Life Sciences Weekly Podcast – Episode 2
Recorded: May 10, 2025

This week on Life Sciences Weekly, host Matt Davison breaks down a whirlwind of developments shaping the biotech, pharma, and medtech landscape. Tune in for a market recap as volatility rocks the sector, with biotech stocks tumbling after Dr. Vinay Prasad is named the new head of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER). Discover why Prasad’s evidence-driven, no-nonsense approach to drug approvals is sending shockwaves through the industry-and what it could mean for gene therapy and vaccine developers.

Get the latest on FDA approvals, including new clearances for AI-powered imaging, at-home cancer screening, and rare disease treatments. Matt covers the FDA’s evolving regulatory pathways, missed approval deadlines amid HHS restructuring, and a notable slowdown in enforcement actions.

In funding news, hear about major venture rounds, strategic investments, and academic-industry partnerships fueling the next wave of innovation-even as IPO windows remain tight. Plus, get a snapshot of Q1’s M&A and licensing trends across medtech and biopharma.

The episode’s Industry Spotlight examines the intersection of regulatory change and unprecedented U.S. investment, with Gilead, AstraZeneca, Novartis, AbbVie, and others pouring billions into domestic R&D and manufacturing. As the FDA tightens its standards and the political climate shifts, find out how life sciences leaders are doubling down on American infrastructure and innovation.

Don’t miss this comprehensive roundup of the week’s top stories, market moves, and the forces shaping the future of life sciences. Subscribe now for your essential industry briefing!

With your Life Sciences Industry Guide, Matt Davison

Life Sciences Weekly delivers a fast-paced, insightful roundup of the latest trends, deals, and regulatory news shaping the global life sciences and medical device industries. In this inaugural episode, recorded May 3, 2025, we break down the week’s market movers, highlighting gains in biotech and medtech stocks and renewed investor confidence.

Dive deep into the latest regulatory updates, including FDA approvals for breakthrough drugs, devices, and gene therapies, as well as significant changes under new FDA Commissioner Dr. Martin Makary-who’s championing modernization, AI integration, and a shift away from animal testing. We spotlight key 510(k), NDA, IND, and BLA approvals, and discuss the FDA’s recent enforcement actions against several drug manufacturers.

Stay ahead of the curve with our comprehensive funding and startup segment, featuring major Series A, B, and C rounds from innovators in digital health, diagnostics, neurostimulation, cell therapy and more. We also cover the latest in mergers and acquisitions, as industry giants and nimble startups alike reshape the sector through strategic deals.

Whether you’re an investor, entrepreneur, clinician, or industry insider, Life Sciences Weekly is your go-to source for the essential news and analysis driving healthcare innovation in 2025.

With your Life Sciences Industry Guide, Matt Davison