The considerable increase in biodiesel production worldwide in the last 5 years resulted in astoichiometric increased coproduction of crude glycerol. As an excess of crude glycerol hasbeen produced, its value on market was reduced and it is becoming a "waste-stream" insteadof a valuable "coproduct". The development of biorefineries, i.e. production of chemicals andpower integrated with conversion processes of biomass into biofuels, has been singled out asa way to achieve economically viable production chains, valorize residues and coproducts,and reduce industrial waste disposal. In this sense, several alternatives aimed at the use ofcrude glycerol to produce fuels and chemicals by microbial fermentation have beenevaluated. This review summarizes different strategies employed to produce biofuels andchemicals (1,3-propanediol, 2,3-butanediol, ethanol, n-butanol, organic acids, polyols andothers) by microbial fermentation of glycerol. Initially, the industrial use of each chemical isbriefly presented; then we systematically summarize and discuss the different strategies toproduce each chemical, including selection and genetic engineering of producers, andoptimization of process conditions to improve yield and productivity. Finally, the impact ofthe developments obtained until now are placed in perspective and opportunities andchallenges for using crude glycerol to the development of biodiesel-based biorefineries areconsidered. In conclusion, the microbial fermentation of glycerol represents a remarkablealternative to add value to the biodiesel production chain helping the development ofbiorefineries, which will allow this biofuel to be more competitive.Source:
http://www.biotechnologyforbiofuels.com/rss/

Background:
The impact of hydrothermal flowthrough (FT) pretreatment severity on pretreatment and solubilization performance metrics was evaluated for three milled feedstocks (corn stover, bagasse, and poplar) and two conversion systems (simultaneous saccharification and fermentation using yeast and fungal cellulase, and fermentation by Clostridium thermocellum).
Results:
Compared to batch pretreatment, FT pretreatment consistently resulted in higher xylan recovery, higher removal of non-carbohydrate components and higher glucan solubilization by simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF). Xylan recovery was above 90% for FT pretreatment below 4.1 severity but decreased at higher severities, particularly for bagasse. Removal of non-carbohydrate components during FT pretreatment increased from 65% at low severity to 80% at high severity for corn stover, and from 40% to 70% for bagasse and poplar.Solids obtained by FT pretreatment were amenable to high conversion for all of the feedstocks and conversion systems examined. The optimal time and temperature for FT pretreatment on poplar were found to be 16 minutes and 210 oC. At these conditions, SSF glucan conversion was about 85%, 94% of the xylan was removed, and 62% of the non carbohydrate mass was solubilized.Solubilization of FT-pretreated poplar was compared for C. thermocellum fermentation (10% inoculum), and for yeast-fungal cellulase SSF (5% inoculum, cellulase loading of 5 and 10 FPU/g glucan supplemented with beta-glucosidase at 15 and 30 U/g glucan). Under the conditions tested, which featured low solids concentration, C. thermocellum fermentation achieved faster rates and more complete conversion of FT-pretreated poplar than did SSF. Compared to SSF, solubilization by C. thermocellum was 30% higher after 4 days, and was over twice as fast on ball-milled FT-pretreated poplar.
Conclusions:
Xylan removal trends were similar between feedstocks whereas glucan conversion trends were significantly different, suggesting that factors in addition to xylan removal impact amenability of glucan to enzymatic attack. Corn stover exhibited higher hydrolysis yields than bagasse or poplar, which could be due to higher removal of non-carbohydrate components. Xylan in bagasse is more easily degraded than xylan in corn stover and poplar. Conversion of FT-pretreated substrates at low concentration was faster and more complete for C.thermocellum than for SSF.Source:
http://www.biotechnologyforbiofuels.com/rss/

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -07/20/12)- The Biotechnology Industry has been soaring in 2012 as companies -- both large and small -- have shown impressive growth. The SPDR S&P Biotech ETF (XBI) and the First Trust NYSE Arca Biotech Index ETF (FBT) year-to-date are up 37 percent and 35 percent, respectively, outperforming the broader market by a wide margin. The Paragon Report examines investing opportunities in the Biotechnology Industry and provides equity research on Galena Biopharma Inc. (GALE) and Synta Pharmaceuticals Corp. (SNTA).

Access to the full company reports can be found at:

http://www.ParagonReport.com/GALE

http://www.ParagonReport.com/SNTA

Despite having to negotiate a more challenging regulation process, biotech companies have continued to show investors strong gains in 2012. The FDA Amendments Act of 2007 forced regulators to increase standards for approvals of new drugs, introducing mandatory risk evaluation and mitigation strategies. According to a Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology report from IMAP, several pharmaceutical firms have altered their drug portfolios from primary care driven blockbusters towards specialties such as oncology, immunology and inflammation, where the medical need is "so high that prices are more easily accepted by the regulators."

