Tech Titans and Pharma Giants: The Genomics Race Heats Up —Exploring the Game-Changers in Genomics, from Google to Alexion

14 September 2023   Monica Cai  monica.cai@crm.szc-group.com

Part 1: The Genomic Revolution: Illuminating Our Path Ahead

In the tapestry of human history, two entwined narratives have persistently pushed us forward. The first is our ongoing quest to reshape the external world, encompassing transformations in the natural realm and propelling us into the realms of the Internet of Things and Industry 4.0. The second narrative centers on the transformation of our very selves, most notably through medical advancements. This human-centric narrative is steering us toward the era of Human Enhancement, where genomics serves as the linchpin.

In 2003, the culmination of the Human Genome Project marked a pivotal moment. With an investment exceeding $3 billion, this monumental undertaking achieved the complete sequencing and mapping of the human genome. Fast-forward to today, and genome sequencing costs have dramatically plummeted to around $1,000. This seismic shift, driven by pioneering technologies, an explosion of genomic data, innovative business models, and a surge of entrepreneurial ventures, has instigated a profound metamorphosis in the field of genomics.

Part 2: The Expansive Genomics Market

The global genomics market, valued at USD 23.11 billion in 2020, is on the precipice of unprecedented expansion. Projections indicate a remarkable trajectory, surging from USD 27.81 billion in 2021 to an astonishing USD 94.65 billion by 2028. This meteoric rise entails a compelling compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.4% during the 2021-2028 period.

*Figure: Genomic Market Size. Source: Pitchbook

*Figure: A Mosaic of Products and Services – Insights from 2019 and Glimpses into 2027. Source: The Insight Partners

Part 3: Technological Insights Shaping Genomics

Within the global genomics landscape, technology forms the bedrock upon which innovations flourish. This arena is segmented into sequencing, microarrays, computational tools, nucleic acid extraction, purification techniques, and more. Among these, sequencing emerges as the vanguard, claiming the largest market share in 2019 and poised to maintain its pre-eminence throughout the forecasted period. The ascendancy of sequencing finds its roots in the burgeoning applications that promise precision in the treatment of a myriad of ailments.

Part 4: Alexion’s Genomic Ventures

In the dynamic landscape of genomics, one standout player is Alexion, specifically its Rare Disease division under the AstraZeneca umbrella. Alexion’s involvement exemplifies how genomics is catalysing transformative innovations in healthcare.

Example 1: Pioneering Collaborations
Alexion’s partnership with Verge Genomics, announced on September 8th, represents a pioneering four-year venture. Verge Genomics specializes in using AI to develop therapies for neurological disorders, and this partnership aims to identify new drug targets within the genomics realm. By integrating AI with genomics data, the collaboration seeks to decode the genetic intricacies of rare neurological conditions. The outcome could be ground-breaking treatments that offer hope to patients worldwide.

Example 2: Strategic Acquisition of Pfizer’s Gene Therapies
In a monumental move, Alexion has acquired Pfizer’s early-stage gene therapy portfolio for rare diseases, a deal valued at $1 billion. This strategic acquisition bolsters Alexion’s position as a leader in genomic medicine. It grants access to Pfizer’s preclinical gene therapy assets and technologies, amplifying Alexion’s capacity to develop innovative treatments for rare diseases. This acquisition underscores Alexion’s commitment to harnessing genomics to address unmet medical needs.

Conclusion:
At its essence, genomics is the illumination of the human body’s innermost workings, a quest to minimize uncertainty, and a relentless drive to prevent and treat diseases with unwavering precision. The $1 billion agreement inked between Alexion and Pfizer’s Rare Disease division is a testament to the ever-evolving genomics landscape, poised to redefine the contours of medicine and healthcare.

As we navigate the future, genomics will remain our guiding star, unveiling the secrets encrypted within our genes and offering innovative solutions to humanity’s most formidable health challenges. The genomic odyssey has only just begun, and its promises shimmer brightly on the horizon, destined to shape the future of humanity in profound ways.

References:
● Genomics Market Size – Pitchbook: https://my.pitchbook.com/market-size-estimates/491728
● Genomics Market Size – The Insight Partners: https://www.theinsightpartners.com/reports/genomics-market/#:~:text=The%20genomics%20market%20is%20projected%20to%20reach%20US%24,grow%20at%20a%20CAGR%20of%2013.1%25%20during%202020%E2%80%932027.
● AstraZeneca’s rare disease unit partners with Verge Genomics in deal worth over $840m: https://www.pmlive.com/pharma_news/astrazenecas_rare_disease_unit_partners_with_verge_genomics_in_deal_worth_over_$840m_1499509
● Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, enters agreement with Pfizer to acquire a portfolio of preclinical rare disease gene therapies:
https://www.astrazeneca.com/media-centre/press-releases/2023/alexion-enters-gene-therapy-agreement-with-pfizer.html
● 18.3.1: The Human Genome Project: https://bio.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Introductory_and_General_Biology/Map%3A_Raven_Biology_12th_Edition/18%3A_Genomics/18.03%3A_Genome_Projects/18.3.01%3A_The_Human_Genome_Project