Scientists at Temple University and Harvard University have shown that neurons in the eye can be protected from the consequences of injury by manipulating unfolded protein response (UPR) pathways. Read More
• InterMune Inc., of Brisbane, Calif., reported fourth-quarter product revenue totaling $7.8 million, consisting of $2.7 million for sales of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis drug Esbriet (pirfenidone) in Europe. The drug was launched in Germany last year and, as of Jan. 5, about 612 patients had been prescribed Esbriet. Read More
• Synageva BioPharma Corp., of Lexington, Mass., reported results from a four-week Phase I/II study of enzyme replacement candidate SBC-102 in adults with late onset lysosomal acid lipase (LAL) deficiency, showing the drug was well tolerated, with no serious adverse events or infusion-related reactions. Read More
• NeurogesX Inc., of San Mateo, Calif., said the FDA's Anesthetic and Analgesic Drug Products Advisory Committee did not recommend approval of Qutenza (capsaicin 8 percent patch) for management of neuropathic pain related to HIV-associated peripheral neuropathy. Read More
With lead drug linaclotide under FDA review for irritable bowel syndrome and chronic constipation, Ironwood Pharmaceuticals Inc. added $79.2 million to its coffers. Read More
The breakup of a $1.38 billion stem cell partnership between Genzyme Corp. and Osiris Therapeutics Inc., dating to 2008, was heralded by an offhand mention in a Sanofi SA post-Genzyme-acquisition pipeline update, sending the biotech's shares down 15 percent Thursday. Read More
Researchers identified a drug which, in animals, rapidly decreases both plaque area and soluble amyloid beta levels in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease. And it's FDA-approved. Read More
WASHINGTON – While the package of draft guidances the FDA released last week on biosimilars held no surprises, it also was light on the specifics needed to produce predictability in the new pathway. Read More
LONDON – Vernalis plc has taken the decisive step in casting off its biotech roots, announcing a £65.9 million (US$103.8 million) fundraising that will enable it to enter the U.S. prescription drug market and also catapults the company's market capitalization from £20 million to £100 million. Read More