Paragon Report releases regular market updates on the Biotechnology Industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at http://www.ParagonReport.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

Galena Biopharma is a biopharmaceutical company that develops innovative, targeted oncology treatments that address major unmet medical needs to advance cancer care. Shares of the company soared over 16 percent Wednesday after the company reported it received a key patent from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Synta Pharmaceuticals lead drug, ganetespib, has demonstrated compelling anti-cancer activity in multiple targeted patient populations, including in lung cancer and breast cancer, and has shown a favorable safety profile in over 450 patients treated to date. Shares of the company have surged nearly 60 percent in the last three months.

The Paragon Report has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned publicly traded companies. Paragon Report is compensated by other third party organizations for advertising services. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at:

http://www.paragonreport.com/disclaimer

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Biotech Industry Showing Impressive Growth -- Galena Biopharma and Synta Pharmaceuticals Soaring

Background:
Xylose is the second most abundant carbohydrate in the lignocellulosic biomass hydrolysate. The fermentation of xylose is essential for the bioconversion of lignocelluloses to fuels and chemicals. However the wild-type strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae are unable to utilize xylose. Many efforts have been made to construct recombinant yeast strains to enhance xylose fermentation over the past few decades. Xylose fermentation remains challenging due to the complexity of lignocellulosic biomass hydrolysate. In this study, a modified genome shuffling method was developed to improve xylose fermentation by S. cerevisiae. Recombinant yeast strains were constructed by recursive DNA shuffling with the recombination of entire genome of P. stipitis with that of S. cerevisiae.
Results:
After two rounds of genome shuffling and screening, one potential recombinant yeast strain ScF2 was obtained. It was able to utilize high concentration of xylose (100 g/L to 250 g/L xylose) and produced ethanol. The recombinant yeast ScF2 produced ethanol more rapidly than the naturally occurring xylose-fermenting yeast, P. stipitis, with improved ethanol titre and much more enhanced xylose tolerance.
Conclusion:
The modified genome shuffling method developed in this study was more effective and easier to operate than the traditional protoplast fusion based method. Recombinant yeast strain ScF2 obtained in this was a promising candidate for industrial cellulosic ethanol production. In order to further enhance its xylose fermentation performance, ScF2 needs to be additionally improved by metabolic engineering and directed evolution.Source:
http://www.biotechnologyforbiofuels.com/rss/

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -07/19/12)- The Biotechnology Industry has been soaring in 2012 as companies -- both large and small -- have shown impressive growth. The SPDR S&P Biotech ETF (XBI) and the First Trust NYSE Arca Biotech Index ETF (FBT) year-to-date are up 37 percent and 35 percent, respectively, outperforming the broader market by a wide margin. The Paragon Report examines investing opportunities in the Biotechnology Industry and provides equity research on Anthera Pharmaceuticals Inc. (ANTH) and Peregrine Pharmaceuticals (PPHM).

Access to the full company reports can be found at:

http://www.ParagonReport.com/ANTH http://www.ParagonReport.com/PPHM

Despite having to negotiate a more challenging regulation process biotech companies have continued to show investors strong gains in 2012. The FDA Amendments Act of 2007 forced regulators to increase standards for approvals of new drugs, introducing mandatory risk evaluation and mitigation strategies. According to a Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology report from IMAP, several pharmaceutical firms have altered their drug portfolios from primary care driven blockbusters towards specialties such as oncology, immunology and inflammation, where the medical need is "so high that prices are more easily accepted by the regulators."

Paragon Report releases regular market updates on the Biotechnology Industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at http://www.ParagonReport.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

Anthera Pharmaceuticals a biopharmaceutical company developing drugs to treat serious diseases associated with inflammation and autoimmune disorders, recently announced the final set of clinical data from the Phase 2b PEARL-SC study in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Shares of the company soared over 20 percent Tuesday.

Peregrine Pharmaceuticals is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing and manufacturing innovative monoclonal antibody therapeutics for the treatment of cancer and viral infections. The company recently reported fourth quarter and fiscal year 2012 results, and provided a positive outlook for their drug candidates. Shares of the company surged over 25 percent Tuesday.

The Paragon Report has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned publicly traded companies. Paragon Report is compensated by other third party organizations for advertising services. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at: http://www.paragonreport.com/disclaimer

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Anthera Pharmaceuticals and Peregrine Pharmaceuticals Set for Growth as Biotech Industry Soaring in 2012

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -07/18/12)- The Biotechnology Industry has been soaring in 2012 as companies -- both large and small -- have shown impressive growth. The SPDR S&P Biotech ETF (XBI) and the First Trust NYSE Arca Biotech Index ETF (FBT) year-to-date are up 37 percent and 35 percent, respectively, outperforming the broader market by a wide margin. The Paragon Report examines investing opportunities in the Biotechnology Industry and provides equity research on Lexicon Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (LXRX) and Rosetta Genomics Ltd. (ROSG).

