AstraZeneca announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire ZS Pharma (NASDAQ: ZSPH), a biopharmaceutical company based in San Mateo, California. ZS Pharma uses its proprietary ion­-trap technology to develop novel treatments for hyperkalaemia (high potassium levels), a serious condition of elevated potassium in the bloodstream, typically associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and chronic heart failure (CHF).

Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ) today announced a definitive agreement to acquire Novira Therapeutics, Inc., a privately held, clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing novel therapies for curative treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. The acquisition includes Novira's portfolio of novel antivirals, including its lead candidate, NVR 3-778.

Sanofi and BioNTech A.G. today announced that they have entered into a multiyear exclusive collaboration and license agreement. This research collaboration between Sanofi and BioNTech will leverage the scientific expertise of the two organizations to discover and develop up to five cancer immunotherapies, each consisting of a mixture of synthetic messenger RNAs (mRNAs).

Novo Nordisk today announced that a research collaboration has been initiated with Dr Michael Schwartz, director of The Diabetes and Obesity Center of Excellence at UW Medicine. The collaboration aims to understand factors mediating brain control of blood glucose and appetite with the ultimate goal of developing new therapeutic agents for the treatment of diabetes and obesity.

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY) and Cardioxyl Pharmaceuticals, Inc. announced today that the companies have signed a definitive agreement under which Bristol-Myers Squibb will acquire all of the issued and outstanding capital stock of Cardioxyl, a private biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of novel therapeutic agents for the treatment of cardiovascular disease.

The journal Science has recognized Abbott (NYSE: ABT) as a Top 20 Employer. The global healthcare company ranked No. 14 overall, receiving high marks for social responsibility, employee loyalty, and having a work culture that aligns with the values of its employees.

Allergan plc today confirmed that it has been approached by Pfizer Inc. and is in preliminary friendly discussions regarding a potential business combination transaction. Allergan stated that no agreement has been reached and there can be no certainty that these discussions will lead to a transaction, or as to the terms on which a transaction, if any, might be agreed.