Scientists compile cancer gene map
A team of international researchers have screened the entire known genome of the fruit fly (Drospohila melanogaster) for genes that could play a role in cancer.
Archives for February 10, 2004
Novel cancer drug fails in Phase III
Schering-Plough last week stopped enrollment in a Phase III trial of its new anticancer agent, Sarasar (lonafarnib), after saying it would not provide sufficient evidence of efficacy as a first-line treatment for non-small cell lung cancer.
Cobra slumps on profit warning
Shares in Cobra Biomanufacturing of the UK fell 30 per cent yesterday after the contract manufacturer of proteins, DNA and viruses gave a warning on profits.
OctoPlus drug delivery tech clears Phase I trial
Dutch drug delivery company OctoPlus will undergo a significant change in 2004 as it completes its transformation from a formulation services company to one firmly planted in drug development.
FDA starts scheme to hasten drug development
A US programme aimed at shortening the development time for new pharmaceutical and biological drugs - which involves close collaboration between the Food and Drug Administration and the developer - is now underway.
Avecia boosts biocatalysis R&D
UK-based Avecia, Europe's largest privately owned chemicals company, has teamed up with Germany's IEP to develop new synthetic routes for pharmaceutical intermediates using biocatalysis.
No improvement in misprescribing rates
Despite widespread recognition of the dangers of misprescribing, one in 12 visits to the doctor in the US results in the patient receiving dangerous medications, according to new data from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
MT restructuring boosts operating profit
Swiss-American laboratory instrument company Mettler-Toledo saw its fourth-quarter revenues climb 7 per cent to $370 million (€290m) although the weak dollar accounted for a large proportion of the increase.
Virus purification advance from Amersham
Amersham Biosciences has launched a new product designed to improve the yield of viruses manufactured for gene therapy and vaccine applications.
Alum given clean bill of health
The widely used vaccine adjuvant alum is not associated with an increased risk of adverse events, despite fears to the contrary, according to a new analysis. The study should allay patient fears and help maintain immunisation rates in the wake of a...