California-based Affymetrix ($AFFY) and Bio-Genesys Diagnostics of the U.K. announced on January 12 that they have formed a partnership to offer genotyping services to professional farmers. Bio-Genesys currently offers genetic testing aimed at improving the breeding of cattle, goats, sheep and other animals. The two companies co-developed a breeding array that's now sold in Europe, according to the press release announcing the new deal. Under the agreement, all of Bio-Genesys' services will be run on Affymetrix technology. Financial details were not disclosed. Release
> Anatara Lifesciences announced it has signed an evaluation and license option agreement with Zoetis ($ZTS) for Detach, its nonantibiotic product used to control infections in food animals. Release
> Phibro Animal Health ($PAHC) announced that it has acquired the assets of MVP Laboratories, a Nebraska maker of livestock vaccines. Release
> A report from Research and Markets predicts that the global market for companion animal diagnostics will grow 8.9% a year for the next 5 years and be worth $1.55 billion by 2020. Release
> The Kansas City Animal Health Corridor announced that it is now taking applications for the seventh annual KC Animal Health Investment Forum. Website
> A case of low-pathogenic avian flu, H5N1, was found on a farm in Scotland and confirmed to be different from other strains of the virus that have appeared in Europe. Release
> A study of wild sheep led by the University of Edinburgh has determined that high levels of Vitamin D may be linked to improved fertility. Release
> State officials in Washington announced that the pathogenic form of canine influenza that sickened dogs in 25 states last year, H3N2, may have affected dogs staying in a kennel in the area. Article
> Private equity firm the Halifax Group announced that its portfolio company NPC Guardian Holdings will sell its interest in Nutrition Physiology Holdings and Guardian Food Technologies to Chr. Hansen Group at a valuation of $185 million. Release