Azaya to test new nanotechnology; Proximagen gains new backer;

> We all know that one of the most valuable resources in the clinical research industry is experienced staff. Yet it is commonly accepted that a clinical monitor will only stay with a company for about three years. So what can companies do to attract and retain senior staff that will stay with the company and provide their expertise to ongoing and upcoming trials? Article

> San Antonio-based Azaya Therapeutics to test new nanotechnology from the University of Texas Health Science Center on humans. Report

> After a two-year search for a promising compound, Upsher-Smith Laboratories has taken a 7.1 percent stake in the UK's Proximagen Neuroscience, which is developing a compound for Parkinson's. Report

> The FDA has assigned a priority review process for GTC Biotherapeutics BLA for ATryn, a recombinant anti-thrombin product. Report

> BioMS Medical says that the FDA has granted fast track designation for its lead drug, dirucotide (MBP8298), for secondary progressive MS. Release

> Human Genome Sciences has struck a deal with Hospira for manufacturing process development and commercial supply of select Hospira biopharmaceutical products. Release

> The controversial HPV vaccine has been making only slow progress in the U.S. Despite the fact that half of all girls are exposed to the virus--and 4,000 die each year from the cancer that it triggers--only about twenty percent of the target population has been vaccinated. Report

> In a bid to capture its share of the pandemic-prepping market, GlaxoSmithKline has launched a program to help businesses stockpile its anti-flu drug Relenza. Report

> Tokyo-based Astellas Pharma, facing the expiration of its Flomax drug patent, is offering early retirement and "voluntary termination" to its 200-strong workforce in Norman, Oklahoma. Report

> Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health looked closely to see if the measles vaccine could trigger autism - and found nothing. "We are confident that there is no link between [the measles vaccine] and autism," said Ian Lipkin, lead study author. Report

> Bristol-Myers Squibb is getting out of the transportation business. It's planning to shut down its aviation operation in Ewing, NJ, selling its four private aircraft and laying off 32 pilots and other air transportation employees. Report

And Finally... How is pharma like the movie biz? They both need blockbusters. Some may say that chasing after the mega-hit no longer works--that satisfying niche markets can be just as profitable--but the Harvard Business Review begs to differ. Report