Two FDA advisory panels will come together Sept. 9 to consider the latest evidence supporting computed tomography colonography as a general screening tool for colorectal cancer. The technique has been touted as a less invasive option to traditional colonoscopy, but its use has been strongly questioned due to risks from radiation exposure and false positives.

Advances in imaging and interventional endoscopy are improving cancer detection and enabling less invasive approaches to diagnose and treat disorders in the gastrointestinal tract. These emerging procedures are poised to fuel growth in the $7 billion global market for GI endoscopy.

Public Company Edition: Lixte’s small uplisting was the only biopharma initial public offering in the US during Thanksgiving week, but IPOs are ramping up again. Also, LifeSci launched its second SPAC and in follow-on offerings Reata brought in $281m and Intellia grossed $175m.