@FierceBiotech: Complete Genomics axes 55 staffers, hires financial adviser to aid in exploring "strategic alternatives." Story | Follow @FierceBiotech
@JohnCFierce: Merck may be better dumping sarcomas and focusing on other tumor types in the clinic. | Follow @JohnCFierce
@RyanMFierce: With the FDA shunning Merck's ridaforolimus bid, Ariad looks pretty smart for front-ending its licensing terms with Merck on the cancer drug. | Follow @RyanMFierce
> Sanofi ($SNY) is closing in on pivotal results for its dengue fever vaccine, which the pharma giant believes can earn a billion euros a year. Article
> Complete Genomics ($GNOM) is slumping. The provider of whole genome sequencing and informatics support has decided to cut about 20% of its roster to conserve cash, and the company has hired a financial adviser to aid in its hunt for "strategic alternatives." Story
> In a head-to-head study Roche ($RHHBY) says that Actemra beat out Humira in treating rheumatoid arthritis in a Phase IV trial. Story
> Novartis ($NVS) released new late-stage data demonstrating Ilaris's significant impact on systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Close to two thirds of the patients became symptom free, almost twice the rate in the placebo arm of the study. Report
> The Philadelphia Inquirer ponders Teva's ($TEVA) planned expansion in the branded drug business. More
Pharma News
@FiercePharma: Is the whole morning-after contraceptive fight based on a misunderstanding about how they work?--NYT. Report | Follow @FiercePharma
> Study finds Roche's Actemra bests Abbott's blockbuster Humira. News
> Geneva workers propose scaleback at Merck Serono HQ. Report
> U.K. pharma balks at value-based pricing ideas. More
Medical Devices News
@FierceMedDev: Only a few weeks left to submit your nominations for the 15 fiercest private device developers. Survey | Follow @FierceMedDev
> GE Healthcare buys Brazilian X-ray equipment company. News
> J&J/Ethicon to stop selling four vaginal mesh implants. Story
> Stryker offers $33M to settle DOJ knee implant inquiry. Article
Drug Delivery News
@DamianFierce: Zogenix is moving forward with its DosePro drug delivery platform, filing an IND for a new anti-psychotic. More | Follow @DamianFierce
> FDA wants more info on pen delivery for Amylin's Bydureon. Story
> At ASCO, unique delivery makes TDM-1 a standout. Item
> Aptar buys injectable delivery company for $207M. News
> MIT: DNA origami could safely deliver RNAi treatment. Article
Biomarkers News
> DNA tracking responses to cancer treatment. More
> A blood test for schizophrenia? Item
> Parkinson's disease gene cluster marks early diagnosis. Story
> Teens' low-fiber diets expand bellies, disease risks. Article
And Finally... Investigators at Caltech have been studying the biologic nexus between touch and emotion. Release