Access to the full company reports can be found at: http://www.ParagonReport.com/LXRX http://www.ParagonReport.com/ROSG

Despite having to negotiate a more challenging regulation process biotech companies have continued to show investors strong gains in 2012. The FDA Amendments Act of 2007 forced regulators to increase standards for approvals of new drugs, introducing mandatory risk evaluation and mitigation strategies. According to a Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology report from IMAP, several pharmaceutical firms have altered their drug portfolios from primary care driven blockbusters towards specialties such as oncology, immunology and inflammation, where the medical need is "so high that prices are more easily accepted by the regulators."

Paragon Report releases regular market updates on the Biotechnology Industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at http://www.ParagonReport.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

Lexicon is a biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering breakthrough treatments for human disease. Lexicon currently has five drug programs in mid-stage development for diabetes, carcinoid syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis and glaucoma, all of which were discovered by Lexicon's research team. Shares of the company are up over 140 percent year-to-date.

Rosetta Genomics is a leading developer of microRNA-based diagnostic tests and therapeutic tools. MicroRNAs are a recently discovered group of short, non-coding genes which regulate the expression of other genes. MicroRNA-based diagnostics may offer physicians and patients an objective tool to accurately identify cancer, predict outcomes and help guide treatment.

The Paragon Report has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned publicly traded companies. Paragon Report is compensated by other third party organizations for advertising services. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at: http://www.paragonreport.com/disclaimer

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Lexicon Pharmaceuticals and Rosetta Genomics Showing Impressive Growth in 2012

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -07/17/12)- The Biotechnology Industry has been soaring in 2012 as companies -- both large and small -- have shown impressive growth. The SPDR S&P Biotech ETF (XBI) and the First Trust NYSE Arca Biotech Index ETF (FBT) year-to-date are up 37 percent and 35 percent, respectively, outperforming the broader market by a wide margin. The Paragon Report examines investing opportunities in the Biotechnology Industry and provides equity research on Avanir Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (AVNR) and CytRx Corporation (CYTR).

Access to the full company reports can be found at:

http://www.ParagonReport.com/AVNR

http://www.ParagonReport.com/CYTR

Despite having to negotiate a more challenging regulation process biotech companies have continued to show investors strong gains in 2012. The FDA Amendments Act of 2007 forced regulators to increase standards for approvals of new drugs, introducing mandatory risk evaluation and mitigation strategies. According to a Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology report from IMAP, several pharmaceutical firms have altered their drug portfolios from primary care driven blockbusters towards specialties such as oncology, immunology and inflammation, where the medical need is "so high that prices are more easily accepted by the regulators."

Paragon Report releases regular market updates on the Biotechnology Industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at http://www.ParagonReport.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

Avanir Pharmaceuticals is a biopharmaceutical company focused on bringing innovative medicines to patients with central nervous system disorders of high unmet medical need. Avanir's NUEDEXTA is the first and only FDA-approved treatments for Pseudobulbar affect (PBA). PBA is characterized by involuntary, sudden, and frequent episodes of laughing and/or crying. Shares of the company have surged over 60 percent this year.

CytRx Corporation is a biopharmaceutical research and development company specializing in oncology. The CytRx oncology pipeline includes three programs in clinical development for cancer indications: INNO-206, tamibarotene and bafetinib. The company recently announced that the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) have issued a notice of allowance for a patent application with claims covering a pharmaceutical composition of tamibarotene in capsule form.

The Paragon Report has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned publicly traded companies. Paragon Report is compensated by other third party organizations for advertising services. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at: http://www.paragonreport.com/disclaimer

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Specialty Biotech Companies Soaring in 2012 -- Avanir Pharmaceuticals and CytRx Looking Strong

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -07/17/12)- The Biotechnology Industry has been soaring in 2012 as companies -- both large and small -- have shown impressive growth. The SPDR S&P Biotech ETF (XBI) and the First Trust NYSE Arca Biotech Index ETF (FBT) year-to-date are up 37 percent and 35 percent, respectively, outperforming the broader market by a wide margin. The Paragon Report examines investing opportunities in the Biotechnology Industry and provides equity research on Biosante Pharmaceuticals Inc. (BPAX) and Dendreon Corporation (DNDN).

Access to the full company reports can be found at:

http://www.ParagonReport.com/BPAX

http://www.ParagonReport.com/DNDN

Despite having to negotiate a more challenging regulation process biotech companies have continued to show investors strong gains in 2012. The FDA Amendments Act of 2007 forced regulators to increase standards for approvals of new drugs, introducing mandatory risk evaluation and mitigation strategies. According to a Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology report from IMAP, several pharmaceutical firms have altered their drug portfolios from primary care driven blockbusters towards specialties such as oncology, immunology and inflammation, where the medical need is "so high that prices are more easily accepted by the regulators."

Paragon Report releases regular market updates on the Biotechnology Industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at http://www.ParagonReport.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

BioSante is a specialty pharmaceutical company focused on developing products for female sexual health and oncology. BioSante also is developing a portfolio of cancer vaccines, with 17 Phase I and Phase II clinical trials currently on-going. The company has recently regained compliance with the minimum bid price requirement for continued inclusion of its common stock on The NASDAQ Global Market.

