> Map Pharmaceuticals, which is developing new therapies for asthma and migraines, has filed for an $86.2 million IPO. Report
> France's NicOx announced that the NCI is halting a Phase I trial of NCX 4016 for colon cancer after tests regarding a related molecule demonstrated that it might harm DNA. NicOx says it plans more tests for the therapy and would delay a Phase II diabetes study until it had more information regarding NCX 4015. Report
> Geron has increased its stake in a joint venture entity formed with the Biotechnology Research Corporation, TA Therapeutics Limited (TAT), from 50 percent ownership to 75 percent ownership. Release
> Basilea Pharmaceutica earned a $9.8 million milestone with its submission of the superbug antibiotic ceftobiprole to the European Medicines Agency for approval. Report
> Aptuit and Laurus Labs have created a new contract drug development company, Aptuit Laurus. Report
And Finally… Economic development officials in San Francisco have been touting the rapid growth of the city's biotech sector. Report