• Bionovo Inc., of Emeryville, Calif., began enrollment in a pharmacokinetics trial to further evaluate its lead drug candidate, MF101, which is designed to treat the symptoms of menopause. The product also is being tested in Phase II trial in 217 postmenopausal women, which began in October.

• Penwest Pharmaceuticals Co., of Danbury, Conn., began a Phase I study of Nalbuphine ER, a nalbuphine hydrochloride extended-release tablet formulation being developed for pain. The trial will evaluate the safety and tolerability in 32 healthy subjects, as well as pharmacokinetics and the effect of different doses on typical opioid-related side effects. Results are expected in the third quarter.