ALSO NOTED: Merck boosts stake in Schering; Lipitor studied for ALS; and much more...

> Merck KGaA has boosted its stake in Schering to more than 10 percent, raising speculation about its possible impact on the planned merger of Bayer and Schering. Report (WSJ sub. req.)

> Lipitor's ability to regulate immune systems has given hope to researchers who believe the cholesterol drug may be an effective weapon in the fights against ALS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or Lou Gehrig's disease, as it is best known as. Report

> Hana Biosciences has won orphan drug status for its experimental brain tumor drug Ropidoxuridine. Report

> Millennium Pharmaceuticals has asked the FDA for approval to expand the use of Velcade to include patients with mantle cell lymphoma. Report

> The FDA has approved Merck/Schering-Plough Pharmaceuticals expanded use of the cholesterol drug Zetia. Report

> Trophos plans to launch a Phase II trial for a diabetic neuropathic pain therapy following successful preclinical studies. Release

> Novartis has received FDA approval for two new doses of the antihypertensive drug Lotrel. Report

And Finally… In an editorial, The New York Times cheers on scientists engaged in new embryonic stem cell cloning efforts, despite attempts by the Bush administration to restrict research in the field. Editorial