Cracking the biotech code

Article Abstract:

Alan Smith graduated from Cambridge in biochemistry and gained his PhD at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology where he studied DNA tumor viruses, the SV40, and established SV40's genome structure. Smith then moved out to Genzyme and became its Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) where he created an open atmosphere and encouraged drug research on various diseases.

Biography, University of Cambridge, Smith, Alan

Swimming in a smaller pond

Article Abstract:

Mersana Therapeutics CEO Julia Olsen had to make many adjustments after she left cutting deals at pharma giant Pfizer for the life at a start-up. Mersana is developing a biodegradable, bioinert polymer called Fleximer, which when linked to certain anticancer agents might make the drugs more soluble, less toxic to the body and more effective in attacking tumors.

Product development, Drugs, Massachusetts, Biological products industry, Biopolymers, Olsen, Julia

A receptive leader

Article Abstract:

A brief success story on Graham Allaway, from Panacos, a Water-town, Mass-based drug development company who raised above all market adversity and demotion from CEO position to bring the company back to bright future with Phase III trial of its compound, an HIV-maturation inhibitor called PA-457 or bevirimat is presented.

Pharmaceutical preparations, United States, Pharmaceutical industry, Allaway, Graham, Panacos Pharmaceuticals Inc.