Dendreon is a biotechnology company focused on targeting cancer and transforming lives through the discovery, development, commercialization, and manufacturing of novel therapeutics that may significantly improve cancer treatment options for patients. Dendreon's PROVENGE is the first autologous cellular immunotherapy to receive FDA approval for the treatment of asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic metastatic castrate resistant prostate cancer.

The Paragon Report has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned publicly traded companies. Paragon Report is compensated by other third party organizations for advertising services. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at: http://www.paragonreport.com/disclaimer

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Despite Facing Tougher Regulation Process Biotech Industry Soaring in 2012

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -07/17/12)- The Biotechnology Industry has been soaring in 2012 as companies -- both large and small -- have shown impressive growth. The SPDR S&P Biotech ETF (XBI) and the First Trust NYSE Arca Biotech Index ETF (FBT) year-to-date are up 37 percent and 35 percent, respectively, outperforming the broader market by a wide margin. The Paragon Report examines investing opportunities in the Biotechnology Industry and provides equity research on Cell Therapeutics Inc. (CTIC) and Oncothyreon Inc. (ONTY).

Access to the full company reports can be found at:

http://www.paragonreport.com/CTIC

http://www.paragonreport.com/ONTY

Despite having to negotiate a more challenging regulation process biotech companies have continued to show investors strong gains in 2012. The FDA Amendments Act of 2007 forced regulators to increase standards for approvals of new drugs, introducing mandatory risk evaluation and mitigation strategies. According to a Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology report from IMAP, several pharmaceutical firms have altered their drug portfolios from primary care driven blockbusters towards specialties such as oncology, immunology and inflammation, where the medical need is "so high that prices are more easily accepted by the regulators."

Paragon Report releases regular market updates on the Biotechnology Industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at http://www.ParagonReport.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

Cell Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company committed to developing an integrated portfolio of oncology products aimed at making cancer more treatable. The company last month completed the acquisition of Pacritinib a highly selective JAK2 inhibitor demonstrated encouraging clinical activity in phase 1 and 2 clinical studies of patients with primary myelofibrosis (MF) and MF secondary to other myeloproliferative neoplasms.

Oncothyreon is a biotechnology company specializing in the development of innovative therapeutic products for the treatment of cancer. Oncothyreon's goal is to develop and commercialize novel synthetic vaccines and targeted small molecules that have the potential to improve the lives and outcomes of cancer patients.

The Paragon Report has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned publicly traded companies. Paragon Report is compensated by other third party organizations for advertising services. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at: http://www.paragonreport.com/disclaimer

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Biotech Companies -- Both Large and Small -- Showing Impressive Growth in 2012

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -07/18/12)- The Biotechnology Industry has been soaring in 2012 as companies -- both large and small -- have shown impressive growth. The SPDR S&P Biotech ETF (XBI) and the First Trust NYSE Arca Biotech Index ETF (FBT) year-to-date are up 37 percent and 35 percent, respectively, outperforming the broader market by a wide margin. The Paragon Report examines investing opportunities in the Biotechnology Industry and provides equity research on Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (ALNY) and Nektar Therapeutics (NKTR).

Access to the full company reports can be found at: http://www.ParagonReport.com/ALNY http://www.ParagonReport.com/NKTR

Despite having to negotiate a more challenging regulation process biotech companies have continued to show investors strong gains in 2012. The FDA Amendments Act of 2007 forced regulators to increase standards for approvals of new drugs, introducing mandatory risk evaluation and mitigation strategies. According to a Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology report from IMAP, several pharmaceutical firms have altered their drug portfolios from primary care driven blockbusters towards specialties such as oncology, immunology and inflammation, where the medical need is "so high that prices are more easily accepted by the regulators."

Paragon Report releases regular market updates on the Biotechnology Industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at http://www.ParagonReport.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

Alnylam is a biopharmaceutical company developing novel therapeutics based on RNA interference, or RNAi. The company is leading the translation of RNAi as a new class of innovative medicines with a core focus on RNAi therapeutics for the treatment of genetically defined diseases. Shares of the company surged over 50 percent Monday after reporting promising clinical results from its Phase I trial with ALN-TTR02.

Nektar Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company developing novel therapeutics based on its PEGylation and advanced polymer conjugation technology platforms. Nektar has a robust R&D pipeline of potentially high-value therapeutics in pain, oncology, and other therapeutic areas. The company recently announced the private placement of $125 million of Senior Secured Notes due in 2017.

