Novartis is paying $2B upfront - plus up to $1B in milestones - to acquire SNV4818, an early-stage drug targeting a common mutation found in roughly 40% of HR+/HER2- breast cancer patients. The appeal: it's designed to be better tolerated than older drugs in its class, opening the door to wider use and combination with existing treatments.
"While mutated PI3Kα is a well‑established driver in HR+/HER2‑ breast cancer, there remains a challenge in achieving effective pathway inhibition with a tolerable therapeutic profile," — Shreeram Aradhye, Chief Medical Officer, Novartis
The Dutch company behind Transpara - an AI tool that has now processed over 12 million mammograms across 30+ countries - has raised $14M from backers Insight Partners and Siemens Healthineers, plus $2M in research grants. The money goes toward expanding its clinical work and pushing further into new markets. It's a steady vote of confidence from two investors who've been with the company for a while.
“This investment endorses our strategy and our sharedsuccess. We are well-positioned to scale globally and accelerate thedevelopment of solutions that make care personal and powerful. Our goal is tosupport clinicians and women across the full continuum of breast cancer care.” — Pieter Kroese, CEO, ScreenPoint Medical
Esco has acquired Allwin Medical Devices, a California-based manufacturer of consumables used in IVF clinics, with operations also in Mumbai and Surat. No price tag was disclosed. Allwin will become the India headquarters for Esco's Medical business, giving it a stronger foothold in one of the world's fastest-growing healthcare markets. The deal is part of Esco's broader push to offer fertility clinics a one-stop shop - from equipment and consumables through to AI-assisted embryo assessment.
“The integration of Allwin Medical with Esco Lifesciences Group represents a strategic milestone in Allwin Medical’s evolution and long-term growth trajectory. This collaboration reflects a strong alignment in vision, capabilities, and commitment to the ART/IVF sector.” — Dhiren Mehta, Founder, Allwin Medical
Medicines360 and Pharma Dynamics have launched Avibela in South Africa - the country's first generic levonorgestrel IUD, offering over 99% contraceptive effectiveness for up to six years. Beyond contraception, it also treats heavy menstrual bleeding. It's a meaningful access win for a continent where long-acting contraception has historically been out of reach for many.
“While IUDs are among the most cost‑effective methods over time, the initial expense has placed them out of reach for many women. By introducing an affordable, clinically equivalent generic IUD, we’re helping remove a long‑standing barrier to access -- so more women can consider the hormonal IUD for contraception and/or treatment of HMB.” — Ingrid Singels, Associate Director, Scientific Division, Pharma Dynamics
🔗 https://firstwordpharma.com/story/7204165l
The Korean Women Entrepreneurs Association, backed by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, is selecting 25 femtech companies for funding and support this year. Five companies with more advanced technology can receive up to 80 million won each, while 20 earlier-stage startups can get up to 30 million won. On top of the cash, selected companies get mentoring, investor introductions and exhibition opportunities - with direct investment possible for the strongest performers.
🔗 https://biz.chosun.com/en/en-industry/2026/04/16/IWYDMOLWU5CM3OSYR6UW74PYEM/
