<<<VEGF-Trap may still make it in AMD, but REGN and Aventis may have to switch to an intravitreal injection to obtain any meaningful efficacy, and this would likely render the product a late-to-market knock-off of Lucentis.>>>>
A knock off unless results are significantly better. There's certainly room for improvement. (not saying I expect that with vegf trap)
As far as I know, ave/regn is testing both i.v. and intravitreal. Makes sense to hedge their bets.
As far as MRK don't forget they have an existing relationship with Alnylam. Could be a prelude to an eventual tech munch.