Replies to post #35081 on Biotech Values

[DewDiligence]

> IDIX – How do you see the HGSI / NVS collaboration (phase 3 start)
vis-à-vis development of NM283?<

Albuferon, as a replacement for interferon, is complementary to direct viral inhibitors such as NM283 in the treatment of HCV. In fact, HGSI executives went out of their way on their recent R&D webcast to praise VX-950 and NM283 and state that the success of these drugs will increase the addressable market for Albuferon by making more individuals with chronic HCV seek treatment.

>how many potential $500M collaborations (given milestones) can NVS realistically afford to enter?<

A lot.

>Certainly NVS is doing more than spinning the wheel of fortune for potential drug winners in HCV treatment.<

NVS does have the HCV arena coming and going with the exception of a high-profile protease inhibitor.

Why is NVS so bullish on drugs for HCV? One reason may be that they have the Chiron HCV mouse (#msg-13621854) in their sole possession. A more likely reason is that they consider HCV one of the biggest unmet medical needs in the world today. Regards, Dew