One of the top scientists ousted by Novartis following a scandal over data manipulation has denied any wrongdoing and plans to "defend his conduct accordingly," according to STAT.
The top researcher, Brian Kaspar, PhD, was let go from the company along with his brother Allan Kaspar, PhD, in May 2019. The brothers were both leading scientists at AveXis, the gene therapy unit of Novartis wrapped in a scandal over manipulated data in the Zolgensma application.
The drugmaker came under fire for its decision to delay informing the FDA about the erroneous data in its Zolgensma application until after it secured approval for the gene therapy that treats spinal muscular atrophy.
Dr. Brian Kaspar is defending his leadership and the approved gene therapy.
In a statement to STAT, Dr. Brian Kaspar said he "stands proudly behind the safety and efficacy of the drug."
Access the full report here.