Vedanta Biosciences confirmed a significant headcount reduction to preserve capital and focus on advancing VE303, its eight‑strain live bacterial consortium for preventing recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection. The company said it will prioritize the phase‑3 program supported by phase‑2 efficacy signals and intends to complete the pivotal trial by mid‑2027, subject to enrollment and funding. Vedanta cited prior setbacks, including a failed phase‑2 in Enterobacteriaceae and earlier layoffs, and said the workforce reduction was necessary to maintain progress on the lead asset. The move mirrors sector dynamics where microbiome firms reprioritize around single, late‑stage candidates to extend runway. Vedanta’s strategy seeks to emulate the pathway set by earlier microbiome approvals and to attract new capital or partnerships to support commercialization if phase‑3 data replicate earlier efficacy. Source: Fierce coverage and company statements.