Roche (SIX: RO, ROG; OTCQX: RHHBY) announced results from a Phase II clinical study of RG7204 (PLX4032), an investigational first-in-class molecule designed to selectively inhibit a cancer-causing, mutated form of the BRAF protein found in approximately half of metastatic melanoma tumors.

Genzyme Corp. (NASDAQ: GENZ) has responded to a letter sent earlier by Sanofi-Aventis relating to its unsolicited tender offer. Genzyme's response reiterates the unanimous view of its board of directors that the $69-per-share offer price is not an appropriate starting point for discussions because it dramatically undervalues the company.

Sanofi-aventis (EURONEXT: SAN and NYSE: SNY) has sent a letter to Genzyme Corporation (NASDAQ: GENZ) requesting that Genzyme clarify its position on a number of potential Board actions raised in Genzyme's Schedule 14D-9.

Abbott (NYSE: ABT) was once again included on both the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index and North America Index, following the reassessment of 2010 scores announced by Dow Jones Indexes and SAM. This is the sixth consecutive year that Abbott has been named to both Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes (DJSI).

The Bayer Group plans to greatly strengthen the "Bayer" umbrella brand and steadily reduce the number of its other corporate brands.

AstraZeneca and Bristol-Myers Squibb Company announced that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved KOMBIGLYZE™ XR for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in adults.

Amgen Inc. (Nasdaq: AMGN), Pfizer Inc. (NYSE: PFE) and world-class professional golfer Phil Mickelson, have entered into a partnership to share Phil's experience with his diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis and treatment with Enbrel(R) (etanercept), and to encourage patients with similar symptoms to visit their doctor for proper assessment and care.