Novartis announced today Phase III trial results that showed more than one-third of patients taking Afinitor® (everolimus) tablets* experienced a 50% or greater reduction in the size of their subependymal giant cell astrocytomas (SEGAs), non-cancerous brain tumors associated with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC)[1],[2],[6].

Pfizer Inc. (NYSE: PFE) is exploring strategic alternatives for its Animal Health and Nutrition businesses based on its recent business portfolio review to determine the optimal mix of businesses for maximizing shareholder value.

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (NYSE: BMY) and Innate Pharma S.A. (Euronext Paris: FR0010331421, IPH) announced a global agreement for the development and commercialization of IPH2102, a novel antibody in Phase I development for the treatment of cancer.

Amgen (NASDAQ: AMGN) and UCB (Euronext Brussels: UCB) are collaborating with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Ames Research Center to conduct a preclinical test of a sclerostin antibody in an experiment that will take place aboard space shuttle Atlantis,

London 2012 partner GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) signed a long-term agreement with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) that will help the agency create early detection methods for medicines that have performance-enhancing potential in sport.

Novartis announced that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved once-daily Arcapta(TM) Neohaler(TM) (indacaterol inhalation powder) 75 mcg for the long-term maintenance bronchodilator treatment of airflow obstruction in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and/or emphysema[1].

Pfizer Inc. (NYSE: PFE) and the Russian pharmaceutical investment and R&D group ChemRar High Tech Center (ChemRar) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore a collaboration focused on research, development and commercialization of innovative drugs in Russia and other countries.