Cancer
> Gold nanorods that assemble themselves respond to a light trigger and deliver drug and a blast of heat right to cancer cells in a two-for-one attack. Article
> Australian researchers have created a nanoparticle that could mean oral delivery of the cancer drug 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), getting treatment to the gut for colorectal cancer. Article
Rheumatoid arthritis
> Antares Pharma ($ATRS) has submitted an NDA to the FDA for Otrexup for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. Otrexup delivers methotrexate under the skin using Medi-Jet technology. Press release
Drug delivery systems
> Researchers from Northern Ireland are developing microneedle arrays from hydrogels. Abstract
> Teva Pharmaceutical Industries ($TEVA) has dropped $300 million plans for a warehouse and IT center in Philadelphia and is focusing its plans on drug delivery of older products. Article
> University of Houston researchers are developing a system to deliver lifesaving drugs and fluids on the battlefield after traumatic injury. Press release
Licensing and patent news
> Cosmo Pharmaceuticals has signed an agreement to develop oral extended-release versions of AIMM Therapeutics' monoclonal antibodies, using its MMX technology. Press release
> Aphios has received notification of allowance in the U.S. for a patent for its oral microsphere and nanosphere insulin-delivery systems. Press release
> Under the terms of an agreement with Titan Pharmaceuticals ($TTNP), Braeburn Pharmaceuticals has gained U.S. and Canadian rights to the investigational product Probuphine, a subdermal delivery system for buprenorphine in opioid dependence. Press release
And Finally… A microactuator that flexes like a finger could pump drugs. Article | Press release