Vinay Prasad to run key FDA division that oversees vaccines

Vinay Prasad, a well-known academic and vocal critic of the medical mainstream, has been appointed as the new director of the FDA center responsible for regulating vaccines, gene therapies, and the blood supply. With a background as an epidemiology professor at the University of California, San Francisco, Prasad has not shied away from criticizing the FDA and its Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, the unit he will now lead.

The news of Prasad’s appointment sent shockwaves through the biotech sector, with the S&P Biotech ETF experiencing a significant drop of over 6%. This reaction reflects the uncertainty and skepticism surrounding Prasad’s appointment, given his history of challenging established medical practices and regulatory bodies.

FDA Commissioner Marty Makary officially announced Prasad’s hiring in a Tuesday email to staff, later confirming it on the social media platform X. Prasad will be stepping into the shoes of former CBER director Peter Marks, who resigned under pressure from health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. earlier this year.

Prasad’s appointment comes at a critical time for the FDA, as the agency grapples with issues related to vaccine safety, gene therapy regulations, and ensuring a safe blood supply. His appointment signals a potential shift in the agency’s approach to these critical areas of public health.

As a subscriber-exclusive story, more details about Prasad’s background, his past criticisms of the FDA, and the implications of his appointment can be accessed by subscribing to STAT+. This exclusive content provides in-depth analysis and coverage of the biotech sector, shedding light on the impact of Prasad’s new role at the FDA.

In conclusion, Vinay Prasad’s appointment as the new director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research marks a significant development in the regulation of vaccines, gene therapies, and the blood supply. His reputation as a vocal critic of the medical establishment adds a layer of complexity to his new role, raising questions about the future direction of the FDA under his leadership. Stay tuned for more updates and insights on this evolving story by subscribing to STAT+.