• MiRagen Therapeutics Inc., of Boulder, Colo., published preclinical data showing microRNA-15 is upregulated in response to ischemic damage and contributes to cardiovascular disease. The research confirms that targeting microRNA-15 can spare cardiomyocytes from death during a heart attack. The data were published in Circulation Research.

• XTL Biopharmaceuticals Ltd., of Herzeliya, Israel, agreed to acquire the NiCure technology for treating cartilage-related diseases from Mor Research Applications, the technology transfer office of Clalit Health Services. Under the terms, XTL will obtain a license to use the entire technology and intellectual property in return for royalties on sales and milestone payments through the development process.