7For more life science and medical device content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage.Follow Us on Social MediaTwitter: @Xtalks Instagram: @Xtalks Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferences YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

How Air Pollution Triggers Lung Cancer + Scientists Develop Parkinson’s Test Based on Woman’s Ability to Smell It

In this episode, Ayesha shared new research about how scientists at the Francis Crick Institute and University College London have found a mechanism of action to explain how air pollution may cause lung cancer in non-smokers. The research findings revealed that people who live in polluted areas have a higher risk of lung cancer, and that particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5) can act on existing genetic mutations to trigger inflammation and the development of cancer. Hear more about the research findings in this episode.Ayesha also talked about how a woman with a unique ability to smell Parkinson’s disease has helped scientists develop a new test that may aid in the early diagnosis of the condition. The Scottish woman was able to detect something was off with her husband’s body odor more than a decade before he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Find out more about how researchers leveraged her powerful sense of smell to develop the new test.Read the full articles here:New Research Reveals How Air Pollution May Trigger Lung CancerScientists Develop Test for Parkinson’s Based on Woman’s Ability to Smell the DiseaseFor more life science and medical device content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage.Follow Us on Social MediaTwitter: @Xtalks Instagram: @Xtalks Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferences YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

FDA Approval of Sanofi’s Enzyme Replacement Drug for ASMD + Disney Actress Partners with Medtronic for Diabetes Tech Campaign

In this episode, Ayesha discussed the FDA approval of Sanofi’s enzyme replacement therapy Xenpozyme for the treatment of non-central nervous system (non-CNS) manifestations of acid sphingomyelinase deficiency (ASMD), a rare genetic lysosomal storage disease, in adults and pediatric patients. The drug is administered intravenously every two weeks and in clinical trials, demonstrated significant improvements in lung function as well as reductions in spleen and liver sizes. Hear more about the rare, fatal disease and the new drug approval for it.Ayesha also talked about Medtronic’s new partnership with former Disney star Jennifer Stone on a new ad campaign for its diabetes tech, including the smart insulin injector InPen. Hear about Jennifer’s story as a type 1 diabetes patient and how the InPen helps patients like her simplify their diabetes management. Through the ad campaign, Medtronic is hoping to increase awareness about advanced diabetes tech like the InPen. The company is also working on new connected tech to integrate its different diabetes device offerings.Read the full articles here:Sanofi’s Enzyme Replacement Therapy Xenpozyme Wins FDA Approval for Rare Disease ASMDMedtronic’s InPen Gets Backing from Disney Star Jennifer Stone in Diabetes Tech CampaignFor more life science and medical device content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage.Follow Us on Social MediaTwitter: @Xtalks Instagram: @Xtalks Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferences YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

Fitbit Introduces New Smartwatch with AFib Detection + FDA Approves Imbruvica for Pediatric Patients with cGVHD

In this episode, Ayesha discussed Fitbit’s new lineup of smartwatches that is set to release this fall, including the Sense 2 which has a sensor for the detection of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Fitbit said the Sense 2 is its most advanced health-focused smartwatch to date. The device has a sensor that can identify signs of AFib through the company’s electrocardiogram (ECG) app and photoplethysmography (PPG) algorithm. Hear more about the AFib detection feature as well as the smartwatch’s new Body Response sensor for stress management. Ayesha also discussed the FDA approval of Imbruvica (ibrutinib) for pediatric patients one year of age and older with chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD). This is the BTK inhibitor’s first approval for a pediatric indication, and the first approved liquid form of the drug. The approval addresses an unmeet need in this indication, as treatment options for cGVHD in younger children are limited. Learn more about the approval in this episode of the Xtalks Life Science Podcast.Read the full articles here:Fitbit Sense 2 Smartwatch with AFib Detection to Launch This FallImbruvica Wins Milestone Approval for Children as Young as 1 With Chronic GVHDFor more life science and medical device content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage.Follow Us on Social MediaTwitter: @Xtalks Instagram: @Xtalks Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferences YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

FDA Approval of First Rapid-Acting Oral Depression Drug + Approval of $2.8 Million Gene Therapy for Rare Blood Disorder

In this episode, Ayesha discussed the FDA approval of Axsome Therapeutics’ rapid-acting oral treatment Auvelity for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). The approval makes Auvelity the first and only rapid-acting oral medication for depression, and the first and only oral NMDA receptor antagonist approved for MDD. Hear more about the approval, including clinical trial data showing the treatment can take effect in as little as one week, and how it is the first antidepressant approved in over 60 years that has a new mechanism of action.Ayesha shared news about another significant FDA approval for a gene therapy to treat transfusion-dependent beta thalassemia. Bluebird bio was awarded the approval for its gene therapy Zynteglo (beti-cel), which is a one-time treatment for the rare blood disorder. Hear more about the therapy, some of the setbacks bluebird has had to face on the road to its approval and why the treatment has a steep price tag.Read the full articles here:Axsome’s Auvelity Wins FDA Approval as First Rapid-Acting Oral Treatment for DepressionBluebird’s $2.8M Gene Therapy Zynteglo Wins Landmark FDA Approval for Beta ThalassemiaFor more life science and medical device content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage.Follow Us on Social MediaTwitter: @Xtalks Instagram: @Xtalks Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferences YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured