Abbott (NYSE: ABT) announced positive results from a Phase 2 dose-ranging study of atrasentan, a highly selective endothelin A receptor antagonist in development to help slow chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression in patients with type 2 diabetic nephropathy (diabetic kidney disease).

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (NYSE: BMY) and Pfizer (NYSE: PFE) reported that the companies have discontinued the Phase 3 APPRAISE-2 clinical trial in patients with recent Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) treated with apixaban or placebo in addition to mono or dual antiplatelet therapy.

Novartis presented a strategic overview of the company's diversified healthcare portfolio which creates the potential for future sustainable growth. The company's focused healthcare portfolio across key growth segments in healthcare provides Novartis a leading position in the respective market segments.

Genzyme Corporation (Nasdaq: GENZ) announced that it has entered into an asset purchase agreement under which Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd. will acquire Genzyme's Diagnostic products business for $265 million in cash.

Pfizer Inc. (NYSE: PFE) announced the establishment of the Global Centers for Therapeutic Innovation, an entrepreneurial network of partnerships with leading academic medical centers to transform research and development by accessing leading translational researchers.

Roche disclosed the measures it plans to take as part of its Group-wide Operational Excellence Program, announced in September. The initiative is a response to mounting cost pressures in healthcare - particularly in the US and Europe - and to increasing hurdles for the approval and pricing of new medicines.

Boehringer Ingelheim employees across the globe were called to action in support of this year's World Diabetes Day. Equipped with pedometers for a week, each step taken by employees was counted and converted into a contribution of 15.000 Euros in support of the International Diabetes Federation's (IDF) "Life for a Child" Programme.