Genzyme Corp., of Cambridge, Mass., has changed the name of itsin vitro diagnostic maker, Virotech System-Dianostika GmbH, toGenzyme Virotech GmbH, of Ruesselsheim, Germany. Genzymepurchased Virotech in April 1993.

Aastrom Biosciences Inc., of Ann Arbor, Mich., began clinical trialsof its Aastrom cell production system to enhance recovery of bloodand immune systems in breast cancer patients who have been treatedwith high dose chemotherapy and bone marrow transplants. Thestudy is being conducted at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center inHouston, Texas.

SangStat, of Menlo Park, Calif., began distributing Thymoglobulinin Canada under an emergency drug release program prior to gettingmarket approval. The sales are the first for the product in NorthAmerica. Thymoglobulin is a polyclonal antibody used for treatmentof organ rejection in transplant patients. The company also registeredwith the Securities and Exchange Commission to sell 1 millionshares of newly issued common stock.

Bio-Technology General Corp., of Iselin, N.J., said its human growthhormone went on the market in Sweden. The drug, under the brandname Zomacton, is being sold by the company's European partner,Sweden-based Ferring Group. Bio-Technology General, which isseeking FDA approval for the growth hormone, now markets theproduct in seven countries.

Liposome Technology Inc., of Menlo Park, Calif., and Vestar Inc., ofSan Dimas, Calif., agreed to end their European patent disputerelated to Liposome Technology's DOX-SL. Vestar filed the patentinfringement lawsuit in the United Kingdom in 1993 and LiposomeTechnology responded by suing Vestar. The companies said theyagreed to a dismissal of claims. Terms were not disclosed. LiposomeTechnology filed for European Union approval of DOX-SL forAIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma in December.

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