Pfizer Inc. (NYSE: PFE) and the Russian pharmaceutical investment and R&D group ChemRar High Tech Center (ChemRar) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore a collaboration focused on research, development and commercialization of innovative drugs in Russia and other countries.

Bayer HealthCare is working with the Ludwig Boltzmann Institute (LBI) for Lung Vascular Research in the research area of lung vascular diseases - especially pulmonary hypertension.

AstraZeneca and PTC Therapeutics, Inc. (PTC) have entered into an exclusive research collaboration and license agreement for the application of PTC's proprietary GEMS™ technology (Gene Expression Modulation by Small-molecules) for the discovery and development of potential new therapies for cancer and other diseases for which there is a great unmet medical need.

Pfizer Inc. announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has accepted Pfizer's filing for standard review of axitinib for patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (NYSE: BMY) announced a new agreement to expand access to Reyataz® (atazanavir sulfate). The immunity-from-suit agreement signed with Matrix Laboratories Limited, a Mylan Company, enables the generic company to manufacture and sell atazanavir, as well as stavudine and didanosine, in sub-Saharan Africa and India.

Ultra-long-acting insulin degludec, under development by Novo Nordisk, lowers blood glucose levels with significantly reduced rates of hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) compared to insulin glargine, according to data presented at the 71st Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association (ADA) in San Diego.

The Bristol-Myers Squibb Foundation awarded five grants totaling $1.5 million to organizations that will empower African American women with type 2 diabetes to better manage their disease while also leveraging their standing as leaders in their families and communities to influence the health of those around them.