Novel agents in immuno-oncology headline the drug center’s upcoming goal dates, while gene therapies make up most of the biologic center’s workload.

After missing statistical significance in PD-L1+ head-and-neck cancer, Immutep presents data showing eftilagimod with Keytruda can offer efficacy in PD-L1-negative patients.

The drug maker is spending $250m to acquire privately held Celsius and its lead candidate, a monoclonal antibody targeting TREM1 in inflammatory bowel disease.

The US major's blockbuster is already well established as a treatment for Crohn’s disease but the latest thumbs-up from the US FDA means Skyrizi is the first interleukin-23 inhibitor approved for both principal types of inflammatory bowel disease.