The Paragon Report has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned publicly traded companies. Paragon Report is compensated by other third party organizations for advertising services. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at: http://www.paragonreport.com/disclaimer

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Despite Facing Tougher Regulation Process Biotech Companies Showing Investors Impressive Gains in 2012

WASHINGTON & MUMBAI, India--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

The Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) is pleased to announce the 3rd Annual BIO India International Conference will be held September 12-13 at the Grand Hyatt in Mumbai, India. BIO will partner with the Association of Biotechnology Led Enterprises (ABLE), which represents Indian and Asian biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, as well as leading investment banks and Venture Capital firms.

BIO India returns to India for its third year to bring together biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies from North America, Europe and Asia toexplore business opportunities with Indias emerging biotechnology sector, said Alan Eisenberg, Executive Vice President of Emerging Companies and Business Development at BIO. During this time of resurgenceof growth in the Indian economy and the healthcare sector in particular, it is critical for Indian and International biotechnology companies to capitalize on opportunities available within India. Working withABLE, we are committed to supporting the biotechnology industry in India by hosting this event that will connect U.S., European and Asian companies for potential deals and collaborations.

BIO India will feature high-level keynote speakers, educational India-focused panels, networking opportunities, company presentations, and the BIO One-on-One Partnering system. BIOs partnering system provides an interactive environment to intelligently search, contact and schedule private meetings with potential partners and investors.

Mr. Sam Pitroda, Advisor to the PM on Public Information Infrastructure and Innovation will address the conference. Mr. Pitroda is a visionary who has played a major transformational role in the Indian IT sector making it one of the major drivers of the Indian economy. His current mandate includes driving innovation down to the small and medium enterprises to help an inclusive and sustainable growth.

H. Thomas Watkins, President and Chief Executive Officer of Maryland-based Human Genome Sciences, will provide a keynote address at the conference. Mr. Watkins joined HGS in December 2004, and previously worked with Abbott Laboratories and its affiliates in the U.S. and Asia for nearly twenty years. Mr. Watkins is Chair of the Board of Directors of BIO and Chair of the Life Sciences Advisory Board of the State of Maryland.

Biotech industry in India is growing at 24% for the past decade and for this to happen year on year, collaborations andpartnershipsare vital to do business. BIO India is the most preferred platform for partnering, saidDr. Panchapagesa Murali President, ABLE.

The 2011 BIO India conference attracted more than 70 percent Indian attendance, and featured presentations fromtop Indian, U.S. and European biotech companies. Through the BIO One-on-One Partnering system, delegates scheduled more than 500 partnering meetings in the two day event.

Through this conference and ongoing advocacy efforts, BIO aims to help the industry flourish within India's borders and help patients and citizens benefit from the promise of biotech. BIO brings to India more than ten years experience and expertise in biotechnology and pharmaceutical partnering. BIO is renowned for its successful partnering meetings held around the globe, including the industrys largest partnering event the BIO Business Forum at the BIO International Convention.

About BIO

Continued here:
BIO India International Conference to Bring Global Biotechnology Industry Leaders to Mumbai

ROCKVILLE, Md., July 16, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Novavax, Inc. (NVAX), CPL Biologicals (CPLB) and the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), today announced that they have formed a new collaboration to develop a novel malaria vaccine in India. This unique public-private partnership will combine the advanced vaccine technology of Novavax with the malaria vaccine research capabilities of ICGEB and vaccine manufacturing capability of CPLB, to develop a new and effective malaria vaccine. The project is being funded by India's Department of Biotechnology Vaccine Grand Challenge Program and will be managed by the Malaria Vaccine Development Program, a New Delhi-based not-for-profit organization established to support the development of malaria vaccines.

Novavax's virus-like particle (VLP) vaccine technology platform will be applied to construct malaria vaccine candidates, which CPLB will manufacture for advanced preclinical studies, clinical trials and commercialization. The partners will develop and evaluate VLPs that express Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite protein (PfCSP), which has been used to develop the only recombinant malaria vaccine that has shown efficacy in field trials. After establishing the feasibility of Novavax's technology, the partners will explore the possibility of producing additional VLPs against antigens from other stages of malaria parasites. The partners believe a multi-stage VLP malaria vaccine has the potential for higher efficacy compared to vaccines based on a single antigen or that target only one stage of the malaria parasite.

Malaria remains a major public health problem in many regions of the tropical world. Forty percent of the world's population lives in malaria endemic regions of Africa, Asia and Central and South America. Despite the widespread use of insecticides, bed nets and other malaria control efforts, there are approximately 210 million cases of malaria each year that lead to around 650,000 deaths, primarily in children less than five years of age. There is an urgent need for malaria vaccines with high efficacy that can be used in conjunction with other control efforts to provide protection against malaria.

Dr. Virander Chauhan, Ph.D., Director of ICGEB, New Delhi, which will provide their extensive experience in pre-clinical and clinical development of vaccines, said, "ICGEB is excited about the possibility of working with Novavax and CPLB to advance malaria vaccine development."

