Fierce Biotech

1. Thwarting coronaviruses by preventing them from copying themselves

   Scientists at the University of Lubeck are targeting a protein-cutting enzyme that many viruses, including the coronavirus COVID-19, need to replicate. They developed a molecule that in cell studies shows potential in blocking coronaviruses, including COVID-19, they reported, and they're planning to move to animal trials soon.

2. Sage rethinks SAGE-217 program after phase 3 failure

   Sage Therapeutics has suspended enrollment in two clinical trials of its depression drug in response to the failure of a phase 3 study. The action is intended to give Sage time to talk to the FDA and weigh potential amendments to the two paused phase 3 trials.

3. Spark's CMO set to leave as post-Roche takeover exits continue

   Spark Therapeutics’ chief medical officer Kathy Reape is set to leave the biotech. Reape is one of the senior Spark staffers hitting the exit in the aftermath of Roche’s $4.3 billion takeover. 

4. Eloxx cuts staff, CEO and shakes up leadership team

   As Eloxx looks to posts full data from its midstage cystic fibrosis test in the coming months, it has swung the ax on its staffers and hired a new chief executive.

5. Nouscom interim CEO becomes full-time as Amal exec becomes CMO

   Nouscom has finally got its permanent CEO as it also nabs a new chief medical officer out of Amal Therapeutics.