GLG News by Hematologist who treat patients with Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH)

ZymoGenetic appears to have a biologic that will expedite lymphocytes apoptosis (destruction) when combined with Fludara and Rituxan- 2 standard agents in this rather common & occasional refractory condition.

This non erythropoietin (Epo) product will raise hemoglobin levels and decrease the need for transfusions.

Doubles survival BUT "comparator" arm is best supportive care. See http://investor.poniard.com/ReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=306218

Thalidomide literally started the improved outlook in MM along with, and followed by Velcade, Revlimid and Stem Cell transplants. To now have increased access in Europe should open up that market eventhough the other agents are in widespread use (I think)

A major insurer (Wellpoint) is using the guidelines of the FDA to restrict erythropoietin (Epo) use.

Xeloda has time after time demonstrated to be as good if not better than 5FU Xeloda continues to lag behind 5FU in the US Recent trial results are not likely to change things overnight

Xeloda, an oral agent, was non-inferior to infusional 5-FU, when combined ith oxaliplatin in a randomized trial in patients with metastatic colrectal cancer (m-CRC) In fact, Xeloda containing regimen was assocaited with less myelosuppression, but more rashes and diaarhea. This is good news for...

In MCRC FOLFOX which involves infusional 5FU has been the cornerstone of therapy. This study shows that an oral 5FU substitute, Xeloda, can replace the IV 5FU and expedide care and avoid cumbersome infusions.

Lilly will likely get front line approval for Alimta in non small cell lung cancer Most patients with advanced disease never see a response to therapy

"ASA404 is a Tumor-Vascular Disrupting Agent (Tumor-VDA) that selectively causes the collapse of existing tumor blood supply leading to extensive tumor cell death." It is being combined with Taxol and carboplatin in a randomized phase III study.