News

Algeta and Genzyme to research conjugated antibodies

Country
Norway

Algeta ASA and Genzyme Corp (Sanofi-Aventis) have announced plans to jointly explore the use of the Norwegian company’s radiopharmaceutical platform to enhance the ability of a Genzyme monoclonal antibody to target and kill cancer.

UK’s Acacia Pharma raises $10 million

Country
United Kingdom

Acacia Pharma Ltd, which specialises in drugs for cancer supportive care, has raised $10 million in a Series A financing round supported by the new investor, Lundbeckfond Ventures. Gilde Healthcare also participated in the round.

Merck Serono and Newron broaden CNS collaboration

Country
Switzerland

Newron Pharmaceuticals SpA has reached a licensing agreement with Merck Serono to investigate the potential of two Merck clinical-stage compounds for disorders of the central nervous system. Financial terms weren’t disclosed.

Amgen lung cancer trial fails to meet primary endpoint

Country
United States

A Phase-3 study of motesanib, a small molecule antagonist of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptors, failed to meet its primary endpoint of improving the overall survival for patients with advanced, non-squamous, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the sponsor said.

FDA approves new melanoma drug

Country
United States

The US Food and Drug Administration has approved a new monoclonal antibody, Yervoy (ipilimumab), to treat patients with late-stage melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer. The antibody is manufactured by Bristol-Myers Squibb Inc.

Paion reports higher revenue, narrower loss in 2010

Country
Germany

Paion AG more than doubled its revenue in 2010 as a result of milestone payments from three partners relating to progress in the development of desmoteplase for stroke; remimazolam for sedation and glial growth factor 2 (GGF2) for heart failure.

Evotec reports first annual profit in 18 years

Country
Germany

Evotec AG reported both operating and net profits for 2010, the first time in the company’s 18-year history, as it started to reap the rewards of a strategic shift towards drug discovery alliances with other companies instead of solo development.

GSK withdraws regulatory applications for dutasteride

Country
United Kingdom

GlaxoSmithKline Plc said it is withdrawing its regulatory applications for dutasteride (Avodart) which was being investigated to reduce the risk of prostate cancer in men at an increased risk of the disease.