Indravadan A Modi, Chairman of Cadila Pharmaceuticals Ltd, said, "CPLB will develop manufacturing processes for the vaccine candidates and will provide GMP production capability in support of this initiative." He also stated, "Malaria is a common health problem for tropical countries and efforts have been ongoing for years for its eradication. I am confident that a multi-stage VLP malaria vaccine will prove beneficial in saving precious lives by restricting morbidity and mortality associated with malaria."

Dr. Gale Smith, Novavax's Vice President Vaccine Development, stated: "Novavax is honored to be working with leading malaria experts at ICGEB and with the Department of Biotechnology of the Government of India to support the development and production of malaria vaccine candidates by Novavax and CPLB. By combining our knowledge and experience with these partners to pursue the most advanced malaria vaccine concepts, we hope to one day have an effective vaccine against one of the world's most devastating diseases."

About Novavax

Novavax, Inc. (NVAX) is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company creating novel vaccines to address a broad range of infectious diseases worldwide. Using innovative virus-like particle (VLP) and recombinant nanoparticle vaccine technology, as well as new and efficient manufacturing approaches, the company produces novel vaccine candidates to combat diseases, with the goal of allowing countries to better prepare for and more effectively respond to rapidly spreading infections. Novavax is committed to using its technology platforms to create geographic-specific vaccine solutions and is therefore involved in several international partnerships, including collaborations with Cadila Pharmaceuticals of India and LG Life Sciences of Korea. Together, these companies have worldwide commercialization capacity and the global reach to create real and lasting change in the biopharmaceutical field. Additional information about Novavax is available on the company's website: http://www.novavax.com.

About CPLB

CPL Biologicals Pvt. Ltd., a joint-venture biotechnology company established by Novavax Inc. and Cadila Pharmaceuticals, one of the largest privately held pharmaceutical companies in India based in Ahmedabad, manufactures VLP-based influenza vaccines developed by Novavax. CPLB has made rapid progress with the completion and validation of its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, which is now operational and capable of producing a significant volume of novel vaccine doses every year. This facility utilizes the identical single-use vaccine bioprocessing system that Novavax employs at its pilot plant in Rockville, Maryland.

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NOVAVAX, CPL Biologicals and the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Announce Collaboration ...

A biotechnology company that has licensed a drug for the treatment of neurodegenerative disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or Lou Gehrigs disease, in phase 3 development withBiogen Idec (NASDAQ:BIIB) is raising $30 million to develop its product pipeline.

The financing is being done in two tranches of $15 million to help accelerate discovery of next-generation mitochondrial mediators for neurodegenerative disorders and to support near-term clinical development of a novel combination treatment for Parkinsons disease, according to an emailed statement from Tom Petzinger Jr., executive vice president for business development and public affairs.

Knopp Biosciences, based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was started to develop a cure for ALS and is led by CEO Michael Bozik. Life science accelerator LaunchCyte and Dr. Robert Bowser, a University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine associate professor of pathology and director of the universitys center for ALS research, co-founded the company.

The drug, which has been given fast-track approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, is currently undergoing clinical trials that include 900 people globally, according to Biogens annual report.

As part of its research for developing dexpramipexole, Knopp researchers learned that it protects stressed neurons and other cell types from dying, according to the companys website. Knopps discovery team has found initial evidence of neuroprotection by dexpramipexole with in vitro models of Parkinsons disease.

Knopps biology and medicinal chemistry groups are collaborating to develop next-generation modulators of mitochondrial bioenergetics for conditions such as Alzheimers disease, diabetes and heart failure.

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Biotechnology firm raising $30M to advance Parkinson’s, neurodegenerative diseases

LAWRENCEBURG, Indiana, July 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- PDS Biotechnology Corporation announced today that they have entered into an exclusive worldwide licensing agreement with Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, for use of PDS Biotechnologys novel Versamune nanotechnology platform in two of Mercks investigational antigen-specific cancer immunotherapies currently in pre-clinical development. Merck obtains the rights to utilize the technology with two investigational antigen-specific cancer immunotherapies which are in pre-clinical development.

Under the terms of the licensing agreement, PDS Biotechnology Corporation will receive an undisclosed upfront payment in cash, as well as development milestone payments, and commercial and sales milestone payments. PDS Biotechnology Corporation will also receive royalties on sales of the products incorporating the technology.

Dr. Frank Bedu-Addo, Chief Executive of PDS Biotechnology Corporation said, "We are very pleased that Merck which is experienced in the clinical development of cancer immunotherapies would like to utilize the Versamune technology. For PDS Biotechnology Corporation, this deal is important since the companys business strategy is focused on a few strategic out-licensing or partnering deals at a preclinical or early clinical stage. This is the stage where companies will be seeking to enhance their pipelines by taking advantage of a new technology that has broad potential applications in clinical research into the treatment and prevention of cancer and infectious diseases."

