MSU Names Chad Cotti Interim Director of AgBio Research

Michigan State University has named Chad Cotti interim director of MSU AgBioResearch, which supports research and innovation across agriculture, food systems, natural resources and related life sciences fields. In his new role, Cotti will help guide the organization’s research priorities and support collaborations that advance scientific discovery and address challenges facing Michigan’s agricultural and bioscience industries.

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FEDERAL UPDATE

FDA’s New Rare Disease Framework Could Change the Path to Approval

With only about 5% of recognized rare diseases having an FDA-approved treatment, a new FDA initiative aims to address longstanding challenges in rare disease drug development. The proposed framework could bring greater flexibility, predictability, and patient involvement to the regulatory process, potentially opening new opportunities for emerging biotech companies. Learn what the initiative could mean for researchers, developers, and patients—and how Michigan’s life sciences community can help shape its future.

STATE UPDATE

Michigan Has the Assets—But What Will it Take to Compete?

Michigan has the research institutions, industry expertise, and innovation infrastructure to be a national leader in life sciences, but maintaining a competitive edge requires a clear vision for the future. MichBio is calling on industry stakeholders to help identify the challenges, opportunities, and priorities that will shape the state’s next chapter. Learn why your perspective matters and how you can help strengthen Michigan’s position as a destination for life sciences innovation, investment, and growth.

Packaging Compliance Labs Expands Pharmaceutical Testing Capabilities

Packaging Compliance Labs (PCL) is expanding its pharmaceutical testing capabilities with the addition of three state-of-the-art Instron testing systems at its new pharmaceutical laboratory. The investment enhances PCL’s ability to provide mechanical and functional testing for autoinjectors, prefilled syringes and sterile hypodermic needles, helping pharmaceutical and drug delivery manufacturers bring innovative products to market more efficiently.

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TrialAssure Highlights FDA’s Expanding Clinical Trial Transparency Plans

TrialAssure is helping pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies prepare for evolving clinical trial transparency requirements as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) plans to expand public access to clinical study reports and explore broader clinical data disclosure. With the FDA looking to align more closely with European transparency practices, TrialAssure highlights the importance of consistent document redaction and anonymization strategies to protect patient privacy and confidential information while meeting regulatory requirements.

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Genentech Receives FDA Approval for Expanded Colon Cancer Treatment

Genentech has announced FDA approval of an expanded indication for its anti–PD-L1 immunotherapy in combination with chemotherapy for the adjuvant treatment of adults and children ages 2 and older with Stage III mismatch repair-deficient (dMMR) colon cancer. The approval provides an additional treatment option for patients with this specific form of colon cancer, marking an important advancement in precision oncology and cancer care.

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Wayne State University Named Finalist for National Innovation and Economic Prosperity Award

Wayne State University has been named a finalist for the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities’ (APLU) 2026 Innovation and Economic Prosperity Awards. The national recognition highlights the university’s commitment to advancing innovation, strengthening industry partnerships and supporting economic development through research, entrepreneurship and community engagement. The selection underscores Wayne State’s role in translating academic expertise into meaningful economic opportunities for Detroit and Michigan.

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