Digital connectivity is the future of drug delivery, according to Aptar Pharma, which recently deepened its partnering commitment with digital therapeutics software developer Propeller Health. But it stresses that value is the key, and not connectivity for its own sake.

Digital must become a core capability for pharma if it is to remain competitive. New technologies bring faster innovation cycles, but demand new kinds of expertise and partnerships that threaten traditional hierarchies and mindsets. The rewards, for pharma, are most likely to come from improved efficiency and stronger relationships with stakeholders, rather than from digital end-products.

Following the acquisition of cell therapy assets from Sanofi, which Sanofi had secured in its purchase of Genzyme, Aastrom Biosciences changed its name to Vericel, doubled down in cell therapy and relocated to Massachusetts. Since then it has seen its revenues grow 12% per year from just under $43 million in 2013 to just under $64 million in 2017. The target for 2020: drive revenues north of $100 million.

The first half of 2018 appeared promising for the European biopharma sector, with multiple large investment funds promising cash to young, innovative companies in the region – a turnaround after years of life science firms suffering from a funding drought across Europe.

Investment in advanced in vitro diagnostics is increasing as the technologies themselves are becoming less esoteric and more easily "understood" by patients and providers alike. Are these technologies finally breaking through the glass ceiling to visibly assume their rightful place in health care delivery? 

The hotly contested US market is central to Bayer’s aspirations to become a global innovation player in pharmaceuticals, especially in key growth segments like oncology. A little more than one year in, Bayer Pharmaceuticals Americas President Dr. Carsten Brunn reflects on his unit’s progress.