* Abgenix Inc., of Fremont, Calif., signed a collaboration with Centocor Inc., of Malvern, Pa., under which Centocor can use Abgenix's XenoMouse technology to develop fully human antibodies to undisclosed antigen targets in the area of cardiovascular deisase. The deal includes research funding plus potential milestone payments and royalties. Further terms were not disclosed.

* Visible Genetics Inc., of Toronto, said the FDA gave an allowance under its investigational device exemption for the company to begin clinical studies of its OpenGene HIV Genotyping system. A multi-site series of validation and proficiency trials will start immediately.