Novo readies a big PhIII program for diabetes drug semaglutide; Sucampo inks deal to acquire R-Tech Ueno;

@FierceBiotech: TSRI researchers spotlight a hidden cause of antibiotics resistance. Story from FierceBiotechResearch | Follow @FierceBiotech

@JohnCFierce: Immatics, MD Anderson partner on a $60M immuno-oncology T-cell spinout. News | Follow @JohnCFierce

> Novo Nordisk ($NVO) said today that it is prepared to launch a major Phase III program for semaglutide, an oral  GLP-1 diabetes drug. It's a big commitment. The first study started in Q1 of next year, with investigators studying three doses of 3 mg, 7 mg and 14 mg compared to sitagliptin. And later that year 6 more studies will get started as Novo lays the foundation for a new drug application with data from some 8,000 patients. The Phase III plan follows a promising Phase II trial and discussions with regulatory officials. Release

> Sucampo Pharmaceuticals has struck a deal to buy Japan's R-Tech Ueno in a deal valued at $276 million. Story

Medical Device News

@FierceMedDev: ICYMI yesterday: Startup wins $9.4M Series A to back speedy handheld vital sign scanner. Article | Follow @FierceMedDev

@VarunSaxena2: Medtronic to buy Twelve for $408M+, joining Abbott and Edwards on the transcatheter mitral valve bandwagon. Report | Follow @VarunSaxena2

@EmilyWFierce: Readers weighed in on who $AGN should buy next. Find out who emerged the winner. More from FiercePharma | Follow @EmilyWFierce

> GE lends radiology tech to Philadelphia hospital in contract deal. More

> Noninvasive, point-of-care kidney monitor startup raises $22.4M to get to market. Story

> AirXpanders' tissue expander for breast reconstruction meets primary endpoint. Article

Pharma News

@FiercePharma: UPDATED: With vote approaching, Perrigo chief slams Mylan's 'troubling' values. Story | Follow @FiercePharma

@CarlyHFierce: ICYMI yesterday: Shire rejigs manufacturing deal to step up Cinryze production. Story | Follow @CarlyHFierce

> Eli Lilly pops the bubbly on U.S. Alimta patent victory. More

> U.S. patent office puts new Copaxone's IP shield under the lens. Article

Biotech Research News

> New method uses coated gold nanorods to treat pain. Item

> UCSF cardiology chief builds a case for two new targets for heart drugs. More

> UC Berkeley team says brown fat implants may effectively tackle obesity. Report

> TSRI researchers spotlight a hidden cause of antibiotics resistance. Article

> MSK: 'This is what the future of precision medicine looks like.' Story

Diagnostics News

> Sequenom strikes liquid biopsy research deal with UC San Diego Moores. Item

> Roche shops around for sequencing tech with Lumora buy. More

> Illumina makes moves in China with Burning Rock cancer Dx deal. Report

> Roche's M&A party rages on with Kapa Biosystems deal. Story

> Guardant Health teams with Flatiron for liquid biopsy-based drug development platform. Article

Pharma Marketing News

> Novo pulls blockbuster diabetes med Victoza off the Type 1 track. Report

> Eli Lilly slaps down Teva's challenge to Alimta exclusivity. Item

> AstraZeneca uses snails and overstuffed luggage to push OIC awareness--and its branded solution. Article

> Boehringer Ingelheim partners with telenovela for diabetes storyline. News

> Can Sprout's Addyi shrug off serious side effects? These blockbusters did. Story