About PDS Biotechnology Corporation and Versamune PDS Biotechnology Corporation is a privately held biotechnology company founded to exploit the newly discovered properties of specific synthetic positively charged (cationic) lipids to commercialize a new generation of immunotherapies and vaccines. The proprietary Versamune platform nanotechnology, when combined with specific cancer-associated molecules, has been demonstrated to lead to increased tumor regression rates compared to leading clinical adjuvants in pre-clinical cancer models (Cancer Immunology Immunotherapy, 2008, 57: (4) 517-530). The Versamune nanotechnology presents a giant step forward in the development of the next generation of immunotherapies. PDS Biotechnology Corporations lead products are being developed to treat prevalent cancers such as cervical cancer, head and neck cancer and melanoma. The technology is also being applied to the development of vaccines which are designed to protect against pandemic diseases. Visit http://www.pdsbiotech.com [http://www.pdsbiotech.com/] for more information on Versamune and products in development.

PDS Biotechnology Corporation

Web site: http://www.pdsbiotech.com/

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PDS Biotechnology Corporation Signs Worldwide Licensing Agreement with Merck KGaA for Versamuneâ„¢

By The Canadian Press

VANCOUVER - Canadian biotechnology company QLT Inc. is cutting its workforce by two-thirds, leaving it with 68 employees after a downsizing brought in by new leadership following a proxy battle waged by some of its shareholders.

Among those leaving is Robert Butchofsky, who has been QLT's president and chief executive. He has agreed to stay until July 31 as part of the transition.

The Vancouver-based company (TSX:QLT.TO - News) had been one of Canada's most successful biotechnology firms based on its treatment for a common form of age-related blindness.

But sales of Visudyne have fallen and QLT has struggled in recent years to find another commercially successful product.

As a result, QLT's new chairman says the company is cutting 146 of its 214 remaining jobs.

He says the downsizing will reduce QLT's annual operating expenses by $45 million to $50 million in 2013. The downsizing will cost about $14 million to $17 million, mostly for severance and change-of-control payments.

QLT's new board of directors has also authorized a payout of $100 million to its shareholders in a process known as a return of capital.

"To understand why the Board is taking this new direction, it is critical to understand why it was elected and how QLT's previous strategic plan could have put the company in a precarious financial position," QLT chairman Jason Aryeh said in a letter to shareholders publishes Monday.

"Our board was elected by concerned and frustrated shareholders, disquieted that the company's spending and headcount seemed to be inappropriate given the nature of its assets, size and focus."

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Canadian biotechnology developer QLT slashes workforce by two-thirds, CEO to depart

LAWRENCEBURG, Ind., July 9, 2012 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- PDS Biotechnology Corporation announced today that they have entered into an exclusive worldwide licensing agreement with Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, for use of PDS Biotechnology's novel Versamune(TM) nanotechnology platform in two of Merck's investigational antigen-specific cancer immunotherapies currently in pre-clinical development. Merck obtains the rights to utilize the technology with two investigational antigen-specific cancer immunotherapies which are in pre-clinical development.

Under the terms of the licensing agreement, PDS Biotechnology Corporation will receive an undisclosed upfront payment in cash, as well as development milestone payments, and commercial and sales milestone payments. PDS Biotechnology Corporation will also receive royalties on sales of the products incorporating the technology.

Dr. Frank Bedu-Addo, Chief Executive of PDS Biotechnology Corporation said, "We are very pleased that Merck which is experienced in the clinical development of cancer immunotherapies would like to utilize the Versamune(TM) technology. For PDS Biotechnology Corporation, this deal is important since the company's business strategy is focused on a few strategic out-licensing or partnering deals at a preclinical or early clinical stage. This is the stage where companies will be seeking to enhance their pipelines by taking advantage of a new technology that has broad potential applications in clinical research into the treatment and prevention of cancer and infectious diseases."

About PDS Biotechnology Corporation and Versamune(TM)

PDS Biotechnology Corporation is a privately held biotechnology company founded to exploit the newly discovered properties of specific synthetic positively charged (cationic) lipids to commercialize a new generation of immunotherapies and vaccines. The proprietary Versamune(TM) platform nanotechnology, when combined with specific cancer-associated molecules, has been demonstrated to lead to increased tumor regression rates compared to leading clinical adjuvants in pre-clinical cancer models (Cancer Immunology Immunotherapy, 2008, 57: (4) 517-530). The Versamune(TM) nanotechnology presents a giant step forward in the development of the next generation of immunotherapies. PDS Biotechnology Corporation's lead products are being developed to treat prevalent cancers such as cervical cancer, head and neck cancer and melanoma. The technology is also being applied to the development of vaccines which are designed to protect against pandemic diseases. Visit http://www.pdsbiotech.com for more information on Versamune(TM) and products in development.

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PDS Biotechnology Corporation Signs Worldwide Licensing Agreement with Merck KGaA for Versamune(TM)

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Equity Research on Sequenom Inc. and Biogen Idec Inc. -- Biotechnology Industry Taking the Good With the Bad

LAWRENCEBURG, Ind., July 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --PDS Biotechnology Corporation announced today that they have entered into an exclusive worldwide licensing agreement with Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, for use of PDS Biotechnology's novel Versamune nanotechnology platform in two of Merck's investigational antigen-specific cancer immunotherapies currently in pre-clinical development. Merck obtains the rights to utilize the technology with two investigational antigen-specific cancer immunotherapies which are in pre-clinical development.

