Biotech Values

[ghmm]

VRTX:

At the Bear Stearns Conference Today Vertex interestingly had their 950 Program lead as the main presenter (John Randle, PHD). They did mention their other products but about 90% of the presentation and 100% of the Q&A was on 950.

Don't know if its new but they pointed out the rash seems to start to occur between 4 and 8 weeks. Said some physicians characterize it as the same as the ribavirin rash and others say no its distinguishable. Don't know yet the mechanism of how its occurring. Median 62 days for those discontinuing/delaying treatment (if I heard right).

Other items I caught on the call
. Waiting for Prove 1 and 2 data but will start discussions with FDA mid year with objective of starting Phase 3 by end of year.
. Anticipation for total duration of therapy based on initial results (from EASL) that 24 weeks is a good target (for now).
. Will shortened therapy be enough with same SVR? Think will get both shorter treatment and higher SVR. From October Advisory board meeting SVR is key. Raising SVR is most important.