GEN Magazine
At the start of a new year, we try to array our memories and our hopes for the future in one progressive sequence. But this year, there is no sequence. The past is COVID-19. The future is COVID-19. Where, then, should we look if we are to perceive change—or better yet, imagine the change we desire? At GEN, we look to biotechnology. For example, in our January issue, we present an article by William A. Haseltine, a giant of biotechnology who believes that we can beat COVID-19 if, in addition to priming the adaptive immune system with vaccines, we bolster the innate immune system with combination antiviral drugs. Future opportunities are also highlighted by our own Alex Philippidis, who contributes an A-List entitled, “Seven Biopharma Trends to Watch in 2022.” In addition, feature articles report on progress in cancer research, gene editing, and AI-guided drug development. Finally, industry experts share their outlooks for spatial genomics, microbiome drugs, and continuous bioprocessing.