Base to Base biotech podcast 38: Obesity, life sciences in the Netherlands, and killing cancer cells

This week, we have conversations with Sjanna Bosma, international relations officer at Health Holland; Mark Bagnall, CEO of Phenomix; and PDS Biotechnology CEO Frank Bedu-Addo.04:17 Phenomix 32:53 Health Holland 44:02 PDS BiotechnologyPhenomix takes on obesityPhenomix Sciences is a biotechnology company focused on precision obesity medicine. The firm has developed the MyPhenome test, a saliva‑based assay that uses machine‑learning algorithms and genetic risk scores to classify obesity phenotypes and predict treatment outcomes.The company positions itself as the first commercial precision obesity medicine biotech, aiming to improve patient stratification and guide therapeutic decisions for obesity management. Its work is closely tied to the Mayo Clinic, where co‑founder Andres Acosta has led much of the underlying research.Recent studies have expanded the evidence base for MyPhenome, particularly in relation to GLP‑1 receptor agonists such as semaglutide and liraglutide. At Obesity Week 2025, Phenomix presented data showing the test’s ability to predict weight‑loss response across diverse patient populations, including those who had undergone bariatric surgery.PDS Biotechnology harnesses immune system to kill cancer cellsPDS Biotechnology is a late‑stage immunotherapy company in New Jersey. It develops novel treatments that harness the immune system to target and kill cancer cells, with its lead candidate PDS0101 designed for HPV16‑positive cancers.The company’s pipeline is based on its Versamune platform, which is intended to activate both CD4+ helper and CD8+ killer T cells to generate durable anti‑tumour responses. PDS Biotech has advanced multiple clinical programmes, with head and neck cancer as a primary focus.PDS0101 could become a new immunotherapy option for patients with HPV‑related cancers, addressing a significant unmet medical need.The Netherlands life sciences industryThe Dutch life sciences industry was represented at the Nordic Life Science Days in Gothenburg. Health Holland, the public‑private partnership that promotes the Dutch life sciences and health sector, coordinated the Dutch Lounge at the event.This brought together biotech, medtech, and contract research organizations from the Netherlands, highlighting the country’s strengths in innovation, collaboration, and international partnerships.The Netherlands has established itself as a hub for advanced therapies, biopharma, and medical technologies. At NLS Days, more than 30 Dutch companies emphasised their expertise in areas such as cell and gene therapy, diagnostics, and digital health. The event provided opportunities to showcase collaborations with Scandinavian partners and explore new avenues into the Nordic market.The Netherlands continues to develop international cooperation and attract investment into the life sciences sector and continues to position itself as a leading European life sciences hub, leveraging events like NLS Days to build visibility and connect with key stakeholders across the region.To get in touch with guest suggestions, or to sponsor or advertise on the podcast, please email [email protected]