-- The NEW Official Alizyme Thread! --

Dec spreadbets close today, explaining at least some of the downward pressure in the sector today.

In addition I notice in the latest edition of Biocentury (THE global biotechnology/pharma industry weekly newsletter) that Richard Palmer has said after the recent PhII results that (i) they intend to get an SPA for Cetilistat for PhIII; (ii) they intend to begin enrollment into Phase III in H2 2006; (iii) that they do not intend to do this without a partner; and (iv) AZM expects to close such a partnership deal soon. There was a full page article on cetillistat PhII results saying how much better it was side effects wise than Xenical, but with at least as good efficacy. Stuff we know already, but good to see it being advertised to the Industry in such a high profile, widely distributed, and highly respected industry newsletter.

Takeda will also have seen the full data, and should be announcing their Phase I study results soon. It will not surprise me if (i) Takeda don't now go straight into Phase III in Japan; or (ii) bid for the worldwide rights for which competition would be expected now to be very stiff. Alternatively such a bidding war could easily lead to an approach for the entire company, which I would expect would be in the £3-£5 sp range.

Whatever is the case, there are now multiple statements from RP in the public domain that he expects to partner cetillistat soon, before initiating PhIII. RP does not make statements of this sort lightly, and has never previously so strongly indicated a deal is in the offing, for any of AZMs drugs.