Accelerating MCM Development Panel at #BIO2026
I sat in on the "Driving Innovation for Preparedness: Accelerating MCM Development" panel at BIO 2026, moderated by Vic Suarez (BluZone Bio) with panelists Maryann Edwards (Dept. of War, ODASD-CBRND), Jen Dabisch (CBRN Defense Program), and Chris Houchens (BARDA/ASPR, HHS).
Here are some of the highlights for MCM companies from my perspective:
1. NAMs are definitely a priority for the US Government. BARDA currently has roughly 10 different New Approach Methodology (NAM) / microphysiological systems (MPS) technologies in active development, and the Department of War is co-developing complementary tools with an eye toward integrating them. Both agencies were explicit that reducing animal use under the Animal Rule is now a stated portfolio priority, not just a talking point tied to legislative pressure. If your technology touches NAMs, MPS, or alternative safety/efficacy data generation, this is a live conversation to have with program managers now.
2. AI/ML is being operationalized for MCM development with key national laboratories. The Department of War's new "Digital Biosecurity Forge" initiative — a public-private partnership with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, DOE labs, HHS, and academic/industry partners — is using AI/ML and high-performance computing to accelerate MCM development and bio-surveillance, with the explicit goal of helping technologies advance faster through the pipeline.
3. A private capital bridge for late-stage development may be coming. This was the most interesting moment of the session. Under the Department of War's RAPID program, the model appears to be: government funds Phase 1 and early Phase 2, building out a tiered "data warehouse" of candidates with safety data and CMC work in hand — and then private capital (VC/PE) steps in to bridge late Phase 2 through Phase 3, the most expensive and highest-attrition stretch of development. DoW wouldn't confirm specifics on the record, but didn't shut the door on it either. If this materializes, it could meaningfully change how dual-use and CBRN-focused companies think about a financing strategy beyond Phase Two.
#BIO2026 #MedicalCountermeasures #CBRN #BARDA #Biodefense #NAMs #GovCon
