Merck & Co. is shifting its focus from TIGIT and LAG-3 inhibitors to a subcutaneous version of Keytruda and a PD-1x/VEGF bispecific, while entering the obesity market with a preclinical GLP-1 receptor agonist from Hansoh Pharma for $112 million. Sanofi reported promising mid-stage results for its TL1A antibody duvakitug in inflammatory bowel disease, achieving significant remission rates, while Vertex Pharmaceuticals faced setbacks with its NaV1.8 inhibitor suzetrigine in chronic pain trials. Novo Nordisk completed a $16.5 billion acquisition of Catalent to address supply issues for semaglutide, despite ongoing shortages, while Novartis announced the closure of two MorphoSys sites, affecting 330 employees, following an $800 million write-down on pelabresib.