Under the terms of the licensing agreement, PDS Biotechnology Corporation will receive an undisclosed upfront payment in cash, as well as development milestone payments, and commercial and sales milestone payments. PDS Biotechnology Corporation will also receive royalties on sales of the products incorporating the technology.

Dr. Frank Bedu-Addo, Chief Executive of PDS Biotechnology Corporation said, "We are very pleased that Merck which is experienced in the clinical development of cancer immunotherapies would like to utilize the Versamune technology. For PDS Biotechnology Corporation, this deal is important since the company's business strategy is focused on a few strategic out-licensing or partnering deals at a preclinical or early clinical stage. This is the stage where companies will be seeking to enhance their pipelines by taking advantage of a new technology that has broad potential applications in clinical research into the treatment and prevention of cancer and infectious diseases."

About PDS Biotechnology Corporation and VersamunePDS Biotechnology Corporation is a privately held biotechnology company founded to exploit the newly discovered properties of specific synthetic positively charged (cationic) lipids to commercialize a new generation of immunotherapies and vaccines. The proprietary Versamune platform nanotechnology, when combined with specific cancer-associated molecules, has been demonstrated to lead to increased tumor regression rates compared to leading clinical adjuvants in pre-clinical cancer models (Cancer Immunology Immunotherapy, 2008, 57: (4) 517-530). The Versamune nanotechnology presents a giant step forward in the development of the next generation of immunotherapies. PDS Biotechnology Corporation's lead products are being developed to treat prevalent cancers such as cervical cancer, head and neck cancer and melanoma. The technology is also being applied to the development of vaccines which are designed to protect against pandemic diseases. Visit http://www.pdsbiotech.com for more information on Versamune and products in development.

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PDS Biotechnology Corporation Signs Worldwide Licensing Agreement with Merck KGaA for Versamune™

Ibadan Stakeholders including members of the National Assembly have berated President Goodluck Jonathan over his inability to assent into law till date the agricultural biotechnology bill which was passed by the 6th National Assembly since June 2011.

The chairman, Senate Committee on Capital Market, Senator Ayo Adeseun and the chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Science and Technology, Abiodun Akinlade were among the stakeholders who met at the June Edition of the Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OPAB) in Ibadan.

The legislators expressed their displeasure over the inability of the President to ascent to the bill one year after it was passed by both chambers of the National Assembly.

The forum which drew agricultural professionals from different parts of the country including chief executives of the various research institutions had the theme "Biotechnology for improved Cocoa Production in Nigeria."

In an address, the governor of Oyo State, Senator Isiaka Abiola Ajimobi, noted that "the domestication of biotechnology in Nigeria is a welcome development in view of the vital role it can play in the socio-economic development of the nation, including environment and agriculture, as evidenced from development in other climes the world over."

The governor was represented by his Deputy, Chief Moses Alake Adeyemo.

Senator Adeseun, in his contribution, lamented that President Goodluck Jonathan was yet to sign into law several bills passed by the National Assembly, notably the agricultural biotechnology bill, emphasizing that this has been impacting negatively on the envisaged success of the much publicized agricultural transformation agenda of the present administration.

"Nigeria, despite its rich agricultural endowment has been importing an equivalent of one billion naira worth of rice per day, apart from other similar food importations," Adeseun said.

He was optimistic the the massive importation trend would change through the adoption of biotechnology.

He said: "In any case, if he (President Jonathan) fails to assent the Agricultural Biotechnology Bill, it is a matter of time we in the National Assembly will now assume that he has veto the bill and we will bring it back and we will override his veto."

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Nigeria: Stakeholders Challenge Jonathan Over Agricultural Biotechnology Law

DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/9kv7j8/uk_biotechnology_s) has announced the addition of the "UK Biotechnology Sector: Industry Profile" report to their offering.

This industry profile helps to gain an insight into the evolution of the industry and competitive dynamics prevalent in the market. It discusses the significant developments in the industry and analyzes the key trends and issues. The profile provides inputs in strategic business planning of industry professionals.

This profile is of immense help to management consultants, analysts, market research organizations and corporate advisors.

Key Topics Covered

Industry Snapshot

This section gives a holistic overview of the industry. It starts with defining the market and goes on to give historical and current market size figures. It also clearly illustrates the major segments of the market which would be discussed later on in the report.

Industry Analysis

It involves a comprehensive analysis of the industry and its market segments. This section discusses the key developments that have taken place in the industry. It also identifies and analyzes the driving factors and challenges of the industry. A description of the regulatory structure tells us about the major regulatory bodies, laws and government policies.

Country Analysis

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Research and Markets: UK Biotechnology Sector: Industry Profile