Biotech execs push for Rick Pazdur as FDA chief while Takeda announces 4,500 layoffs

Hundreds of biotechnology executives, investors and patient advocates have signed a petition urging President Trump to nominate Rick Pazdur as the next FDA commissioner.

Pazdur, a longtime FDA veteran and cancer drug reviewer, is praised by supporters for his credibility and rigor, and they argue his appointment would restore confidence in the agency.

Takeda Pharmaceutical announced it will lay off 4,500 employees as part of a restructuring plan aimed at cutting $1.3 billion in annual costs by 2028.

The job cuts are part of Takeda's ongoing effort to streamline operations and improve financial performance.

Alumis also disclosed that it is abandoning development of a previously highlighted immune drug, though details were limited.