The Securities and Exchange Commission is mulling a rule change that would allow biotechnology firms more flexibility to invest, so they can better advance research and development - and in Washington, the industry push is on for a somewhat more extensive change. (BioWorld Financial Watch)

Almost as if to provide a metaphor for HIV treatment strategy - drug combination is the weapon of choice for fighting the infection - two major players said last week they plan to join forces in a $464 million merger whereby Gilead Sciences Inc. will acquire Triangle Pharmaceuticals Inc. (BioWorld Financial Watch)