Astellas has tried to build oncology knowhow in the past six years, and while licensed compounds approach approval, Phase II in-house compounds may show whether it can be a global leader.

The dealmaking column is a survey of recent transactions, including strategic alliances, mergers & acquisitions, and financings, in the life sciences industries. Deals are listed by the following industry sectors: in vitro diagnostics, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and research/analytical instrumentation and reagents. All transactions are excerpted from Windhover's Strategic Transactions Database, providing comprehensive transaction coverage from 1991 to the present.

A roundup of recent medtech strategic alliances, mergers & acquisitions and financings.