Key Developments

On 16 January 2024, The UK and the US have launched a Strategic Dialogue on Biological Security to address growing biological threats. This partnership, building on The Atlantic Declaration, aims to enhance collaboration in research, bio-surveillance, innovation, and countermeasures against biological risks.
Governor Kathy Hochul, first female Governor of New York State. has initiated the third round of applications for New York's US$40 million Biodefense Commercialization Fund. This fund aims to speed up the development and commercialization of life science innovations addressing infectious disease threats, while fostering job creation and growth in New York's life science sector. Since its launch in September 2021, Empire State Development has granted US$25.3 million to 11 start-ups and 13 academic institutions working on diagnostics, vaccines, therapeutics, and other solutions against infectious diseases.
In June 2022, Emergent BioSolutions Inc. revealed that the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has accepted the Biologics License Application (BLA) for AV7909 (Anthrax Vaccine Adsorbed, Adjuvanted) for review.
In May 2022, Emergent BioSolutions Inc. also announced its definitive agreement with Chimerix, Inc. to acquire exclusive worldwide rights to TEMBEXA (brincidofovir), the first antiviral approved by the FDA for treating smallpox across all age groups.
In February 2022, Appili Therapeutics Inc. unveiled funding exceeding $10 million to progress its biodefense vaccine candidate, ATI-1701, aimed at preventing Francisella tularensis infection. This financial support is anticipated to enhance the company's visibility and stimulate expansion within the Biodefense Market.