@FierceBiotech: Burrill: Pharma's M&A strategy has failed. News | Follow @FierceBiotech
@JohnCFierce: We had a good conversation with Pfizer, Exelixis, Theravance et al. on clinical trial design and execution. Thanks to all who attended. | Follow @JohnCFierce
> Proteon Therapeutics has started enrollment for a Phase II trial for PRT-201. The study will determine the efficacy of the drug in chronic kidney disease patients undergoing surgery for arteriovenous fistula (AVF) creation in preparation for hemodialysis. Proteon release
> Washington State's biotech industry may take a hit in upcoming state budget cuts. The Life Sciences Discovery Fund may lose all its funding as legislators look for areas that could sustain deep spending slashes. The Fund's budget has been slashed consistently since it started three years ago. Article
> Advaxis has reached a research collaboration with Ellen Puré and her laboratory to define the role of fibroblast activation protein (FAP) in cancer. Using her mouse models, Advaxis will work on a live attenuated Listeria vaccine that focuses on the FAP. Release
> Axcan, a gastroenterology-focused biotech, will purchase Mpex Pharmaceuticals and gain control of Aeroquin, a pulmonary infection treatment for cystic fibrosis patients. The therapy is currently in Phase III testing and could be worth up to $350 million annually if it's approved. Story
Pharma News
@FiercePharma: Union urges votes against CEO pay at Pfizer, J&J. News | Follow @FiercePharma
> HHS moves to bar Forest CEO from pharma. Report
> Pharma layoffs: 300K in 10 years. News
> Roche sales drop 9% on currency, Avastin. Story
> Sanofi taking bids for dermatology franchise. Item
> Radiation may force Boehringer to close plant. Article
Vaccines News
> Personalized cancer vax shows promise against glioblastomas in study. Report
> Nasal vaccines could replace flu, pneumonia shots. Item
> HPV vax effective after longer dosing schedule. Article
> Army researchers start ricin vaccine trial. News
> PATH calls for cheaper, more effective pneumococcal vaccines. Story
Manufacturing News
> API crystals foul Hospira cancer drug. Item
> Ex-QC inspector alleges H&P/Triad plant violations. Report
> COO search marks Triad/H&P effort on raided plant. News
> FDA's OK of Perrigo plant signals SOP fixes. Item
And Finally... People with the gene variation GABRA2 could have a higher risk of alcoholism than the general population. According to a study, individuals with GABRA2 were more apt to behave impulsively, which could lead to alcohol dependence or abuse. Story