Immuno-oncology is a key area for biological drug development and activity has exploded over the past decade. Today, IO therapies represent a third of the biologics pipeline, and antibody development remains the focus.

Scrip takes a look at the landscape of the South Korean gene and cell therapy sector, which is under the spotlight with the implementation of a new cutting-edge biologics law.

Ildong has become the latest Korean pharma firm to start developing an oral COVID-19 drug in the country, potentially competing with Merck and Pfizer’s candidates which are now under approval review locally. The latest co-development deal is also set to expand the market prospects for the antiviral's Japanese originator.

EyeGene R&D head talks to Scrip at CPhI Korea about the development of its COVID-19 vaccine candidate EG-COVID, potential challenges in clinical trials and positioning and the over-riding importance of validating a viable mRNA platform.