This past year has presented a series of triumphs and tribulations for the world of drug development. The FDA remains in turmoil, new diseases threaten millions and the industry has had to contend with multibillion-dollar claims that at least one drug giant put profits well ahead of people. But at the same time, biotech companies like Genentech have demonstrated the best of what the brightest researchers in the field can accomplish, pushing ahead with groundbreaking late-stage research into new therapies. A once-moribund vaccine industry is shaking off its lethargy and developing new production methods and new treatments to combat nightmare viruses. Even regulators seem to share a commitment to combining new standards for safety with an eager anticipation of new approaches to treating diseases. This year won't be soon forgotten, for reasons that are both worthy of cheer and good cause for concern.
Through it all, it's been a lot of fun. As I head into my third year as editor of FierceBiotech, I see no reason why it shouldn't be even more so. Over the past year we've expanded our readership by more than 40 percent, reaching out to biopharma leaders around the globe. Our annual Fierce 15 issue attracted a packed crowd at BIO in Philadelphia. And our first webinar on venture capital drew hundreds of attendees. I have every reason to believe that 2006 will see us extend our coverage and global reach even more.
As you may have gathered from the special format of today's newsletter, this is the final issue of FierceBiotech for 2005. We'll be back with a special issue on Tuesday, January 3, to peer into our crystal ball at the top trends of 2006. We wish you a joyous holiday season and a healthy and productive new year. - John Carroll