The diagnostics industry could benefit from a greater focus on real-world evidence linked to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to experts from the US FDA and industry.

As China tightens its grip over clinical research using human genetic data in the country, and the US increases scrutiny over the use of personal data, multinational drug developers may face a difficult choice or even create separate entities to cater to local regulatory requirements. WuXi NextCODE provides one interesting case study. 

Merck pays undisclosed upfront fees and promises up to $500m for milestones under licensing and collaboration agreement. Meanwhile, Tetraphase and Xerava are being acquired by La Jolla, after previous bids by Melinta and AcelRx.

Public Company Edition: Legend Biotech raised $424m in its US public market debut. Also, Pfizer commits up to $500m for equity investments and Allogene capitalizes on ASCO with a $550m offering.